For so long metal roofing has been associated with a zinc sheet tacked to shed roofs or as a fancy finish on architect-designed house. Metal roofing has come a long way and there are now some terrific options available.
Forms of Metal Roofing Materials
The type of metal for your roof is a major consideration with regards to look and cost. One of the more affordable options available is Aluminum and is good value for money because of its durability and longevity whilst Galvanized steel has a proven long life.
Zinc is always a choice and is a lot more attractive compared to the shed roof sheet but additionally, there are some different choices to believe on including copper and stainless. Metal Shake is a style that has the look of authentic wood which comes in various finishes and is naturally more durable than the wood it is mimicking. Metals with a faux stone finish are also available.
For those who have environmental concerns you can find roofing options created from so called natural metals which develop a patina with age and naturally blend to their surroundings and are 100% recyclable.
Styles
As well as the selection of metals available, there are many style options for your new metal roof. No longer restricted to corrugated sheets, there is a whole range of various kinds of metal panelling – ribbed, plain, snap locking and these usually come with the choice of visible or invisible fixing.
As well as panels also to complement the full selection of metals and the colours and finishes that these metals now present, there are tiles and shingles with a whole slew of designs to provide your house with traditional or contemporary look. If you prefer a house with a roof that looks like it is manufactured from Spanish tile or welsh grey slate, with a metal roof you might have it.
The Benefits
As well as giving your house a brilliant look, there are plenty of practical advantages to metal roofs. Straight off, metal roofs are quick and easy to install particularly if panels are used. They are also a lot lighter than conventional roofs being up to seven times less weighty per square metre than roof tiles. This makes metal roofs especially ideal for fragile buildings.
The other benefits are:
Longevity and durability
Metal roofing doesn’t crack or rot and it doesn’t warp or curl. Neither panels or shingles split or break, they don’t really break or burn nor will be the finishes prone to peeling. Metal roofing is also the most resistant to freezing and thawing, snow, hail, wind and fire.
Low maintenance costs
Other than maybe the casual brushing down if leaves stick there is no maintenance required. Should you have painted on the metal roofing’s natural finish that may require caring for or replacing in a similar way as any other painted surface.
Long term warranties
Thanks to the longevity and durability of the materials used in metal roofing, manufacturers and installers are pleased to provide lengthy warranties and guarantees.
Efficiency
Metal roofs save you money with reduced cooling and heating costs and some materials have been shown to present costs savings of 40% in comparison to conventional roofs.
Increased resale value
The use of metal implies that no future delipidation factor needs to be built in for the roof and audience know they never have to think about a new roof in the house’s lifetime.
Increased aesthetic appeal and curb value
With a range of style options, a metal roof perfectly complements any kind of home and fits with any neighbourhood. They are also ideal for historic buildings that want replacement roofs as they may bring the building right up to date whilst retaining the original look.
Environmentally friendly
As well as being energy efficient within their production, saving energy when in use, metals found in roofing are completely 100% recyclable and do not add to landfill sites.
Ease of energy-efficient shingles can be laid over a preexisting roof without the need to eliminate the shingles or tiles which are already there. This will lessen the cost of a new roof installation and save in plenty of mess having to be solved before the job can begin proper.