Erie Metal Roofing comes in a wide variety of panel styles and finishes. There are many benefits to choosing a metal roof for your home or building.
Most metal roofing is made of corrosion-resistant materials such as aluminum, zinc, and copper. They can withstand extreme weather and be used in areas that experience heavy snowfalls.
The durability of metal roofing is one of the main reasons people choose it for their new construction or roof replacement projects. It can withstand heavy snow and hail with ease while being less likely to be damaged by fallen tree branches or debris. The slick surface of a metal roof also helps rain and melting snow drain away quickly, reducing the risk of water leaks.
Another factor affecting a metal roof’s longevity is the quality of materials used. High-quality metals like copper and zinc have longer lifespans than lower-grade metals, which can rust in certain climates or dent more easily during storms. Metal roofs also require proper installation to ensure that they last as long as possible.
It’s important to hire experienced professionals to install your metal roof. Poorly-installed roofs can lead to water leaks and premature wear, which can reduce their lifespan. In addition, it’s important to choose a metal roof that is compatible with the climate in your area. For example, some metals are not suitable for coastal regions because they can rust when exposed to salt spray in the air.
Metal roofs are also environmentally friendly because they don’t contain the petroleum products that traditional asphalt shingles do. This reduces the amount of waste that is sent to landfills each year.
If you’re considering a metal roof, be sure to talk with a local professional about the pros and cons of each type of metal. They can help you decide which material is best for your home or business. They can also tell you more about the installation process and how to take care of your metal roof. Also, remember to check with your homeowners association before installing a metal roof because some communities have restrictions on the types of roofing that are allowed. Also, check for any homeowner insurance discounts that you may be eligible for. These can make a metal roof an affordable option for your home. These benefits can add up to significant savings over time. This is especially true if you live in an area with high property taxes.
Energy Efficiency
Metal roofs have high energy efficiency, meaning they keep your home or building cool without consuming a lot of electricity. The main way they do this is by reflecting the sun’s rays instead of absorbing them. They also have low thermal mass, which means they lose heat very quickly once the sun goes down or moves behind a cloud. This keeps your building cool during the day and helps you cut down on heating costs in the winter.
Additionally, many metal roofs have reflective coatings that help them qualify for ENERGY STAR certifications. This helps you save even more on your electric bills. However, it’s important to choose a roof that has this coating and to install it properly. Otherwise, you may experience an issue known as oil canning, which causes a wavy or rippled appearance in flat areas of the roof. It’s usually caused by improper handling or installation and can be avoided by choosing high-quality materials and hiring skilled installers.
Another way that metal roofs are energy efficient is by insulating your building. They are available in a wide range of insulation thicknesses, which can help you reduce your heating and cooling bills. Some metal roofs also have a radiant barrier underlayment that can further reduce your utility costs by reflecting heat back into the atmosphere rather than allowing it to pass through the structure.
The long lifespan of metal roofing is a big reason why people consider it when re-roofing or building new homes. It typically lasts 40 to 70 years and often comes with a manufacturer’s warranty that lasts just as long. This longevity can create significant cost savings in the long run.
In addition, the longevity of metal roofing means it doesn’t need to be replaced as frequently as shingle roofs do. This can save you money in the long run and makes it a good investment for your home or commercial building.
Additionally, most metal roofs are made with recycled materials and can be installed over an existing shingle roof to minimize landfill waste. Plus, they are often able to be used with solar panels for additional sustainability benefits. They’re also less prone to leaks than other roofing types and are resistant to mold, mildew, rodents and raccoons.
Aesthetics
Metal roofing is available in a wide range of styles, shapes and finishes. These options allow you to achieve a traditional, contemporary or industrial look for your structure. Metal roofing panels are also available in a variety of colors, with the option to add a textured coating for added style and visual appeal. In addition, a metal roof can be coated with a Kynar finish that protects against fading, chalking and other color degradation.
The aesthetics of a metal roof are a result of the design and fabrication process. A skilled team can produce a beautiful finished product that enhances the architectural character of any structure. In modern residential construction, metal roofing is a sophisticated choice for homeowners who want to reflect their own unique taste and aesthetics.
Whether you choose standing seam or corrugated panels, a metal roof will enhance the appearance of any home. The standing seam roofing style features raised panels that interlock with hidden fasteners, resulting in a sleek surface that exudes modern sophistication. The hidden fasteners are not merely decorative; they offer additional protection against water intrusion, significantly increasing the longevity of your metal roof.
In addition, a variety of paint systems are available to suit any design palette. Incorporating the right roof color into a building’s overall design theme and architecture increases the cohesiveness of the structure. Furthermore, many paint options, such as reflective coatings, can contribute to the building’s energy efficiency and durability.
Historical buildings present a particular challenge when it comes to aesthetics. While preserving the integrity of a historic building, it is important to ensure that its structural components are updated to meet modern standards. For this reason, metal roofing is often used on historical structures as a way to incorporate a modern, durable roof that respects the historical integrity of the structure.
Homeowners can further enhance the aesthetic of their homes by incorporating custom roofing patterns and innovative design details into their construction plans. These custom roofing options can elevate the visual appeal of a home and make it stand out in the competitive real estate market.
Maintenance
Like any roof system, metal roofing requires maintenance to protect your home or building and retain its beauty. Most homeowners and professional roof maintenance services perform a structural look over twice per year. This allows the roofers to detect potential issues and repair them before they become larger problems. This is a relatively inexpensive way to ensure the integrity of your roof and its ability to enhance the appearance of your property.
During a regular inspection, it’s important to check for loose panel seams. If these are not fixed immediately, they can allow water to enter the building through the roof and cause mold or mildew growth as well as interior damage. Likewise, you should also check to see that the flashing materials are in good condition and sealed properly. Flashing consists of strips of metal installed along the edges and joints of the panels as well as the areas surrounding penetrations such as chimneys, vents, pipes, and skylights.
It’s important to regularly clean your metal roof to remove accumulated debris. This is especially true for homes or buildings located beneath trees, where leaves and branches can get stuck in the valleys of the roof. These clogs can lead to water buildup, which may corrode the metal or create leaks. Cleaning the gutters and drains can help prevent these issues.
While metal roofs are built to be durable, they can still sustain damage from harsh weather conditions and other elements. Inspecting the paint system for scuffs, scratches, flaking, and fading can identify small areas of damage that need to be repaired as soon as possible.
Aside from scuffs and stains, it’s also important to check for cracks in the metal and any signs of leakage. Cracks and leaks should be addressed immediately because they can erode the metal and eventually corrode the fasteners holding the panels in place.
The last thing you want is to have to replace your metal roof before its expected lifespan. Keeping up with the minor repairs and inspections mentioned above can keep your roof functioning optimally for years to come.