Metals Commonly Used in Residential Metal Roofing
Whether you want a whole metal roof system or simply a metal roof over your screened-in porch, you must choose the metal type.
You must select an appropriate metal for your location, the aesthetic you want, and your budget. While there are several alternatives, there are three that we see most often in residential roofing.
We at Jay Carter Roofing strive to encourage every homeowner to make the best possible choices for themselves and their roof. That is why we will discuss the many kinds of metal used in residential roofing.
Which Metal Roofing Material Is Best For Residential Roofing?
Before discussing the various kinds of metal, it’s important to understand which metal roof system is appropriate for residential roofing.
A standing seam metal roof system is comprised of a series of panels that are mechanically seamed or fastened together at the seams. This enables unrestricted expansion and contraction of the panels when the metal warms up.
A screw-down panel is just that; it is screwed down. Screws are driven straight through the panel, leaving no space for expansion or contraction.
Due to the ability of a standing seam metal roof to expand and contract freely, it is the preferred option for homeowners seeking a whole metal roof system for their house. Many homeowners like to utilize this metal roof to accent on front porches, side porches, back porches, and bay windows.
Metals That Are Frequently Used In Residential Metal Roofing
You now understand why a standing seam metal roof is the best option for residential roofing. The remainder of this article will discuss the most
frequently used metals for standing seam roof systems.
Steel Metal Roofing
Steel is the most common type of metal used for residential roofs. When you use standing seam metal roof panels, you can get them in 24 or 26 gauge steel.
Different gauges of steel panels have different thicknesses; the more gauges, the thinner they are; this means they have different thicknesses. Due to the thinness of the panel, they have a greater chance of getting oil canned, leading to leaks.
Copper Metal Roofing
For residential metal roofing, copper is also a good choice. There aren’t any gauges for copper. Instead, it comes in ounces like steel (16, 20, 30, 60, 90).
Most people use 16-ounce copper for their roofs. You can use copper to make a whole standing seam metal roof system, but it could cost you a lot of money.
Copper is used more as a decoration on luxury shingles, slate roofs, and cedar shake roofs because it doesn’t last as long as other types of roofs. Use it for roof flashing, chimney caps, covered porches, bay windows, and other things that need to be done with it.
Copper is a great addition to a roof, but it also lasts long. Afterwards, you won’t have to think about it again.
Stainless Steel Metal Roofing
While stainless steel isn’t as common as other types of metal roofing for homes, it is still an option. It’s the same with stainless steel. It comes in different gauges, just like steel.
It will look the same as galvanized metal, but it won’t rust (depending on where you live and the weather). Because of this, the metal roof panels won’t be painted with Kynar 500 or any other type of paint.
Stainless steel, like copper, is long-lasting roofing material. On the other hand, stainless steel is a stronger material than copper and 24 gauge steel.
It is less likely to be damaged by hail storms or other knocks on the metal roof panels. While a whole stainless steel metal roof system is available, it will be more costly than copper.
I suggest considering stainless steel as an accent material, similar to copper. But, in the end, it’s up to you and your budget.
How Long Does A Metal Roof Last?
Now you know the most common types of metal that are used in home roofing. Make sure you know that steel is the most common metal used for the whole roof. With a little extra money, you can get copper or stainless steel for your whole roof. You won’t ever have to worry about your roof again.
Jay Carter Roofing has been assisting Scarborough residents with their metal roofing requirements for over 20 years. We inform you and provide you with all of the knowledge you need to select which metal is best for you and your property. Whether for accent reasons or a whole metal roof system, you can rely on us to provide you with the curb appeal you need.
