10 Apr Best metal roof for residential use
Metal roof for residential homes is one of the most popular solutions nowadays. This type of roof offers numerous advantages to every homeowner – minimum maintenance costs, long life expectancy, and more. If you are interested in a metal roof, in this article we will discuss in detail different types of metal roofing systems that are available on the market.
Importance of choosing the right metal roof for residential use
The best metal roof for residential has several positive qualities:
- fire resistance;
- long service life;
- fast installation;
- energy-saving;
It is worth choosing the right type of roof for residential areas which will meet all your requirements. You can find different types of residential roofs on the market. In particular, the metal roof is the most popular. The importance of choosing the right type of roof is that it will serve you faithfully for many years if you make the right decision.
Types of metal roofs for residential use
If you need a new residential roofing, the best choice is a metal roof. Metal is a rather broad term. The material is divided into several types. Metal roofing is often made of aluminum, copper, and steel, but variations are also possible in stainless steel, zinc alloys, and more. But those mentioned above three are the most popular. Different types of metal roofing for the residential sector will be discussed in this article. Each type of metal has its characteristics, differences, and other parameters.
Copper
Copper roofs have been used in construction for quite a long time. Copper metal roofs boast an impressive service life (more than 100 years), are energy-efficient because they are UV-reflective, and are quite aesthetically pleasing, which is why the copper material allows for a variety of different residential roof styles.
At the same time, it should be noted that copper is quite expensive. It is also unsuitable for houses in hot climates, as the material can shrink and expand, requiring special roof maintenance and care. As it is used, greenish marks (patina) may appear on the copper surface, which can cause stains on siding, wood, and other surfaces due to rainwater runoff.
Aluminium
Aluminium is another great metal roofing option for residential homes, as this material is highly resistant to rust. In addition, the material is recyclable, lightweight, and easy to install. Compared to a copper roof, it is more affordable. Aluminium, however, cannot fully retain its original color throughout its lifetime. Dents may also form on it, and aluminum can shrink and expand over time due to temperature changes.
Steel
When considering the most popular types of residential roofing systems, steel rounds out the top three. The material is durable and can cope with corrosion and various climatic conditions. In addition, a steel roof boasts an excellent payback period. Steel is not characterized by expansion and contraction under the influence of temperature. In addition, this material is available in various colours and a large range of profiles.
Definition and characteristics of residential metal roofs
Different types of residential metal roofs present certain characteristics. Each metal roof has the following characteristics, which should be considered when considering different types of residential types of roofs and when selecting the most suitable one.
Profile
Metal roofing for residential houses comes in two types. The first is panels with exposed fasteners and the second – panels with hidden fasteners.
Steel thickness and gauge
Metal panels can range in thickness from 29 to 24 – this is the gauge of the material. If you want to mount a metal roof on a residential house’s wooden base, buying quite thick panels of 24 gauge is unnecessary. At the same time, do not consider a relatively thin 29-gauge roof because its strength parameters are somewhat inferior. Many roofs are made of 25, 26-gauge metal sheets. At the same time, consider that the thick steel 24-gauge will cost more than the lighter 26-gauge.
Paint and finish
Often a metal roof will have a galvanized base to which the paint is applied. Different paint finishes are available – Polyester, SMP, PVDF, GreenCoat Pural. The first coating option is best suited for lightweight metal of 29 or 26 gauge. It is a fairly economical option for painting but fades quickly. PVDF and GreenCoat Pural paints are one of the best solutions. This coating stays strong, and the paint has bright shades. PVDF paint is excellent only for metal starting from 24 gauge.
Factors to consider when choosing a metal roof for residential use
The best residential roofing must fulfill several requirements. There are several important factors to consider when choosing the best roofing option.
Budget
There are a variety of metal roofing panels at quite a wide price range. At the same time, if the price is a principal characteristic, you should pay attention to the profiled sheeting. However, if the price is not so important, and quality comes first, then a standing seam roof made of zinc or copper is the best solution.
The desired look
Any metal roof boasts style and a unique look. If you’re interested in a roof with a traditional design, then metal tiles are the best solution. Copper panels are the way to go if striking looks are at the forefront. The modern look will allow you to recreate a standing seam.
Service life
Each type of metal roof features high durability. In general, with the installation of this roof, you never have to worry about the roof’s condition again or its replacement.
Location of the house
A metal roof is a right solution for almost any situation if your home is on the coast or near a forest. Still, it’s worth considering that if your home is near the ocean, it’s worth choosing metal that won’t corrode from the salt in the atmosphere. The best anti-corrosion properties are aluminum, and zinc.
