Are metal roofs noisy?
NO, NOT IN TYPICAL RESIDENTIAL OR COMMERCIAL ROOFING APPLICATIONS. This is the most common question about metal roofs because we have all been inside an old barn, metal building or even under a metal canopy that can get somewhat noisy when it rains. The difference is, a metal roof in a residential or commercial application is typically installed over some type of roof substrate or possible an existing roof. This substrate, combined with the building's insulation, provides not only the solid backing for the metal roofing but also potential for sound dampening. Most of us can tell when it is raining outside either from the sound of the rain hitting the roof, the gutters, the skylights or the building's windows. The sound will remain basically the same with a metal roof system.
Can I put it over other roofing?
YES! Metal roofs are regularly installed over other roofing materials. Building codes will prevail, but there are many cases where the metal roof is the third roof covering on a structure. Because metal is so light, it is rarely a concern for weight. We think installing a metal roof over built-up, composition, tar and gravel, or roofs of this nature is a very appropriate use of metal roofing. We do not recommend installing a metal roof over wood shakes or shingles. Wood roofing materials should be removed prior to the installation of a metal roofing product.
How long will a metal roof last?
THE LONGEST OF ANY ROOF OUT THERE, LIKELY A LIFETIME! Certainly there are a number of variables that impact life expectancy. Mostly the environment and the application. Typically, chemical environments are the only things that negatively effect metal roof performance other than poor application. There are metal roofs in use over 100 years old. Proper installation and a careful understanding of the environment will ensure a very long life performance.
Is a metal roof easy to repair or replace?
METAL ROOFS ARE REALLY NO DIFFERENT IN REGARDS TO REPAIRING OR REPLACING ANY OTHER ROOFING MATERIAL. Whether they are long length panels or modular shingles, they can be replaced with relative ease. The real benefit of the metal roof is it is most resilient to damage. Metal roofs will not crack, break, peel or blister which are the primary reasons other roofing materials need replacement. Certainly, color change would be a primary concern from a new roof replacement to an older original roof but this is the same concern with all roofing materials.
Is it expensive?
EXPENSIVE IS A VERY RELATIVE TERM. Yes, a metal roof is more expensive than many other roofing products, but it also provides a better value. This value comes in the long life expectancy as well as the benefits of low-to-no maintenance and the aesthetic beauty it adds to any structure. It is easy to justify a metal roof as the best value although it may have a higher initial cost.
Will it rust?
METAL ROOFS HAVE MANY CLEAR ADVANTAGES HERE. Certainly copper or aluminum roofs will not rust. The technology in steel roof coating today includes heavy zinc or zinc-aluminum alloy coatings that provide excellent protection to the steel core. Even field or factory cut edges are protected due to the sacrificial qualities of zinc in the coating. We would be happy to explain this process to you thoroughly so you can appreciate the long life qualities of steel roofing.
Will a metal roof make my building hot inside?
NO, ACTUALLY A METAL ROOF WILL REFLECT MORE HEAT THAN MOST ROOFING MATERIALS. A metal roof is also very easy to incorporate continuous venting options for better building circulation and cooler conditions during warmer weather. Many of our customers have commented how much more comfortable their home is year round. In very hot areas of the country, metal roofs are used to significantly decrease energy costs for cooling. With today’s modern paint coatings, “cool” technologies have been incorporated to substantially enhance the heat reflectivity characteristics of the entire roof system.