Which Types of Metal Roofing Is Right for You? Your Guide to Metal Roofing Types.
Metal roofing is winning over more homeowners and business owners each year. In fact, to a 2020 Dodge Report, nearly 15% of homeowners replaced their old roofs with metal roofs. A metal roof offers more than the soothing sound of raindrops on a tin roof, a popular sound for meditation and relaxation apps; it also provides a host of structural benefits that catch the attention of more homeowners every year.
Whether you are a residential homeowner in the process of building your dream home, getting ready to replace your old roof, or a business owner trying to replace your commercial roofing system here is everything you need to know about the various kinds of metal roof material, and which one may be right for you.
Why Consider Metal Roofing for Your Home or Commercial Building
If you’re wondering why metal roofs are gaining traction across the country, there are plenty of reasons to consider. At the top of the list is the fact that metal roofs are more durable and long-lasting at protecting your home when compared to traditional asphalt roofing systems.
When properly installed, a metal roof will last as long as the house does. Most metal roof options have an expected roof lifespan of 40 to 70 years, which is exponentially more prolonged than the 12 to 20 years you get from an asphalt roof.
Metal roofs are also more environmentally friendly and recyclable than other options. Roof shingles are made from petroleum. Since three-tab shingles and architectural shingles require replacement every 15 to 20 years, 20 billion pounds of asphalt shingle are sent to U.S. landfills each year. Even if a house is torn down, the metal is recyclable material and can be reused instead of filling a landfill.
Metal roofs also have more energy efficiency than the competition. Thanks to this type of roof’s natural reflective qualities, metal roofing reflects solar radiant heat instead of absorbing it, reducing cooling costs for your home by nearly 25% during the hottest times of the year. You can even find some metal roofing designed with a reflective pigment that minimizes heat gain to ensure your homes AC systems efficiency doesn't decrease or change.
There’s also something to be said about the style a metal roof provides. Modern metal roofing has come a long way from the old tin barns of the past. You can choose from a variety of metals, a plethora of colors, and numerous finishes. Asphalt companies boast 20 different colors of their products.
Metal roofing suppliers have more than 100 different colors to explore, and the most common metals can hold a paint finish. Metal panels can resemble everything from wood shakes to clay tiles to slate, as well as a host of other detailed styles.
On the flip side, metal roofs often have a higher price than traditional asphalt. Both the materials and the installation labor cost a little more, but property owners often recoup the money on the original investment through the longevity of their metal roof.
While most metal roofs can handle extreme weather, it is possible that the metal can be dented by a large piece of hail or branches. Of course, some metals are stronger than others, and any event that can cause damage to a metal roof will most likely damage an asphalt roof as well.
The only complaint metal roofs get is that they can be louder during thunderstorms. Modern metal roofs, however, can be installed with an extra layer of solid sheathing or insulation that minimizes the sounds of falling rain. Considering the use of falling rain in meditation and relaxation treatments, the sound of falling rain might benefit those who enjoy it.
Types of Metal Roofing
You have a few decisions if you are interested in a metal roof for your home. There are a variety of styles and materials that can add strength and style to your home, and each combination offers a series of pros and cons, which means you have to do some homework to make the right choice.
There are two main categories of metal roofing: exposed fasteners and hidden fasteners. These categories essentially describe how the panels are attached to the house and if the seams are visible or not.
Exposed Fasteners
An exposed fastener panel attaches directly to the home or building with screws that run directly through the face of the metal roofing into the wood/metal purlin below. The screws, while not necessarily intrusive, are visible.
The most common form of exposed fastener roofs is called corrugated metal roofing. Corrugated metal panels are made from rolled steel with a wavy or boxy look. A corrugated metal roof is great for home, commercial, or agricultural use. In fact, 29 gauge corrugated metal panels are often called “barn metal” or “pole barn metal.”
Home and business owners love corrugated metal roofing because it is easy to locate, durable, lightweight, manufacture warranties, and affordability. In fact, corrugated metal roofing is comparable in price to standard asphalt shingles, but it comes with more color options and a longer lifespan which adds to its value.
The downside, for some, is that the exposed fastened system doesn’t provide the look or profile they want. There’s also a little more maintenance involved when compared to concealed fastened roofs.
Concealed Fastener
A concealed fastener metal roof uses snaps/clips that attach the roofing panel to the building. With this kind of setup, the screws are not visible. For many homeowners, a hidden fastener roof like standing seam metal roofing offers a more modern and streamlined appearance.
Beyond being a more beautiful roof, a standing seam roof’s concealed fasteners make it a watertight and have more moisture resistance. Once installed, this kind of metal roofing also requires minimal maintenance when compared to exposed fastener metal roofs.
The downside of a concealed fastener roof is that the better looks and higher performance levels mean an increase in expense. This kind of roofing material can cost as much as double the materials used for a corrugated roof. Concealed fastener roofs are also more challenging to install, so this project is not meant for a DIY installer.
Standing Seam vs. Corrugated Roofing
Even after reviewing the pros and cons of exposed and concealed fastener roofs, it is not always easy to determine which roof is right for you
Corrugated roofing is the best option for the following reasons:
● You want to have less money invested in your roofing project
● You prefer wavy-looking roof panels versus a roof with a flat appearance
● You want easier-to-install roofing panels to either lower the cost of installation or to try it yourself
Standing seam roofing is the best option for the following reasons:
● You want the best weather resistance from a metal roof panel or live in an area prone to severe weather
● You prefer to avoid exposed fastened maintenance on your roof
● You prefer a more modern design
● You have a low roof slope condition
● You are willing to spend more for a higher-quality roof solution
How Much Do Metal Roofs Cost?
Various factors impact the overall price of metal roofing. It’s critical to note that the cost of steel/metal is rarely consistent. A massive steel shortage can force prices to increase, while favorable market conditions can bring the price back down. If you’re planning a roofing project a long way down the road, the price you are quoted today for materials may not be the actual price you pay when it’s time to make the purchase and can become and issue resulting in a higher or lower cost.
On average, the typical metal roof costs more than a roof with asphalt shingle roofing. Metal roofing, however, is a broad term; there are economic friendly options and high-end materials that raise the price.
In general, there are a few things roofing contractors consider when putting together a quote:
● The size of the Construction project
● The price of material you choose
● The thickness of the metal panels
● The style, color, and finish
● The removal and repair of your old roof (if necessary)
● The cost of roofing underlayment, accessories, and trim
Corrugated metal roofing is one of the most cost-effective types of metal roofing available. A thinner material could cost as little as $3.00 usd a square foot (material only), while the higher-end, thicker, and fully finished material could run as high as $7.00 usd per square foot.
Standing seam metal roofing generally has a higher price tag and is more valuable but there are still various options. Standing seam metal will cost around $8.00 for the material on the low end, and on the higher end, you might pay up to $14 per square foot.
While you as the customer can locate and purchase some types of metal roofing panels from the manufacturer or a distributor, it’s rarely a wise idea to do so. The manufacturer will not give you information for guidance to measure for you or create a materials list for your project, and you will need to know your exact needs for panels, materials, and trim. A roofing contractor with years of experience installing metal roofing will take care of all of the projects details for you.
Hire a Lafayette, LA, Professional for Your Metal Roofing Needs
When it comes to your metal roofing, you want nothing less than a highly qualified and experienced licensed roofing company. Installing a metal roof is a demanding job that requires technical knowledge, specialized tools, and experience. That’s where Hibbard Roofing and Construction professional knowledge comes into play.
We’re known throughout the Lafayette area for our exceptional customer service, quality workmanship, and premier products. Your roof is more than just another part of your house or business; it is your safe haven.
Call us today to learn more about metal roofing possibilities in your area. We’ll even provide a free estimate to ensure you know all your options and can make the best decision for your needs. Contact us today to get started.
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Lafayette, Breaux Bridge, Youngsville, Broussard, Crowley, Rayne, Abbeville, New Iberia, Carencro, Duson, Scott, Arnaudville, Cade, Cecilia, Henderson, St. Martinville, Jeanerette, Jennings, Eunice, Baldwin, Franklin, Opelousas, Sunset, Grand Coteau, Delcambre, Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, Walker and everywhere in-between.