Metal Roofing Materials: The Choices

The Growing Popularity of Metal Roofing

Did you know that according to the National Roofing Contractors Association, metal roofing materials have increased popularity over the past year? Proof of this is the growing number of homeowners who buy this roofing despite the fact that it is expensive compared to other materials.

Metal roofing is favored because of the ease and simplicity in installing it, its fireproof characteristics, and its expected durability. Other factors which make this product saleable are its weight and ability to reflect heat from the sun. It can also be designed to have the best protection against moisture seepage, specially in the form of the standing seam metal roofing.  For these reasons metal roofing is deemed as an answer to many roof concerns.

Commonly Used Material

The most commonly used material for metal roofing is steel. Steel is preferred by more builders because of its durability as compared to aluminum. Metal roofing manufacturers have invented ways in making coatings and finishes stronger than before. Such development protect the roof from rusting and corroding.

If you are wondering what kind of magic coating is used in metal roofing - well, it is zinc. For color protection acrylic top coating is used. Another durable paint finishing is the fluorocarbon coating Kynar.

For over 50 years steel has been the trusted material for metal roofing. Residential, commercial, and institutional buildings have used this metal. What attracted them to steel aside from its durability is its versatility. The lifespan of steel as metal roofing is about two to three times sturdier compared with ordinary roofing products.

Since it is lightweight, about 50 to 150 pounds per square, you can apply it over your old roof. It will save a lot of your effort and time. This means that you can easily install metal roofing materials even without the help of contractors, provided that you know something about carpentry. 

Also, steel as a metal roofing is fireproof. Moreover, it can be placed on lightly pitched roofs without worrying about leaks. A steel roof will instantly add elegance to anybody’s home. However, the major drawback is its price. Steel has been labeled as the most expensive metal roofing material. 

Alternatives To Steel Roofing

A good alternative to steel is stainless steel which is an even more expensive roofing material that will not easily corrode or rust. If steel metal roofing is covered with zinc, stainless steel is coated with terne coating.

Aside from stainless steel, aluminum is another good substitute. Because of its extreme lightness this is often preferred in residential building. This metal roofing unlike steel naturally don’t rust but for appearance-wise it must be painted. However, environmentalists and skeptics are not in favor of the use of such resource for roofing purposes.

Another metal which will not rust is copper. Copper, which has been used for the past centuries, doesn’t need to be painted at all. If you are looking for metal roofing which is formulated for weathering, durability, and stronghold then what you need is alloys.

What Roofing Material is Best?

When choosing the perfect metal roofing product you must remember to take note of the price, the look, and durability. Metal roofing cost about $100 per square which is more expensive than asphalt shingle, but it is definitely better.

If you are re-roofing you can do so without altering the design and style too much. The traditional materials during earlier times like wood shingles, tiles, and slates can still be used. However, if you are aiming for modern and long-lasting roofing then you will have to use metal roofing.

Looking at initial cost you may feel at first that buying asphalt shingles will save you a lot, but consider the future of the product. Will an ordinary roofing material last for 50 years and more? The warranty presented by metal roofing products is impressive, and so are the benefits you get out of buying them.

For a homeowner whose interest is building a house that will last for a long while, using metal roofing materials is the main key to success.