Everything you need to know about Metal Roofing

What is a Metal Roof?

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A metal roof is simply a roofing system made using metal pieces, tiles, or panels. A metal roof is a part of the roofing envelope which is the physical separator between the inside and outside of the building and is designed to provide resistance to air, water, heat and sound. The roof also contributes to structural support and is a significant contributor to the overall aesthetic appearance of a building.

Types of Metal Roofing

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Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Standing seam metal roofs are a popular choice for homes and commercial buildings.

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Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing

Exposed fastener metal roofing panels are well suited to large and commercial buildings where strength and span is essential.

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Metal Shingle and Tile Roofing

Metal shingle and tile roofing looks remarkably like asphalt shingles and clay tiles.

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Metal Roof Retrofit and Recover

Metal roof retrofit and recover offers a low cost and environmentally-friendly alternative to roof replacement.

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Why Metal Roofing is Gaining Popularity

Longer life span, improved energy efficiency and a reduced environmental impact are just a few of the key benefits homeowners consider when choosing a metal roof. 

The initial cost is often more than a traditional asphalt roof; however, that cost is more than offset by its increased lifespan. Metal roofs can last 40 to 60 years saving significant money (and hassle of replacement) over the long-term. Besides longevity, metal roofing typically uses a reflective solar coating designed to minimize heat buildup and reduce air conditioning costs.

An if all of that isn't enough, metal weighs less and installs more quickly than traditional shingle products.  And for homeowners tired of constant asphalt shingle replacement, metal can often be installed over existing shingles which saves the cost/labor of shingle tear off as well as disposal/landfill fees.  

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Benefits of Metal Roofing Systems

Metal Roofing FAQ

Metal roofing consistently outperforms shingles when it comes to resisting harsh elements. In addition to being fire and hail resistant, metal roofs are also effective against extreme winds. Many insurance companies recognize the durability of metal roofing, offering discounts for structures with metal roofs.

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While the upfront costs of installing a metal roof are often higher than shingles, a metal roof lasts longer and will be replaced or repaired far less frequently. A typical shingle roof lasts anywhere from 12 to 20 years, depending upon how well it’s maintained and weather elements it may encounter. Metal roofs, on the other hand, can last between 40 and 60 years while also requiring less maintenance, making them a more cost-effective choice over the lifespan of the roof.

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Thanks to a combination of ASV (Above Sheathing Ventilation) and special coating designed to reflect the sun’s energy and release absorbed heat, metal roof panels can reduce energy costs by as much as 20% compared to asphalt shingles.

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The odds of a lightning strike hitting a metal roof are the same as any other roof, regardless of material. In the event that there is a lightning strike, however, metal roofing will not ignite and catch fire since it is not combustible.

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Definitely not! Like most building materials, metal roofing is available in varying levels of quality. Homeowners should be sure to ask their contractor or supplier what substrate and paint coating they are recommending for their home. Galvalume steel substrates and Kynar 500® (PVDF) coatings provide the best long-term performance. Click here for facts about substrates and coatings.

Metal rusts, but if the right metal substrate is chosen, the risk of rust is minimized.

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Wondering where to begin? We can help.

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A class 4 roof is an impact-resistant roof and will perform will when exposed to hail.

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Get our best tips and tricks for how to measure a roof for metal roofing.

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Metal roofing is an energy efficient, environmentally friendly roofing material that offers cost savings and a long lifespan.

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It is safe to walk on a metal roof. Get answers to the most common questions about how to walk on metal roof tiles.

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There are a lot of metal roof colors to choose from! We'll help you navigate the options.

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Get the metal roofing pros and cons homeowners need to know to make an informed roofing decision. 

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Snow does slide off of metal roofs. Snow retention systems can be used to help prevent the sudden release of built-up snow from a metal roof.

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The good news is that metal roofs with a roof assembly (decking, insulation, and underlayment) are no noisier than any other type of roof.

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Metal roof systems offer homeowners in hail prone areas a long lasting, durable roofing solution. 

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Metal roofs that look like tile share many similarities with clay tiles but offer homeowners some distinct advantages over the most traditional tile construction material.

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While it is impossible to call any roof hurricane proof, a properly designed metal roofing system can be capable of handling wind speeds in excess of what is normally experienced in hurricane-prone regions.

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Yes! Get four reasons why they are.

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Asphalt saturated, roofing-tar paper, or synthetic?

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Yes! Solar panels and metal roofing are a great match!

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Oil canning is something you see when a metal panel appears wavy or distorted.

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Yes! Installing metal roofing over existing shingles is often an excellent way for building owners to not only get a long-lasting, high-performance roof but also to save on roof tear-off expenses. However, sometimes tearing off the existing roof is a necessary step. Please click the link below for more information.

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Installing a new metal roof on your home is a big project for most homeowners. The expense and expectations for a new metal roof underscore the importance of finding a trusted roofing contractor to ensure proper installation. We've written an article to help. Read More

Metal roofing offers exceptional performance in harsh conditions. With the right choice of materials, it can withstand extreme weather and environmental challenges where other roof types would struggle or have a dramatically reduced lifespan.

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Metal roofing is a versatile material and a great choice for any climate; it is resistant to extreme temperatures and harsh weather and provides enduring performance throughout the country. Learn More
If you have a metal roof, you might be wondering if you can participate in this festive tradition. Will the twinkling lights adhere to your metal roof without causing damage? Great news… there are several perfect ways to safely hang lights on your metal roof! Read More

Knowing the signs that it’s time for a new roof and available options helps you make an informed decision when the time comes. 

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Residential Metal Roofing Guide

All across the country, homeowners are ditching their shingle roofs and upgrading to metal! While residential metal roofing isn’t new, it is gaining in popularity because more homeowners are recognizing the many environmental and energy-related benefits that metal roofing has to offer.

This eBook was developed to help guide homeowners who have an interest in metal roofing but are seeking a little more knowledge and understanding before finalizing their decision. If that’s your situation, this information is for you.

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What Home and Building Owners Are Saying

Whether you’re installing a roof on a newly-constructed home or building or replacing an existing roof, selecting the right roofing material is an important decision. Most owners chose asphalt shingles out of habit, despite the fact that no building material has a shorter service life. Today, more people than ever are turning to metal for their roofing needs.

At McElroy Metal, we understand that our customers may have questions or concerns about metal roofing. To address those issues and show why a metal makes sense for your home or building, we’ve put together the following case studies from happy owners that have made the switch to metal.

You literally can’t tell that our roof isn’t regular shingles from the road. In fact, our neighbors are all shocked to find out our new roof is metal.

Mary Hayes

Several of the neighbors have commented how much they like it too. But they were concerned that it would be noisy when it rained. I tell them it’s not like one of my uninsulated sheds at the farm. Once you have the plywood deck and insulation, there’s no more noise than a traditional asphalt shingle roof.

Gene Zoss

There have been some neighbors come look at it because they like the idea that it’s maintenance free. More folks are definitely considering it for their homes. My brother is even going to go with it when his shingles need replacement.

John Louis

Find a Distributor/Contractor Near You

Whether you’re building a new home or planning renovations, a metal roof can deliver long-term cost savings and comfort. To explore your options and find the product that meets your aesthetic and budgetary needs, contact a McElroy Metal distributor or contractor in your area today. 

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