Commercial Metal Roofing systems have truly come full circle during the past century. From being a popular roofing material in the early 20th century to being replaced by cheaper roofing materials such as asphalt shingles during the past several decades, to emerging once again as the premier roofing system for commercial buildings and homes. The future looks bright for metal roofing, and there are several trends and benefits that are fueling the growth.

The first benefit of metal roofing is its enhanced performance caused by recent innovations in metal roofing paint systems and coating technology. The vast majority of today’s metal roofs use a Galvalume coated steel substrate which virtually eliminates worries about rust and corrosion. And just as important, paint systems now have outstanding resistance to fading, chalking, and cracking under the most stringent conditions. These paint systems use cutting edge technology and inorganic pigments to provide the maximum protection against harmful UV rays.

Added Benefits of Metal Roofing Systems

The second metal roofing benefit is that metal roofing is tough. When it comes to wind and weather resistance, metal roofing stands alone. Our metal roofing meets the toughest wind, fire, and impact codes in the country. Your metal roof will probably outlast you. Most metal roofs last 3 to 4 times longer than an asphalt shingle roof.

The third benefit of metal roofing is that there is a genuine concern in helping to maintain and improve the environment for future generations. In this regard, metal roofing meets the criteria of recycled content, recyclability, and energy efficiency. Metal roofing is one of the most energy efficient roofing systems available. Additionally, tests have shown that it can save you up to 40% on cooling costs.

In addition, metal roofing is not asphalt based like shingles. This means its production doesn’t continue to fuel our country’s biggest addiction… oil. Although these are the major drivers, there are many other reasons why metal roofing is gaining in popularity.

ADVANTAGES OF STANDING SEAM METAL ROOFING

High Seams– The name itself contains one great advantage of standing seam metal roofs: seams.  Raising the seams above the level of the roofing panel, reduces the impact of the weak point in any roof and a potential entry point for moisture.  You can’t say this for composition shingles.

Fewer Seams– Because the metal panels run unhindered from the top to the bottom of the roof, not only are there no horizontal seams but in total the roof has a far fewer number of seams.

Tough– Yes, metal is tough–very tough–but it’s not impervious to all hazards. The sheet metal in this type of roofing can be penetrated by heavy falling limbs or dented by a severe hailstorm.

“Cool Roof”–  In General, the US Environmental Protection Agency considers all metal roofing a “cool roof.”  Metal roofing can be painted any color, including colors on the lighter end of the spectrum which prevents solar heat gain.

Sleek Looks– Standing seam roofs are perfect for certain types of contemporary or country-style houses. Due to the smooth, straight lines, these roofs give your house an “industrial” feeling, yet with a modern flair. These are not the rippled tin roofs that you might remember from warehouses of the past.

Colors– As mentioned this earlier, but only in terms of lighter, sun-reflecting colors. But what about style? Metal comes in a decent array of colors: grays, browns, forest greens, earthy reds. Perhaps this isn’t the full palette of colors as you might find at a paint store, but it’s more than you’ll find with composite/asphalt shingles.