Metal may not be the most sought-after roofing material in the country, but the last few decades saw its steady increase in demand thanks in large part to the re-roofing industry. Many factors contributed to its surge in popularity, including the severe weather events that occurred in different parts of the United States over the past few years.
Highly versatile, metal is widely used both in residential and commercial roofing applications. If you are thinking of getting a metal roof for your home or business, then keep on reading. Our experts at Your Professional Roofer LLC have you covered on everything about metal roofing.
Metal roofs were first used in the United States in the mid-1800s. They were mostly utilized for barns, warehouses and commercial structures. They were then used in residential roofing but were limited to high-end, architect-designed homes. After decades of increased availability and improved manufacturing processes, metal roofs can now be found in conventional homes of varying architectural styles.
According to recent industry statistics, the past few years saw a roughly 3% annual increase in the market share for metal roofing. Right now, metal roofing materials account for about 15% of all roofing installations. In comparison, asphalt shingles’ market share has seen a decline, with 59% of roof installations using these roofing materials.
Most metal roof installations involve tearing off the existing roof. It is usually the preferred method, but it can get messy and increase roof replacement costs. However, the roofing material can be installed over an asphalt shingle roof as long as local building codes allow it. One problem that might arise from this is moisture getting trapped between the new and old material, which can lead to the growth of mold and rot.
Fortunately, many expert roofers know of ways to prevent this. In addition to using vented roofs, they may also place one-inch-by-three-inch furring strips on the old roof first before installing the new metal roof. Raising the roof a bit creates a ventilating air pocket between it and the old roof. If you are looking to invest in a metal roof, make sure to check with your local building department to learn whether a roof overlay or a tear-off is required.
One of the most common myths surrounding metal roofing systems is that they are too noisy, especially when precipitation falls on them. The truth is that these are no noisier than any other type of roofing material. New metal roof installations involve a solid substrate underneath, with attic insulation providing a sound barrier. From inside your home, you’ll not even notice an increase in the sound levels once the metal roof is installed.
This is arguably the most popular myth about metal roofs. While it is true that the material is an excellent conductor of electricity, the belief of it having a greater chance of being hit by lightning is simply false. Keep in mind that lightning strikes the highest point in a given area no matter the material, which means metal roofs have an equal chance of being struck by it as a tree, telephone pole, or any tall structure.
If they do get hit by lightning, they are less likely to combust compared to other roofing materials like wood shakes or shingles. They are also isolated structural components of a residential or commercial property, which means they don’t have an inherent design in which they have a direct path to the ground. According to a technical bulletin from Metal Roofing Construction, the metal roofs’ associated risk during a lightning event make them one of the most desirable construction materials available.
Metal roofing systems are durable and last longer than many other traditional roofing materials. Aluminum and steel roofs, for instance, have a standard life span of up to 50 years. Copper and zinc roofs, meanwhile, can last more than 100 years. As long as these are properly installed and maintained, owners of residential and commercial properties can enjoy many of the material’s notable qualities.
One of the best things about metal roofs that continues to attract homeowners, business owners and facility managers alike is the fact that it is non-porous, which means it seals out water. Applying a waterproof coating on the material increases its water-shedding capabilities. With a smoother surface, it can shed melted snow and rainfall more easily and effectively than other roofing options. Because of this, it is less likely for mold and mildew to grow and for rot to develop from within. As a result, no insect or pest can make metal roofs their home.
Another proof of metal’s durability is its imperviousness to fires. It boasts a class A fire rating, which means it is the best roof replacement choice in areas that experience wildfires. However, if it is installed with wooden components, the entire roofing system’s fire-resistance rating drops to class C.
Metal roofing is among the best “green” building materials in the market today. It does conduct heat, but it has a cool reflective surface that bounces back heat from the sun to limit what is passed on to your home. As long as the roof is properly insulated, passive heating can be reduced significantly, ensuring consistent levels of indoor comfort while preventing your air conditioning system from working more than it should. This leads to lower energy consumption and better savings.
Also, metal is a recyclable material. Many manufacturers produce metal roofs made from a considerable percentage of recycled metals. Moreover, every piece of metal roof is 100% recyclable and can be reused many times without material degradation. This lessens the amount of trash being dumped in landfills.
Covering your home or business with a metal roof is a great way to boost the structure’s aesthetic appeal and functionality. As with other roofing options, it has a wide array of materials, colors, textures, and profiles to choose from. To help you make the right choice, turn to Your Professional Roofer LLC. We are dedicated to providing quality roofing repair, replacement, and restoration solutions that will keep your family or business safe and protected.
Give us a call today at (636) 866-5660 or fill out our contact form to request an estimate.
Your roof is your home's first line of defense against the elements, but when disaster…
Roof replacement can benefit your home in a number of ways. From greater weather protection…
Roofing systems are typically designed to be impervious to wind and impact damage, but they…
You probably already know that your roofing system is made of a complex layer of…
There are several reasons why asphalt shingles are the most popular roofing material in the…
Water stains are a warning sign there’s a leak in your roof. However, other warning…