Questions You Might Have About Getting a Metal Roof Installed

27 June 2016
 Categories: Construction & Contractors, Blog

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A metal roof can be more expensive than standard asphalt tiles, but it usually lasts longer and may offer less maintenance, less need for repairs, and may also insulate your home better than asphalt tiles and shingles. Very often you can work with a steel or aluminum supplier to get the materials you need for a metal roof if you want to install a roof on your own, but before you do, note some commonly asked questions about a metal roof. This can help you to know if it's the right choice for you and can also help you determine the right material to use.

What is the best choice of material?

Zinc and copper are very expensive options and ones that most homeowners find they cannot afford, so consider aluminum versus steel. Steel typically has a much lower cost than aluminum, and it can be galvanized for added durability and strength. However, it does corrode over time and this isn't good especially for areas exposed to high levels of saltwater. Aluminum may be better for homes along the coast, even though it can be more expensive. Its longer lifespan and lack of corrosion or rust can make it a better long-term investment for many homeowners. 

What is standing seam versus metal shingles?

Metal shingles are just that; smaller pieces or tiles that resemble asphalt tiles and shingles. Standing seam refers to larger pieces of metal that are put over a big section of your roof and then connected to each other along their seam. Both offer distinct advantages; the standing seam may mean less risk of water getting in between those pieces of metal, whereas metal shingles may be easier for a homeowner to install on their own if they've had experience in applying individual shingles or tiles.

What is an "over top" installation?

The term "over top" refers to installing a new roof over the top of your existing roofing materials. You can usually do this with standing seam pieces of metal; they can be fitted to go over your current shingles and flashing paper and then fastened into place. This can be cheaper than tearing off your old materials and also means not having to find a way to recycle or dispose of those old shingles. This might also make the roofing job easier on you if you're not accustomed to tearing off old shingles without knowing how to avoid damaging the building materials underneath the shingles.