What is the best type of metal roof?
Metal roofing is no longer just for barns and industrial type buildings. We see metal rooftops on homes in every neighborhood today, from basic homes to the more elaborate, expensive homes. Because homeowners, home builders, and insurance companies have learned that a metal roof is better in many ways over traditional asphalt roofs. Not worry about aesthetics either, metal roofing is available in different colors and different styles too!
Yes, at one time a metal roof was standard on grandpa’s farm or ranch, all bent and rusty after years of abuse from weather, animals, and farm equipment. Today, though, metal roofing can be as elegant as ceramic tile roofing and more durable than asphalt roofing. Still, homeowners that are still considering metal roofing, have concerns and questions, which we will address some of those here.
There are various types of metals to choose from for metal roofing, including rolled zinc, stainless steel, coated steel, coated stainless, and titanium, but the ones most commonly recommended are the following three:
- Aluminum Metal Roofing: This durable, corrosion-resistant, and lightweight material is ideal for any residential metal roofing installation. From shake, shingle, or standing seam profiles, aluminum metal roofing will never corrode or rust, ideal for homes on the coast. Today, aluminum metal roofing is pre-painted at the factory, is highly malleability, and is mostly made from recycled material, making it a sustainable material and highly popular for homeowners that focus on green living.
- Galvalume Steel Metal Roofing: Made with a base of carbon/iron steel that is coated with aluminum and zinc alloy, making it corrosion resistant with a barrier protection. Easily cut or scratched though and has the tendency for tension bend staining when formed in various profiles when exposed to corrosive elements that permeate any cracks in the metal, facilitating rust. A strong metal otherwise and chosen for its inexpensive price point for installation.
- Galvanized Steel Metal Roofing: Comes coated with a specific alloy on both sides to prevent rusting instead of electroplating to keep the cost reasonable. Galvanized steel metal roofing is strong and holds paint color well, offer a long lifespan for roofing and available in many colors and styles, including basic shingle look. Not recommended for homes on the coast because of the corrosive elements of salt spray.
- Copper Metal Roofing: Copper is an attractive touch to any home, unfortunately, it is an expensive material for metal roofing. Many homeowners choose another type of roofing material with cooper accents. Installed in sheeting or short standing seam panels, and available in shingles too, creating an aesthetic look that homeowner love when it has that unique patina. A soft and malleable metal, roofing is fairly easy to install and the end work gives you a durable material that has a long lifespan.
Do you need OSB under metal roof?
Plywood isn’t required under metal roofing as an underlayment, but many homeowners and roofing contractors find that there are circumstances where a metal roof without decking may not be the best option. OSB or other material for decking and underlayment provides a layer for soundproofing and if you want metal roof with insulation, a wood decking is recommended. With today’s metal roofing that has decking and underlayment, you can expect a minimum lifespan of thirty years or more.
Can I put metal roofing over OSB?
OSB (Oriented Strand Board) is an engineered lumber that is similar to particle board. It is manufactured using adhesives and compressed layers of wood strands. OSB makes a good roof decking, even with metal roofing when there is proper ventilation. Because OSB deteriorates quickly once it has become moist, ventilation is important when using it for any type of roofing material, even metal roofing.
Does a metal roof need to be vented?
Absolutely, just as any type of material used, metal roofing should be well ventilated. Today, with new roofing and new construction, most municipalities have code requirements that include certain ventilations. is adequate for any type of roofing material, including metal roofing.
Can you put a ridge vent on a metal roof?
Yes, in fact, a ridge vent is required in most building codes. Ridge vents are found on most metal roofing profiles. Corrugated, R Panel and PBR Panel, Stand Seam, Western Rib/7.2 Panel, and others. An experienced, professional roofing contractor will make recommendations and suggestions to meet the needs of your roof and budget.
Metal roofing could be the final touch to your home that gives it not only protection, but a beautiful finish that has a pleasing aesthetic curb appeal. Whether you are looking at roofing for your own benefits and years of enjoyment, or you’re looking for a way to make your house more appealing for the real estate market, you can’t go wrong with metal roofing. Call 828-808-5955 today for metal roofing in Arden, NC.