Many consumers are unaware that metal roofing can be an attractive, energy-efficient alternative to traditional roofing. The peace of mind that comes with a metal roof stems from its lasting durability, its fire safety, high wind resistance, and energy efficiency. Metal roofs typically increase the value of a home in several ways - by having a long life, requiring only simple maintenance, and projecting a distinctive beauty. Classic Metal Roofs has been providing roofing solutions to residences and businesses for over 30 years.

1. Many consumers are unaware that metal roofing can be an
attractive, energy-efficient alternative to traditional roofing. The
peace of mind that comes with a metal roof stems from its lasting
durability, its fire safety, high wind resistance, and energy
efficiency. Metal roofs typically increase the value of a home in
several ways - by having a long life, requiring only simple
maintenance, and projecting a distinctive beauty.
There are generally two types of metal roofing products;
architectural ones, and structural ones. The architectural ones
serve two functions - accentuating architectural elements of the
building, and shedding water efficiently. These architectural
products are generally thinner, and are installed on roof decking,
which they pass their weight loads to. Structural roofing products, by contrast, actually support weight loads directly, passing them
through to the building's structural elements. Structural metal roofing is typically used for commercial buildings, warehouses, and the
like, and is only rarely used in residential applications.
Metal roofing can be chosen in a variety of "profiles", or form factors. Sheet Roofing (available in a wide variety of forms) and Standing
Seam (with long parallel vertical channels running from peak to eave) are the more traditional, highly recognizable ones. Newer form
factors have become quite popular, especially those mimicking the look of more traditional wood and asphalt shake and shingle roofs.
Metal roofing materials can even replicate the look of traditional tile or slate materials. With very close examination one can certainly
tell the difference, but what about from the front yard, or the curb? As distance increases, so does beauty, in the eye of the beholder!
Metal roofing materials are based on a variety of metals. Galvanized Steel, which is probably what comes to mind most readily when
most homeowners think about roofs, is quite popular. However, Galvalume Steel (base carbon/iron steel coated with an alloy of
aluminum and zinc), and Aluminum are also widespread in use. Copper is also an option, as is Zinc - both are expensive but highly
attractive. More recently-introduced specialty metals include Terne and TCS (both are combinations of multiple metals, made of either
carbon steel or stainless steel, coated with a zinc-tin alloy). In rare cases, even Titanium can even be used to construct a metal roof.
The primary differences between all of these metals is appearance, susceptibility to corrosion and staining, malleability, and cost.
Metal roofing products can be superior to other types from an energy efficiency standpoint, simply by reflecting more sunlight. This
reduces the surface temperature of the roof and decreases the amount of heat that is transferred into the building - reducing
requirements for cooling, particularly in summer months. Reflectivity of roofing products also can be enhanced through the use of
reflective pigments, a relatively recent development in the roofing market. This technology, first developed by the military to improve
camouflage in the infrared ranges, can reflect a much larger percentage of sunlight, even when it is formulated as darker colors.
Metal roofs can be installed over existing roofing materials, because of their relatively low weight. This can usually be done for older
composition shingles, or even wood shingles or shakes. Weight is one issue to consider when evaluating whether this is a desirable
approach, but it's important to take into account building codes and structural integrity of the building. One advantage of installing a
metal roof over existing roofing is that the existing roofing acts a sort of additional insulative layer for the building, making it more
energy efficient.
Classic Metal Roofs has been providing roofing solutions to residences and businesses for over 30 years – if you’re considering a roof
replacement, contact us and explore the many positive benefits that metal roofing has to offer you.
Classic Metal Roofs, LLC
264 Gleasondale Road
Stow, MA 01775
(978) 562-7770
http://classicmetalroofs.com/