Metal roofs have become a viable option for many homeowners interested in a long-term roofing solution. This material is no longer limited to commercial projects. Metal roofs have become a reliable roofing material for residential structures.
A metal roof is a long-lasting material that can last for 50 years or more with minimal maintenance or repairs. When installed correctly, they will not sustain damage from seasonal weather conditions. This material can even withstand wind gusts of up to 140 miles per hour. Additionally, it also provides fire resistance and energy efficiency, reducing cooling costs by 10-25%.
Perhaps the most exciting feature of a metal roof for many homeowners is the wide variety of types, styles, colors. Each one can make both visual and structural difference to your home. However, it can get challenging to choose a style when you have all these options to consider. So, let’s look at the different metal roofing styles out there to narrow down your choices.
Standing Seam
Standing seam metal roofs are usually the first thing that comes to mind when metal roofs are mentioned. Many homeowners go for this style of metal roofing because of its sleek appearance, life expectancy, and weatherproof construction.
Standing seam metal roofs get their name from the connections between the metal panels that are raised. The metal panels run from the ridge down to the roof’s edge. At the edge of each panel, seams that are typically ½-inch to 1-1/2-inches tall connects to the next panel. These seams are designed to interlock with one another without exposing any fasteners.
Compared to traditional roofs, their installation differs as the metal panels can fit together. Additionally, standing seam metal roofing provides a long list of benefits. The standing seam creates a snug and solid covering that allows the panels to move under thermal expansion. This helps them to last longer and reduce the wear and tear on the roof deck.
The vertical seam creates a sleek, modern, timeless look that looks good on all kinds of houses. This type of roofing also comes in various heights, lengths, and colors customized to match each homeowner’s specific preferences.
Shake-Inspired
Roofing shakes, also known as wooden shingles, are a typical roofing style that has been used on homes across the globe for centuries. The old version of shake-style roofing was made by splitting a log. Back then, wood materials were abundant that it was practical to use this material for both residential and commercial buildings alike.
While many are drawn to this style’s classical look, they are held back by its high cost and high maintenance requirements. However, recent developments in the roofing industry allow roofs to have the charm and character of hand-split-split wood shakes at a more affordable price point.
These days, you’ll be able to find shake-inspired metal roofing. This style of metal roofing may not be as watertight as standing seam roofing, but it can help you protect your home for decades if it’s professionally and adequately installed.
Tile-Inspired
Tile roofing is another popular roofing style, especially in warmer climates. It’s a type of roofing that is solely composed of natural materials like clay or concrete. Recently, you’ll find metal roofing options inspired by the design of tile roofing.
Tile-inspired metal roofing is far more durable than its clay or concrete counterpart. It can put up a fight against the wind, fire, rain, and hail. It is also low maintenance, cost-effective, and one of the most economically friendly metal roof styles.
Slate-Inspired
Slate metal roof profiles are another unique metal roofing style that has become more common as well. Slate roofs are often called a “forever roof” since homeowners usually only need to install one in their lifetime. It is recognized as an elegant roofing material that enhances the architectural structure and maintains its appearance over the years.
The only problems with traditional slate roofs are their heaviness, costliness, difficulty to work with. Slate is a material that weighs a ton, which can put additional stress on a roof. There’s also difficulty installing slate roofs as fewer contractors and companies know how to install this material properly.
Even when you find a slate roof specialist, you will likely have to pay a lot more for such specialized services. Add this to the fact that natural stone is a costly material. You’ll spend more on slate roofs than other roofing materials.
These days, metal roofing manufacturers have developed metal roofing products that mimic slate roofing look and style. The difference is slate-inspired metal roofing is much easier to install and costs much less comparatively. It’s a very new style that offers the same durability and aesthetic level without putting additional weight on your roof or drawing extra dollars out of your wallet.
Fahey Roofing Contractors has the experienced and skilled contractors you need to help you with any necessary roof repairs and roof replacement. We serve various areas in West Virginia and Ohio. If you have more questions, visit our website today or contact us at (304) 826-1323 for West Virginia and (740) 523-0380 for Ohio to learn more.