Metal roofing is becoming a popular option for modern homeowners. A metal roof requires little maintenance and can protect your home against the elements while helping to minimize your energy costs.
If you are thinking of replacing your existing roof with a metal one, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. Take the time to learn about some of the factors that define a quality metal roof so that you will be prepared to invest in the best roof for your home in the future.
1. Type of Metal
Many types of metal are used in the manufacturing of metal roofing components. Some of the more common metals you will encounter as you shop around for a metal roof include galvanized steel, galvalume steel, aluminum, and copper.
Each of these metals offers unique design and performance benefits. You will need to evaluate your home’s individual needs before you select the metal that will be used to cover your roof.
Homes in coastal climates benefit from the non-corrosive properties of aluminum roofs. Homes in areas that get a lot of wind or hail can benefit from the strength of a steel roof.
Your contractor will be able to help you determine which type of metal would make the best roof for your home.
2. Protective Coatings
Metal roofing materials are often finished with a protective coating. The type of coating that you select can impact the long-term performance and beauty of your metal roof.
Most residential metal roofing panels are treated with an anti-corrosive coating by the manufacturer. A layer of protective paint is then applied over the anti-corrosive coating. Paint coatings add another layer of protection against possible weather damage.
Most of the paint coatings found on residential metal roofing panels are based on compounds including polyester, acrylic and fluorocarbon. These compounds allow the paint coating to maintain its color when exposed to direct sunlight, ensuring that your home’s exterior will retain its aesthetic appeal over time.
Maintenance coatings can be applied throughout the life of a metal roof to provide ongoing protection against corrosion and fading.
3. Proper Installation
You will only be able to take advantage of the benefits a metal roof provides if your new roof is installed properly. Roofing contractors must have the right knowledge and skill to properly install metal roofing.
An experienced contractor will use a waterproof underlayment to protect your roof deck against potential damage.
Slip sheets will then be applied between the underlayment and each metal roofing panel. These slip sheets give metal panels the space they need to expand and contract as outdoor temperatures fluctuate.
An electric seamer will then be used to create a waterproof seal between each of the metal panels on your home’s roof. If a contractor fails to follow these installation practices, you could experience problems with your metal roof leaking, corroding, and failing over time.
4. Warranty
A comprehensive warranty is another factor that helps to define a quality metal roof.
There are two types of warranties that you must consider when discussing metal roofing. The first is a warranty offered by the manufacturer of the metal roof panels. The second is a warranty offered by your roofing contractor.
A manufacturer’s warranty will provide financial assistance in the event that any of your metal roof panels fail due to design or production flaws.
The warranty offered by your roofing contractor covers all of the labor and installation work provided when replacing a roof. If your metal roof fails because of poor installation, your contractor will help offset your financial losses.
Contact Rays Hartford Home Improvement Contractors, Inc., if you are ready to install a quality metal roof on your home.
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Metal roofing is becoming a popular option for modern homeowners. A metal roof requires little maintenance and can protect your home against the elements while helping to minimize your energy costs.
If you are thinking of replacing your existing roof with a metal one, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. Take the time to learn about some of the factors that define a quality metal roof so that you will be prepared to invest in the best roof for your home in the future.
