Let’s Talk About Metal Roofs

While we are roofing contractors and will work with any roofing materials a homeowner would like…we are partial to metal roofing. Specifically standing seam metal roofing.

So let’s talk about this durable material and go into why we think it’s best for our area here in Bucks County.

There is no material more capable of protecting a structure from wind, rain, hail, fire, or rot than a durable and energy-efficient metal roof. The initial cost to install may seem high, but a standing-seam metal roof is the least costly roof option over the life of the roof because it is virtually maintenance-free and can last 50 years or more.

Standing Seams

A standing-seam metal roof consists of metal panels running vertically on the roof deck. Each panel has two seams that stand up vertically and are crimped together to seal the joint and keep the elements from penetrating. A standing seam also keeps water from collecting on the surface, causing leakage.

A metal roof is durable, like an iron sentry standing guard over the top of the house. Without a doubt, metal roofs are cheaper in the long run. Many metal roofs will easily outlast any warranties that the company provides.

Warranties up to 50 years are common, but it’s not unusual to find metal roofing that has been in use successfully for 100 years. Copper, galvanized steel, and aluminum (Galvalume is the galvanized version of aluminum) are the three metals most commonly used to build standing-seam or other types of metal roofs. All offer virtually the same durability, aesthetics, and finishes.

Beauty and Durability

Metal roofs once got a bad rap for their bright shiny colors and metallic look, but finishes are now much more compatible with home exteriors. Metal roofs have lost their “barnyard” image and now sport a host of colors, matte finishes, and profiles. Virtually any color is available, the metal can be finished to remove that “high gloss” metallic look, and the end product can be formed to resemble any roofing product from tile to asphalt shingles or cedar shakes. Distressed-look metal roofs have an irregular pattern so that heavy hail storms won’t affect the surface appearance of the roof.

Energy Efficiency and Value

From an appraisal standpoint, metal roofs are so durable and desirable that they add approximately $1.45 per square foot to a home’s overall value. Insurance companies give discounts of up to 35 percent to homes with metal roofs because when properly installed they are virtually impervious to wind, hail, and fire.

Metal roofs are also energy efficient. A metal roof can reflect the sun’s energy and block heat transmission from the roof to building members and living space. Paint manufacturers have also come up with good reflective properties for the coatings so you can reduce your cooling bills in the summer by 25 percent. And always remember properly ventilating the roof is vitally important to its efficiency and lifespan.

Hopefully, this post will get you thinking about a metal roof when it’s time to make your decision. And if you have any questions about this roofing material, give DYMI Construction a call and we’ll give you a rundown on this or any other material you’re thinking of using.