Roofs are one of the most essential parts when building house. Only the roof can shield away the sun, protect you from the rain, and cover against everything else. Without a roof, can you call it a home? However, the whole concept of choosing what type of roof you are going to have and where to get it, is not an easy task. If you make decisions without proper knowledge, then you are like going to battle without a weapon or armor. You need to be well equipped with ample knowledge about roofs in order for you to not be overwhelmed.
A metal roof is a type of roof that is growing in popularity nowadays. This kind of roof is different from a normal roof, thus needing more attention. If you are planning to have a metal roof installed in your homes, then this is for you. This article will tackle information about metal roofs for homes, types of metal roofs, and the pros and cons of having a metal roof.
What is a metal roof?
First of all, what is a metal roof? Is it any different from a typical roof? A metal roof is type of roofing system made from metal tiles or pieces. This type of roof is characterized by its high and strong resistance, longevity, durability, and impermeability. Common materials to use in a metal roof are steel alloys, copper, and zinc.
Different coating materials are used on metal tiles to reflect heat, prevent rust, and provide waterproofing. They are made from materials such as epoxy or ceramic.
Ceramic coatings are applied on a metal panel to add heat reflecting properties. This is recommended for environments with really strong heat or if you just want your home to reflect heat as much as possible. Most ceramic coatings are made from regular paint with ceramic beads added.
Types of Metal Roofs
Out of all the different materials to be used to make roofs, metal is highly recognized for both residential and commercial roofing. Metal is lightweight, more durable, and has a low maintenance making it more efficient than other options. There are several types of metal roofs. You can choose a variety of design and style but the choice of material to be used in your metal roof is all up to you. Here are the types of metal roofs for your home.
Steel
Let’s start with steel. Steel has a higher strength quality than most options making it slightly more durable. This is recommended for a home environment with a history of strong hurricanes and high winds. Aside from this, steel is more fire resistant and is also recommended for homes with a colder climate as they can retain heat. If you also like to live green, steel is for you because they are one of the most recycled materials in the world.
There are three types of steel roofing you can choose from:
- Weathering Steel – an outer layer of steel is used
- Galvanized Steel – an outer layer of zinc is used
- Galvalume Steel – an outer layer of both aluminum and zinc combined is used
Copper
This is the most common type of metal roofing. In ideal conditions, copper is a metal that can last over a century, if circumstances are right and good. Copper is softer than most materials and quieter. You have to install a muffler to keep out the sounds of rain or hail. Because it is softer too, copper roofing is more prone to dents and expansion. However, this is not something to bother with proper paneling and shingling. Lastly, copper is one hundred percent recyclable so it is perfect for those who are environmentally conscious.
Aluminum
A lightweight material and more malleable than some, aluminum is more preferred for creative roof designs. Aluminum roofing is also recommended for homes on coastal areas because the material itself is more resistant to corrosion which is caused by moisture and sea salt. Aluminum is also durable because it is able to create a protective sealing barrier when it gets exposed to oxygen, therefore preventing any sort of rusting or oxidation to occur.
Zinc
Aside from its high durability, zinc is malleable as well. Because of its malleability, zinc roofing is able to create elaborate and sophisticated roofing designs. It is also energy efficient since zinc takes less energy to produce than copper or steel. Zinc is also famous for commercial projects.
However, over the course of time, zinc can turn into bluish or greenish color if left unpainted. It also leaves a chalky residue which is not pleasing to look at. Like copper, zinc is a soft material making it prone to dents, but this can be avoided with proper shingling and paneling.