4 Things to Look For in A Metal Roof
Asphalt roofs may be the most popular in the roofing industry – but they aren’t for everyone. If you’ve done your due diligence and determined that a metal roof is the right fit for your needs, congratulations!
However, the work is not done there. Different metal roofs will give you different results, but how do you know what to look for?
Rescue My Roof has spent over a decade educating homeowners to make the best decisions for their homes and families, and today, we’re extending that education to you.
This article will teach you the top four essentials to look for in a high-quality metal roof. In the end, you’ll be able to make a well-informed decision to fit your home’s needs.
What Should You Look For In A Metal Roof?
All metal roofs are made differently, meaning which one you choose may give you different results than your expectations.
Before you make a decision, there are some key considerations to keep in mind:
1. Invest In 50-Year Paint Coats
Metal roofs are more complex than what meets the eye.
Metal roofs have a paint coat that protects them from rusting. Additionally, it gives them a clean look for years to come.
However, not all paint coats are made equally. The paint coats may only be guaranteed for eight to ten years on cheaper metal roofs.
Higher-end metal roofs come with a 50-year paint coating that will protect your roof for a lifetime.
If you’re living in your forever home and want your roof to last, you may want to invest in a 50-year paint coat.
2. Look For The Thickest Gauge
Gauges are used to measure the thickness of the metal panels. The most common gauges for metal roofs are 29, 26, 24, and 22 gauge.
Thicker gauges can withstand adverse weather, while thinner gauges may see early signs of wear and tear.
However, not every panel is available in every gauge. For example, if you’re installing a standing seam roof, they only come in thicker gauges (22 to 24 gauge). Other metal materials, like corrugated metal roofs, come with a broader range of gauges.
Work with a sales representative to find the appropriate gauge for your home and climate. The right contractor certified in metal roofing will be able to walk you through the process and get you the best results.
3. Exposed Fastener vs. Standing Seam
There are a variety of metal roofs available, with standing seam and exposed fasteners being the two most popular.
Exposed fastener roofs are made from metal panels. These panels overlap slightly, and screws go through both panels of the overlapped metal and directly into the roof deck.
Standing seam roofs have raised seams that connect the panels to the roof deck without exposing the fasteners.
They are considered higher quality than exposed fastener roofing systems and are commonly seen in modern architectural buildings.
When deciding between the two roofing systems, the most significant considerations will be each system’s budget and disadvantages.
With exposed fasteners, you will save money initially. However, with a higher risk of leaks and no weather-tight warranty, you may find yourself paying for repairs down the road.
Standing Seam roofs provide a decreased risk of leaks, but it may be more challenging to find a contractor, and they will be more expensive. Overall, you will pay more for the installation process and may not find a certified roofing contractor in your area.
4. Warranties
Different manufacturers and contractors will offer varying warranties.
Warranties help to protect your roof and your wallet when something goes wrong. If the roof isn’t installed correctly, or there are issues with the materials, their costs will be covered through the warranty.
This is why it’s recommended you receive multiple estimates when beginning a roofing project. This way, you’ll be able to compare the prices and the different warranties each company offers.
You can learn more about choosing the best warranty for you here.
How to Choose The Right Metal Roof
When choosing a metal roof to fit your home’s needs, there are four key factors: paint coats, gauge, style, and warranties.
However, in the end, it may all come down to budget. Metal roofs can be pricey, and you’ll want to stay in-budget while finding the right features.
Are you looking for information on financing a roof? We’ve got you covered. Check out “6 Ways to Pay For A Roof Replacement” and “Roof Financing: 2 Loans You Should Consider.”
Are you ready to find a certified roofing contractor for your project? Rescue My Roof has spent over a decade serving happy homeowners in Southeastern Wisconsin. While we don’t currently offer metal roofs, we can help with all asphalt and flat roof projects. Contact us today for a free, fast, and honest roof estimate.