Reasons To Choose Metal For Your Next Roof
Posted on: 6 December 2016
When it is time to choose roofing materials for a newly constructed home or to replace the roof on an existing residence, it may be time to consider a metal roof. With several benefits and style options, you may find it is the appropriate choice for your residential needs.
Temperature Regulation
One of the main benefits of metal roofs is that they can be useful to aid in temperature regulation or to reduce the accumulation of frozen precipitation. If you live in a climate with extreme temperatures, either hot or cold, metal roofs can have benefits, depending on their finish. For hot climates, your goal is to reduce heat gain from direct sunlight, which can increase your cooling costs. A metal roof with a reflective surface will reduce the amount of solar energy absorbed by the roof and allow it to be reflected back into the atmosphere.
In an especially cold environment, you may want a metal roof with a less reflective surface. Since metal is a good conductor of heat, you want more solar energy to be absorbed by your roof to reduce heating costs. The matte surface of some metals will reduce reflection, allowing more heat to be absorbed. Matte metals can benefit you if you live in an area with large amounts of frozen precipitation. Thick ice and snow accumulation on the roof can lead to structural damage or cause serious injury if large sheets fall from the roof. To reduce this problem, a metal roof can reduce accumulation when frozen precipitation begins and help it melt faster by harnessing heat from the sun.
Versatile Designs
The mental image of the classic metal roof can be off-putting because it may clash with your home or be considered unsightly when compared to the surrounding homes. Fortunately, you can usually find various options for metal roofs that fit most any style or need. One of the most versatile options is a roof made from metal shingles. Each shingle is molded to resemble other roofing materials, such as wood or slate. These metal shingles are created through a process that adds a finishing layer to create a realistic texture that is undetectable without close inspection.
In some cases, a traditional metal roof may be important to the overall style of your home. These roofs are typically comprised of large metal sheets with distinct ribbing. However, there is still versatility available when choosing roofing made from metal sheets. Depending on the specific type of metal, painting the roof to coordinate with the home is an option.
Numerous Metal Options
The types of metal you choose for your roof may depend on the required upkeep for your roof and the overall look you want to achieve. A popular option is stainless steel because rust is not a concern and it does not need to be painted. Stainless steel will also change over time and acquire a matte, weathered look, which can add character to your home. Metal alloys are also an option. Using a metal alloy can provide the right balance between durability and aesthetics. For a unique approach to metal roofs, copper can stand out among the crowd. Eventually, the shiny copper texture will turn green with age and weathering. Other options include lead and zinc, which are also durable choices.
When considering the type of metal for your roof, you should factor in your typical weather conditions. For areas where hail damage is a common concern, a roof that is more malleable, such as copper, is more likely to sustain small dents. Although the average hail storm is unlikely to affect the integrity of your roof, you might prefer a material that is more resistant to impact.
Metal roofs are an ideal choice if you want a roof that works to help reduce energy costs while adding aesthetic value. With many styles for metal roofs, there are usually options to fit almost any residence. For more information on your metal roofing options, check out websites like http://www.premiumpanels.com.
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