Metal Roofing Materials
Most people talk about metal roofing like the entire category can be summed up at once. They speak about metal roofing compared to conventional roofing as one category versus another. Speaking of anything in such general terms does an injustice to the many nuances prevalent in the field. In terms of metal roofing materials, many distinct choices exists, each with their strengths and weaknesses. Learning about each will help you choose which metal roofing material is the best choice for your house.
Copper is one material which has been used for roofing for centuries. This classic choice is easily tooled into whatever form you want because the copper is naturally soft. Over time, the copper will naturally adopt a verdigris coating. This means that it doesn’t require any kind of finish, removing any maintenance required to combat scratches or peeling. Copper roofing is an exquisite choice who’s only drawback is price.
Steel Roofing
Steel is a great choice for a metal roof because of its characteristic high strength and durability. It’s cheaper than copper, which helps reduce sticker shock. Generally, steel roofing is coated to increase its corrosion resistance and desirability. The coating is typically zinc based, but often a zinc-aluminum blend. Because of steel’s strength, it has a huge range of potential applications. It shines where many lesser materials fail. The steel can be finished in any style you desire, as well.
Aluminum Roofing
Aluminum is another excellent choice for metal roofing materials. While it definitely needs a shiny finish in order to look acceptable, it’s rust resistance is top notch. This is because aluminum naturally forms a rust-resistant layer on its surface. To enhance this, the aluminum is coated similarly to steel roofing. Aluminum roofing is exceptionally lightweight and sturdy, meaning it typically doesn’t require the reinforcement that other heavier materials need. This material shines in salty coastal areas with its high corrosion resistance in extreme conditions. Aluminum’s malleability means that it can be bent into all sorts of elaborate shapes to help your aesthetic tastes. And if you’re still unconvinced, consider that aluminum shingles are 100% recyclable. This means less of an impact on the earth, and a boon to future generations. For beauty, strength, and longevity, aluminum is truly a remarkable material.
Metal Roof Materials
There’s a whole lot of variety out there, so take the time to really consider your individual needs before making a final decision. The values of metal roofing materials are out there for you to grab hold of!
Metal Roofing Myths and Truths
Metal roofing is an established practice, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t a long list of myths about them. From perceived safety hazards to exaggerations, to just plain untruths, the list is quite encompassing. Dispelling these myths will help you realize just how great metal roofing materials are.
Excessive Noise
The myth goes that metal roofs are undesirable because they are really noisy, especially when it’s raining outside. This probably comes from the perception of an old tin-roofed barn someplace, but it’s definitely not true. The only way that metal roofing materials would cause greater noise than other materials is if they were improperly installed. In face, metal roofing is typically less noisy than asphalt shingle. Make sure your roof is installed with solid sheathing to effectively silence noise from all sorts of bad weather.
They Rust, Don’t They?
This is another myth likely started by a tin roofed barn out in the country. Modern metal roofing materials will not rust. That’s because they have a coating of zinc or aluminum which prevents air from reacting with and corroding the metal. This coating is generally bonded to the roofing material directly at the factory, so there’s no chance of it falling off. So why don’t you see this coating? Simply because a layer of paint is applied on top. Metal roof paint provides the home owner with a nice look while providing yet another rust resistant layer.
Metal Roofs Have Poor Durability
If your roof is made of metal, then anything which impacts it is going to leave a dent or a ding, right? I mean, that’s just common sense, isn’t it? The answer is no - not with modern metal roofing materials. These have been engineered to withstand literally decades of heavy abuse from snow, hail, wind, you name it. A storm more powerful than an F2 tornado is required before your roof will take any damage.
Don’t Walk On The Roof!
How this myth started is anyone’s guess. The fact of the matter is that you can walk on any kind of metal roof without causing any damage at all. While it’s a bit trickier than a standard roof, don’t feel intimidated. You should talk with the pros who installed your roof before walking on it to get details on how to do it without injuring yourself or your roof.
Won’t My Metal Roof Attract Lightning?
Lightning likes metal, right? So metal roofs will cause your house to get struck by lightning - all the time. Now this is simply untrue. There have been documented cases of lightning striking trees that were literally right next to metal roofs. If you’re really worried, you can always ground your roof, but there’s no need to worry even if your roof does get struck by lightning. It isn’t going to catch on fire - it’s metal! If anything you should feel more secure under a metal roof. Note that a metal roof will not necessarily save your house if it gets struck by lightning. The experts say that a strike on a metal roof is less damaging than the same on a conventional one, though.
Just the Facts, Ma’am
Make sure you insist on the facts and nothing but the facts when you talk with contractors about metal roofing. You deserve nothing less.