Which Types of Metal Roofing are There?
- By: Allison Plank
- On:
Metallic roofs installed by metal roof contractors aren’t all made using the exact same materials and products. Many of them are primarily made from high-quality aluminum. A metal roof might also be made using copper, zinc, and other familiar metals. Lots of household products are created using stainless steel, including metal roofs. Visually, the differences between these roofs won’t always be obvious.
Some homeowners think that metal roofs always look modern. They might worry about adding a metallic roof to an older home. That said, many metal roofs have a subtle appearance that can complement many homes. A metal roof on a Cape Cod house won’t necessarily look out of place. That said, a sage green metal roof will usually look very metallic, which might be what some homeowners want. Other metal roofs may not look very different from roofs made using other materials, especially at a distance.
Of course, people also won’t always contact metal roof contractors because they specifically want to replace their current roofs. You can get some of the famous benefits of high-quality metal roofs by installing a new metal roof accent instead. Adding metal panels to one of your roof’s sections may strengthen the entire roof. A standing seam metal roof accent may also look decorative.
A metal roof is one of the most popular roof types available. Many have taken to this form of roofing for its low price. Having the right type of roof is essential for providing you with years of protection. In addition, a metal roof allows homeowners to choose from a wide variety of roof colors. Homeowners enjoy the typically fast time that a metal roof is installed. Metal roofing contractors will provide you with the right metal roof for your needs. In this post, you will learn about metal roofing materials and profiles.
Aluminum Roofing
This type of roof is more common with residential homes. It is imperative that an aluminum roof is properly coated to provide protection. One potential drawback of aluminum roofs is that they can be sometimes prone to dings. Aluminum roofs tend to run a bit more expensive than steel roofs. However, the cheapest metal roof types often cost 30 percent less than the cheapest tile or slate roof.
Steel Roofs
A steel roof is the most popular choice for metal roofing. One advantage of a steel roof is that it is extremely durable. It is common for metal roofs to last upwards of 50 years as long as they are properly maintained. Steel roofs are often the most common type that metal roofing contractors install.
Copper Roofing
A copper roof will never show any signs of rust. However, a copper roof is often an expensive job to have done. Many homeowners prefer the lower price that comes with either steel or aluminum. Copper, like aluminum, is a lighter metal which places less stress on a home’s foundation.
Which Profile of Metal Roof to Choose
Metal roofing is a popular choice because of how durable and inexpensive it is. Another benefit of metal roofing is its resistance to fire. One additional concern is which profile of metal roofing you will want. The profile is how the metal is cut. Different profiles give the roof a slightly different overall look. Metal roofing contractors will work with you to ensure the right profile is chosen.
- AP Panel: This panel type is constructed with durability in mind. An AP panel is often used for residential roofs. The look of an AP Panel roof is made for those who want a roof with fewer metal ridge than the U Panel.
- CF Panel: One difference with this system is that panels are placed together by a joint system where pieces slide in place. CF Panels work better for homes where the existing roof is removed.
- U Panel: The U Panel roof profile features more dips than the previous types. It is common for U Panel to be the heaviest of metal roof types but only by a small amount. A huge benefit of the U Panel is that they easily installed over an existing roof.
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It is wise to call a metal roofing contractor to complete this type of home improvement. Many studies have shown that homeowners go to the hospital each year due to home improvement related injuries. Having a professional install a metal roofing gives you increased peace of mind. In many cases, a metal roof is placed onto a home in a matter of days.
In summary, there are a few things to think about when choosing a metal roof type. Metal roofing contractors can help you determine which roof type is best. Research shows that a metal roof will last nearly three to seven times longer than a roof made with shingles. An aluminum roof is a lightweight yet durable roofing type. Steel roofing is the most popular type of metal roof. Copper is used less extensively as a roofing type, mainly because of its higher price. Choosing a metal roof for your home means choosing a low cost and durable material.