Metal Roofing FAQ
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Do metal roofs add value to your home?
Compared to a home with asphalt shingles, installing a metal roof can increase your home’s value by 1-5% on average!
How much does a sheet of metal roofing cost?
Typically a metal roof costs between $100-$900 per 100 square feet of material.
Is it cheaper to get a metal roof or shingles?
Up front, it is cheaper to get a roof with shingles, however, even though a metal roof costs more up front, it will save you money over time by increasing the value of your home and by saving you on heating and cooling costs.
Are metal roofs eco-friendly?
For the most part, metal roofs are made of recycled materials – and they can be recycled again. In general, they are considered more energy-efficient and sustainable. Shingles, on the other hand, are filling U.S. landfills. It has been estimated that every year approximately 20 billion lbs of asphalt shingles are thrown away in landfills. Furthermore, asphalt shingles increase dependency on fossil fuels as they are a petroleum based material.
Can you put a metal roof over shingles?
As long as your local building codes allow for it, this is possible. However, there is potential for trapped water vapors which can lead to moisture build-up, mold and rot.
Get a Free Roof Estimate to see if this can be done on your roof!
What are the potential disadvantages of a metal roof?
Cost (these roofs can cost 2-3x more than other roofing materials)
Noisiness during heavy rain or hailstorms
If repairs are needed, it may be difficult to do an exact color match
If there is water accumulation due to poor installation, it can cause serious damages to the roof over time. Using high quality materials and adding more insulation can prevent this issue.
Are metal roofs noisy?
On average, metal roofs are quieter than shingle roofs. As long as the metal roof is installed with sufficient sheathing and insulation, this can solve any noise issues (but may increase initial costs).
What are the potential problems with metal roofs?
Roof Leaks
If your metal roof isn’t properly installed by experienced workers, there can be gaps or punctures that can lead to leaks. If you notice your metal roof is leaking, address it as soon as possible.
Blow-offs
If the roof is not properly installed, this can cause poorly attached flashings – which can lead to laps and open seams which can result in the roof blowing off.
Punctures & Tears
If there is a lot of foot traffic on your metal roof, the roof may suffer from tears or punctures. It is important to keep any foot traffic to a minimum.
Ponding water
This is one of the most common causes of issues with metal roofs. Ponding water can cause pressure and may lead to leaks, amongst other issues. It is important to regularly clear pools and puddles.
The good news is that there are ways to reduce the likelihood of these issues. Ensuring that the roof is installed properly our experienced workers can greatly reduce future issues and save you money over time.
Have one of our experts give you a Free roof estimate today!
What is the best underlayment for metal roof?
The most common underlayment on a sloped metal roof is a non-perforated asphalt-impregnated felt underlayment.
Leave it up to the experts and call us today for more information or a Free roof estimate!
What is the best color of metal roof for energy savings?
The color choice for your metal roof is very important and will have a huge impact on your home’s energy efficiency. In order to reduce cooling costs, you will want to choose a light-colored material to reflect the sun. When comparing a white metal roof to asphalt shingles, your home can be as much as 60 degrees cooler in the summertime. If you live in a warm climate this can reduce your cooling bills by up to 25%.
On the other hand, in a colder climate without much sun, you may want to choose a darker tone to attract sun rays and help retain heat – saving you on heating costs!
Can you walk on a metal roof without damaging it?
You can, however heavy foot traffic is ill advised. Our high quality roofing materials will make your roof resistant to damages caused by foot traffic and hail damage. We can advise you on how you can safely walk on your roof if needed.
What are the best types of metal roofs?
Let’s take a look at the materials available for metal roofs:
Iron
Iron is an affordable option, but they are typically used on industrial properties.
Stainless Steel
This is the most common material used for metal roofs as well as the most affordable. This is a strong, rust and dent resistant material. Comes in a wide variety of colors.
Aluminum
This material will be more expensive than a steel roof but has different benefits. It is also corrosion-resistant, energy-efficient, lightweight, recyclable and durable. This is a great choice for residential roofs. Not very dent resistant.
Copper
This is the most expensive choice but is the most durable. This material can last up to one hundred years and is easy to maintain. Very fire resistant. Over time, the copper may form a greenish tint due to oxidization.
Zinc
Zinc roofs are resistant to corrosion and are malleable. Can last up to 100 years as well!
How long does a metal roof last on a house?
Copper and zinc roofs can last up to a hundred years, aluminum or steel can last for 50+ years!
Do corrugated metal roofs leak?
They can, yes. They are very strong and have many advantages but are not indestructible. The five main causes of leaks are:
1. Metal Roofing Screws
If the screws are not installed properly, the rubber washer can end up not being flat on the roof – and as such, will not create a proper seal against moisture.
2. Stack Flashings
The flashings, or the “boots” on the roof are the seals that go around pipes or vents coming out of the roof. The purpose of the flashings are to waterproof the seal around the pipes and are typically made from rubber. The sun can cause deterioration over time and they will last about half as long as the metal roofing material itself.
3. Missing Sealants
All of the sealants used during installation will not last as long as the metal itself and will need to be replaced as a part of regular maintenance.
4. Curb Flashings
These are the flashings that will go around HVAC units on the roof to create a seal against moisture. If the flashing isn’t installed properly, water can get trapped behind the HVAC unit and can erode the sealant.
5. Seams and Over Laps
A seam is where two pieces of material are joined. Leaks are common in the seams due to what is called capillary draw (where water travels between the seams).
How do you fix a leaky metal roof?
You can either repair the roof, restore the roof or replace the roof. It is best to have an expert inspect the roof to see what the best course of action will be.
Repairs may be as simple as locating and retightening fasteners that have loosened, but every situation is unique. As a metal roof ages, the likelihood of a leak increases and restoration may be needed. This would include repairs, adding rust inhibitors and applying a coating.
Can we help you repair your metal roof? Call us today for a Free Roof Estimate!
Do Metal Roofs interfere with cell phone reception?
No. A metal roof will not interrupt your cell reception, but if you have existing disruptions, installing a metal roof can increase interruptions.
Can you walk on a metal roof without damaging it?
You can, but there is a specific way to do it to avoid damage. Ask our roofing experts for advice!
Do metal roofs have ridge vents?
They can and are recommended. Reasons include allowing air flow out of the attic, preventing mildew and rot, preventing peeling paint and warped siding and provision of consistent ventilation.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes! We would be more than happy to share our licenses, insurance coverages and certifications with you for your peace of mind. This is for your own protection and a matter of compliance with Colorado law.
FH Water Restoration is a Denver based licensed, insured, and certified restoration company committed to proactively handling disasters so our customers don't have to.