If you are considering installing a metal roof, you may be wondering how long it will last. The answer to that question depends on a number of factors, including the climate in which you live, the skill of your roofing contractor, and the type of metal used.
In general, standing seam metal roofs are one of the most durable roofing types available, lasting for 50 years with proper installation.
What is Standing Seam Metal Roofing?
A standing seam metal roof is a type of roof that is made out of metal sheets. The seams between the sheets are what give the roof its name, as they "stand" up perpendicular to the panels. This type of roof is becoming increasingly popular due to its durability and longevity – it can often last for decades without much maintenance. Its sleek appearance is also a plus that makes it a popular choice for residential structures.
How Does a Standing Seam Metal Roof Work?
A standing seam metal roof is installed in two parts: the roof deck and the metal panels. The roof deck is the substrate onto which the metal panels are attached. The roof deck can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, concrete, or metal.
The metal panels are made from aluminum, steel or copper and are attached to the roof deck with screws or nails. Then, the seams between the panels are sealed with a sealant. This type of roof is attractive because it is seamless. Unlike with other roofing materials, there are no valleys or ridges where water can collect and cause damage.
What Makes it So Durable?
One of the most significant advantages of a metal roof, such as standing seam roofing, is that there are no fasteners visible. This means fasteners will not come into contact with deteriorating elements like UV, moisture, wind, and other factors that can weaken the fastener. Compared to a slate roof, wood shingles, or clay tiles, a metal roof will not suffer from the same issues and is less likely to leak.
Roofing Materials
The type of metal that's used is also a factor. Some types of metal are more durable than others, and they may also be more or less susceptible to corrosion. If you're looking for a standing seam metal roof that will last for a long time, it's important to choose one made with durable metal. Steel roofing and copper roofing are two popular choices to ensure lasting performance, as are aluminum panels and other metal alloys.
Climate
Metal roofs are a popular choice for homes because they are efficient and durable, extremely weather-resistant, and wind-resistant. Nevertheless, Climate is one of the most important factors when it comes to the lifespan of standing seam metal roofs.
Hot Climates: In hotter climates, the metal will expand and contract more, which can lead to wear and tear on the seams. However, in some cases, metal roofing can be a good choice for hot areas, as it doesn't rot or permit insect infestation.
Cold Climates: Metal Roofs get great heat reflection from the sun and are therefore good at shedding ice and snow. Different styles of cold weather roofing attachments, including snow guards and ice stops can be added to metal roof designs to prevent ice damage.
Wet Climates: Metal roofs have zero water absorbency, which prevents water logging and contributes to their long life expectancy, no matter how much rain falls. A metal roof will have no rotting, cracking, or rusting, making it an excellent, low-maintenance, alternative to a wood shingle roof or asphalt shingle roof.
Extreme Weather: In areas with severe weather conditions, such as hurricanes and tornadoes, a metal roof can be the best option. Metal roofs are more wind resistant than other types of roofs and can withstand high winds and flying debris without being damaged. Steel Roofs are one of the strongest options on the market, offering extra durability. For extra protection in areas prone to hail storms, a metal roof can be installed on top of asphalt shingles for an extra layer of protection.
Costal Climate: In a costal climate, most metal roofs do not last as long. Aluminum and zinc are two metals that work well in coastal areas, but there is no guarantee that they will last as long as a roof is not exposed to seawater, which has corrosive properties.
Installation
The quality of the installation is another important factor when it comes to the lifespan of standing seam roofs. A poor installation can lead to water infiltration, which will cause the metal roof to rust and corrode prematurely. It's important to choose a qualified contractor who has experience installing metal roofs in order to ensure a good job.
At True North Metal, our experience in metal roof installation spans many years. The workmanship we inject into your roofing installation is focused on affording you the best return on investment. To provide you with great value for your money, we invest much of our resources in acquiring the highest-quality roofing products.
The Many Advantages of Installing Metal Panels Over Asphalt Shingles
When installing a new metal roof, it is not always necessary that the old roof be removed. When it comes to the lifespan of a roof, metal roof life expectancy is the highest, especially when installed over an asphalt shingle roof. This option reduces waste, as the metal panels cover the existing roof. In addition to being long-lasting, combined with shingles, metal roofs are also:
More weather and wind-resistant
More durable against extreme weather conditions
Better at shredding snow and ice
Non-combustible
Recyclable
Environmentally friendly and energy efficient
Aesthetically pleasing
If you're looking for a roof that will last for many years, a metal roof is a great option. To ensure that your metal roof will last, be sure to choose a qualified contractor to install it and select a metal that is known for its durability.
A Metal Roof Can Save Homeowners Money during its entire Life Expectancy
As energy costs rise, many consumers are looking for ways to increase their homes' energy efficiency. One way to do this is by installing a metal roof. Metal roofs are reflective, which means they bounce the sun's heat back away from the house. This keeps the home cooler in the summer and reduces the amount of air conditioning needed. In the winter, the metal roof will capture solar heat, which will help to keep it warm.
If properly installed, a metal roof will make up for installation costs over the course of its life expectancy. It can also save you money on your insurance premiums. Many insurance companies offer discounts on premiums for homeowners who have a metal roof installed on their home.
Metal Roofing is Time-Tested
Metal roofs have been in use for centuries, and they are still popular today. But although the sleek design of steel or other metal panel systems makes them look futuristic, historic buildings demonstrate that metal roofs can last for generations when installed and maintained properly. While metal roofs were historically made of lead and copper, today's highly resistant types of metal ensure even more astounding performance. In the past, metal roofs were most prized for their fire-resistant properties, but today the overall quality and durability of metal roofing systems makes maintenance easy and keeps total cost low.
Conclusion
Now that you know some of the factors that affect the lifespan of standing seam metal roofs, you can make an informed decision when it comes to choosing a new roofing material for your home. Metal roofs are becoming an increasingly popular choice, and with good reason – they're durable, efficient, and can withstand even the harshest weather conditions. So if you're looking for a roof that will last for decades, a standing seam roof may be the perfect option for you.
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