Choosing the right metal type to install on a metal roof can be a daunting experience. There is a lot of literature on the internet concerning the different types of metal roofs, the materials used and the pricing. So, for this article we break down the different types of metals used in metal roofing. Additionally we will introduce the benefits to using a particular metal for your home. Our goal is to inform you, the consumer, so that you have a well thought out plan for your residential or commercial roofing project.
Metal Through History
Metal roofing materials have come a long way since they were first mass produced, during the industrial revolution. Tin roofs quickly became popular for commercial buildings. However, they were noisy and subject to corrosion and rust. A new metal was needed to satisfy residential customers and manufacturers started experimenting with alloys to find the perfect metal for each job.
Metal Roof Metals
However, current metal roofs are extremely durable with a clean look. They can be painted a multitude of colors and have a great lifespan. As you read the article please take into consideration the style of your building or house, the desired appearance of the roof, the local climate and the ratio between the cost and the lifespan of the roof. Each of these play a role in achieving the best metal roof for your home or business.
Galvalume
This advanced alloy combines three of the most important metals used in roofing today: steel, aluminum, and zinc. Galavalume became popular in the late 1970s. It takes the best aspects from the three father metals (zinc, aluminum and steel) and combines them to make a roof which is resistant to corrosion and rust.
- Galavalume painted by the factory, offers increased durability and a wide range of colors for the consumer to choose from.
- It is less expensive than many high quality roofing materials.
- This alloy can be fitted over your current roof which means there will be no tear-off cost.
- Galavalume typically will come with a warranty. These warranties can cover anything from paint, to weather-tight warranties, and warranties on labor.
Aluminum
Aluminum is one of the most prevalent metals on earth. Aluminum?s benefits come from its light weight and resistance to rust and corrosion.
- Aluminum is a very light-weight metal. This light weight makes it easier to install and produce.
- It has high malleability, which means it can be shaped into different designs easily. These include imitation clay, stone or wood shingles.
- Aluminum is a very strong metal. Due to aluminum?s strength, a much thinner piece of aluminum aachieves the same strength that a thicker piece of another metal would use.
- A major benefit to aluminum is its resistance to rusting and corrosion. Aluminum is extremely resistant to corrosion and can be used in locations with high rainfall or salt water proximity.
- This metal boasts a mid-range price point and is a very common metal to use in roofing. Contractors will have experience installing aluminum roofs.
These more available metals (Galvalume and Aluminum) often overlap in price compared to the mid-high tier shingle options. Installation is not always more expensive with metal.
Zinc
As a long term metal roofing solution, zinc has been gaining popularity. Zinc roofs withstand the test of time and lasting anywhere from 60 to 100 years. If professionally installed some zinc roofs last over 150 years. This longevity will increase the value of your home on the market.
Copper
This advanced alloy combines three of the most important metals used in roofing today: steel, aluminum, and zinc. Galavalume became popular in the late 1970s. It takes the best aspects from the three father metals (zinc, aluminum and steel) and combines them to make a roof which is resistant to corrosion and rust.
- Copper is a lightweight metal and is easy for contractors to install. It also puts less strain on the structure underneath the roof over time.
- It is extremely durable, it can last over a 100 years.
- Copper is a great choice for areas with heavy rainfall or snow. Copper has an innate ability to shed heavy snowfalls off the structure.
- This metal is a premium and high quality roofing material. Chosen for its beauty, copper will add to the value of any home.
- Copper is very expensive and will reflect that value when adding to a home?s property value.
Stainless Steel
- Stainless steel is used as a metal roofing material for high strength and durability needs.
- It has a high durability and can withstand corrosion and degradation for over 60 years.
- Stainless steel excels in extreme weather conditions. It can withstand very high or very low temperatures as it doesn?t crack in low temperatures or expand in high temperatures.
- This metal choice is energy efficient and reflects extreme temperatures away from your house and helps to keep interior temperatures stable.
- Due to stainless steels longevity most manufacturers will offer warranties to protect your investment.
- Additionally stainless steel can come n a variety of finishes to match any project.
- Galvanized steel ? Steel coated with zinc. Adds corrosion protection and adds to the aesthetics of the property.
- Stone coated steel Steel panels coated with aluminum/zinc with a top layer covered in ceramic imitation stone. Stylish with a multitude of customization options, including recreating architectural designs from the past such as stone roofs seen on castles to Victorian looks.