Residential Metal Roofing Guide
Metal Roofing in Ontario is an increasingly popular choice for homeowners. For some homeowners, the decision stems from the unique look of metal roofing, while others appreciate the environmental and energy-related benefits. And those reasons certainly ring true. However, one of the most popular reasons homeowners turn to metal roofing is that they are simply tired of the constant churn of shingle replacement.
Since shingles offer a 12–20 year replacement cycle and metal roofing routinely provides a 50–60 year service life, the idea of a once-and-done approach is appealing. A metal roof is often the last roof a homeowner will ever install.
Considering the longevity of your investment, selecting a metal roof is a big decision. Navigating pricing, roofing styles, substrates, paint systems, warranties, contractors, etc., can prove to be a time-consuming and frustrating search for accurate knowledge.
The Residential Metal Roofing Guide takes a deep dive into everything you need to know before purchasing a metal roof for your home.
Why Metal Roofing?
If you’ve heard that metal roofing is a long-term solution for your home’s roof but want to gain a fuller understanding of exactly why that is, this introduction to metal roofing answers those questions. These intro pages provide information — backed by research — that explains the benefits of metal roofing, including recyclability, energy efficiency, and service life.
Metal Roofing Myths
Although more frequently used in commercial construction, metal roofing has been around for hundreds of years. In some cases, homeowners have heard common myths about metal roofing that prevent switching to the superior product option.
Substrates
Many consumers spend the most time thinking about the color of their new metal roofs. While the color is certainly more visible, the composition of the actual metal itself is critical to how long you can expect your new roof to last. Consequently, substrates are one of the most critical items to consider when selecting your metal roof. The most popular steel substrates in the metal roofing industry are Galvanized and Galvalume.
Coatings
The coating system, or paint, is a crucial element to create the desired aesthetic for your home, but the coating you select also impacts the overall performance of your new metal roof. The coating you choose protects the steel from harsh environmental conditions like ultraviolet sun rays, acid rain, dirt, etc. Over time, these conditions can break down the coating and result in panel fade and chalk. The three popular coatings for metal panels are Polyester, Silicone-Modified Polyester (SMP), and Kynar 500® (PVDF), and each coating system offers different performance standards.
Warranties
Roofing warranties can be confusing. It’s important to understand that products with extended warranties don’t always provide better performance.
Panel Options
When first examining the options available for metal roofing panels, it can seem overwhelming. In reality, there are two basic types of systems: Exposed Fastener and Concealed Fastener. These options carry different costs because concealed fasteners are considered a step-up from exposed fasteners and take more time to manufacture and install. Each panel style also carries a variation in performance standards.
Contractor Selection
Identifying a qualified contractor is a vital step in your residential metal roofing project. Ultimately, you want to select a contractor specializing in metal roofing rather than someone who occasionally installs metal roofing.
Are you thinking of getting new metal or steel roofing? Steel Roofers Serving Toronto, Ottawa, and the rest of Ontario, high quality steel roofing is suited specifically for its application and made from the most durable materials for it.
