Metal Roofs
The first metal roof in the US was installed in 1857 on the US Mint in New Orleans. Long life expectancy, fire resistant and low maintenance made metal roofing systems more attractive. Over the years, several panel profiles and material mix were introduced to the U.S market. However, today, steel and aluminum with different color coatings are the primary components for metal roofing. After asphalt shingles, metal roofing is the second most used roofing material in the remodeling market today and it has close to 20% Market share. At Roofing On Demand, we are able to maintain, and replace metal roofing systems for residential and commercial customers.
Pros of Metal Roofs
- Longevity – A well maintained Metal Roof can last about 50 years (weather contingent).
- Durability – Higher resistance to Hail, Wind, Fire, and harsh marine conditions.
- Energy Efficient – Metal Roof panels can reflect UV and infrared light rays and reduce cooling cost around 20%.
- Safety – In case of lighting strike or wildfire, metal roofs will not ignite.
- Cost – The upfront cost might be double or triple of asphalt shingle but in the long run will be cheaper. Most asphalt shingle roofs average 15-20 years and cost to replace increases year over year.
Cons of Metal Roofs
- Affordability – A full metal roofing system can cost 2 to 3 times that of asphalt shingles but also expect to last 2 or 3 times longer than asphalt shingles.
- Performance – Your roof system performance correlates to quality of installation. Lack of maintenance can cause severe and costly damage to substrate or decking and attic space. Low grade panels (thinner) will be less durable.
- Maintenance – Expansion and contraction of roofing systems and extreme weather conditions, may cause some of the fasteners to backup and cause water intrusion. Also neoprene washers deteriorate over time and fasteners must be replace.
- Noise – Metal panels may be noisier during heavy rain or a hailstorm than asphalt shingles. Noise levels will vary depending on the type of decking, method of installation and how well insulated your attic is.
Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Metal Panels have a male and female legs that are engaged and installed on your roof substrate with clips and fasteners are hidden. This should make the Standing Seam Metal Roofing System maintenance free. Panel Length ranges between 16” to 22” wide. Several options are available for panel interlocking.
Exposed Fastener Systems
Another alternative to Metal Roofing systems is the exposed fastener panels. Panels are fastened to roof decking or substrate using metal screws. Downside to exposed fasteners, in the future screws loosen up, or rubber washer will deteriorate and may lead to water intrusion. Several panel profiles are available including R-Panel, PBR Panel, Max-Rib, Multi-Rib, and U-Panel to name a few. Standard panel width is 36” mainly.