Whether you’re replacing an old roof or building your new home, you have many choices in terms of roofing material. Metal Roofing Kalispell offers a beautiful style, long lifespan, and energy efficiency.
It also reflects sunlight, which lowers your summer energy cost. However, there are some things you should keep in mind when considering this type of roof.
Metal roofing is a top choice for homeowners and commercial property managers looking to safeguard buildings with long-lasting, energy efficient protection. Choosing this type of roof for re-roofing or new construction projects brings a host of benefits, including improved energy efficiency, durability and design versatility. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of this popular construction material to determine if it is the right fit for your building.
Durability is the number one reason that homeowners opt for metal roofing, and it’s easy to see why. Metal roofs typically have lifespans ranging from 40 to 70 years, and they often come with a 30- to 50-year manufacturer’s warranty. In comparison, conventional asphalt shingles tend to last only 15 to 30 years.
A durable metal roof can withstand harsh weather conditions such as heavy rain and high winds without losing its integrity. Depending on the region, this type of roof is also resistant to snow, ice, and UV radiation. The longevity of a metal roof is greatly affected by local weather conditions, proper maintenance, and protective paint finishes.
Metal roofs also reflect sunlight rather than absorbing it, which reduces the amount of work that air conditioning systems need to do to cool buildings. This reduced energy consumption can help lower monthly energy bills for both residential and commercial properties.
Unlike asphalt shingles, which require frequent replacement, many metal roofs can be repaired or even completely replaced without the need to tear off the existing roof structure. This feature allows for greater flexibility when it comes to a home or business’s design aesthetic and allows for a more affordable way to make a significant upgrade.
Another advantage of choosing a metal roof is its resistance to fire and corrosion. The materials used to construct a metal roof are fire-resistant, and the paint coatings are designed to resist damage from flames and heat. In addition, the rust-resistant finish helps to protect against structural damage caused by acid rain and other environmental contaminants.
Lastly, metal roofs don’t attract lightning as much as asphalt shingle roofs do. Lightning seeks a path to ground, but the individual panels of a metal roof are isolated from each other and do not offer an obvious pathway to the ground. This fact, combined with proper installation and maintenance, significantly reduces the likelihood of damage from lightning strikes.
Energy Efficiency
Metal roofs can be finished with a reflective coating to help cut energy costs. This reflective coating works to reflect heat from the sun, which helps reduce cooling costs for buildings. This can save homeowners and commercial property owners a significant amount of money each year on utility bills.
Another way that a homeowner or business owner can maximize the energy efficiency of their new metal roofing is by choosing a lighter color. Lighter colored metals are able to reflect more of the sun’s heat, which will boost energy savings even more.
When a metal roof is installed, it’s important to use only high-quality materials. This ensures that the structure is safe and protected from the elements. It also makes sure that the roof is properly fitted to the building, which will prevent leaks and other issues.
A qualified roofing professional will ensure that the ridge vent and other components are properly installed and sealed. This will minimize energy loss and allow the occupants to enjoy maximum comfort and efficiency in the building’s interior.
One thing that is often overlooked when evaluating the energy efficiency of a metal roof is the quality of its insulation. Without proper insulation, a metal roof can act as a conduit for transfer of heat or cold, which can increase energy consumption and lead to higher utility bills. In addition, poor insulation can result in temperature imbalances, making some areas of the building uncomfortable for occupants.
Many residential and commercial structures have shingle roofs. If the structure is being renovated, a metal roof may be installed without having to remove the existing shingles. This can provide a great cost savings and reduce the time needed to complete the project.
When choosing a metal roof, homeowners or business owners should consider the style that best suits their architectural design and personal aesthetic. Many styles of metal roofing are available, so it’s easy to find a look that complements the property and adds curb appeal. A sleek, modern metal roof can elevate the visual appeal of a home or business and boost its value.
Recyclability
Unlike asphalt shingles, metal roofing is fully recyclable at the end of its life. This helps support sustainable building practices and minimizes landfill waste. When recycled, metal roof panels can be used to make new steel construction materials such as siding and walls, or other products like cars, appliances and furniture.
In fact, metal roofing is made with more recycled materials than any other type of roofing. Most of the recycled metal in a new metal roof or wall panel was once an old car, clothes washer or soup can in its previous life. When a metal roofing or wall panel’s service life ends, it is sent to a recycling facility where it is melted down and incorporated into other metal products. This reduces the need for raw materials that would otherwise have to be mined from the earth.
Metal roofs and walls also reflect heat from the sun, making them energy efficient. This translates into cost savings for homeowners on their energy bills. In addition, they can be coated with reflective coatings to further decrease energy consumption. Metal is also fire-resistant, making it a safer choice in areas with wildfire or lightning risks. It is also impervious to rot, mold and pests, reducing the need for costly pest control services.
Despite their initial higher costs, metal roofs and walls pay for themselves over time due to reduced maintenance demands. They last for decades, eliminating the need for repeated replacements of shingle roofs and other traditional roofing materials. In addition, many homeowners choose to use their metal roofs as a catchment surface for rainwater harvesting systems, which reduce the need for fresh water sources and help to improve local groundwater supplies.
The longevity, energy efficiency and recyclability of metal roof and wall panels make them the smart sustainable option for today’s homebuyers. Many find that their one-time investment is well worth the long-term cost savings, energy savings and environmental benefits they provide. Besides helping to save on energy bills and reduce landfill waste, a metal roof can even increase the resale value of your home. Contact a professional roofing company that specializes in residential metal roofing to learn more about the many options available for your next project.
Installation
Installing a metal roof requires significant planning and preparation. The best way to ensure that the process goes smoothly is to have a professional contractor handle it. They’ll be able to assess the project and provide you with a detailed installation plan. In addition, they’ll have access to proper tools and equipment to get the job done right. Some of the key tools needed include a chalk line, aviation snips, and a riveter. They may also need a generator to power their cutting and fastening tools. If you want to avoid tripping breakers all day, set up a separate outlet just for the contractors’ use.
Another thing to keep in mind is the material type. Different metal roofing materials have different needs when it comes to installation. For example, steel is a great choice for metal roofing because it is strong and durable. However, it’s important to consider the climate in your area before selecting a specific metal roofing material. For instance, hail can ruin an asphalt shingle roof, while it will likely leave a metal roof undamaged.
Metal roofing is highly customizable and can be used to enhance the beauty of any home. There are a variety of different options for color, texture, and finish. Additionally, metal roofs can be incorporated with gutter systems to protect the foundation of your home from water damage.
Choosing the right roof for your home is an important decision that will have a big impact on its lifespan and performance. Make sure to do your research and choose a quality contractor who will follow the manufacturer’s recommended details. It’s also a good idea to ask for referrals from friends and neighbors who have recently had a metal roof installed on their homes.
A properly installed metal roof can reduce energy costs, increase the value of your home, and reduce maintenance expenses. However, a poorly installed roof can lead to leaks and damage to other parts of the structure. This can be particularly problematic for commercial buildings, where the integrity of the roof is critical to the business’s operation.