Basics of Standing Seam Metal Roofs
For years, the only option for roofing materials was asphalt shingles. The were only a few other choices, and they weren't cost-effective.
And standing seam metal roofs were often unattainable for average homeowners. Most stand seam installations were done on commercial buildings or modern, avant-garde residential structures. But now, they're available for industrial, commercial, and even residential purposes.
Metal Roofing vs. Asphalt & Shingle Roofing
Asphalt and composition shingles have their advantages. For one, they're the least expensive. One problem with asphalt is that, being derived from petroleum, prices of the shingles do vary. Another problem is how shingles tend to fill gutters with shed minerals, and after a decade or so, they get worn-out.
Standing seam metal roofs are completely different. Not only is the type of material different but the size and shape of the material and its installation method are different, too. Many homeowners find that the higher initial cost of this type of roofing will pay off in the end because of its greater durability and reliability. Houses in your neighborhood with metal roofs most likely are of the standing seam variety. Continuous panels run from the ridge of the roof all the way down to the eaves. Between the panels are seams connected by fasteners which are raised above the level of the metal roofing. This is where we get the term standing seam, because the seam is raised or standing, as opposed to flush-mounted.
Seam Fasteners
These seam fasteners might be anywhere from 0.5" to 1.5" high. Because these fasteners are concealed, you only see a smooth continuous ridge extending from top to bottom.
Standing Seam Metal Roof Advantages
High Seams
One great advantage of standing seam metal roofs is contained in the name itself: seams, the weak point in any roof and a potential entry point for moisture, are raised above the level of the roofing panel. You can't say this for composition shingles.
Fewer Seams
Because the metal panels run unhindered from the top to the bottom of the roof, not only are there no horizontal seams but in total the roof has a far fewer number of seams. Tough: Yes, metal is tough--very tough--but it's not impervious to all hazards. The sheet metal in this type of roofing can be penetrated by heavy falling limbs or dented by a severe hailstorm.
"Cool Roof"
All metal roofing in general is considered a "cool roof" by the US Environmental Protection Agency. This is because metal roofing can be painted any color, including colors on the lighter end of the spectrum which will prevent solar heat gain.
Sleek Look
Standing seam roofs are perfect for certain types of contemporary or country-style houses. Due to the smooth, straight lines, these roofs give your house an "industrial" feeling, yet with a modern flair. These are not the rippled tin roofs that you might remember from warehouses of the past.
Colors
Metal comes in a decent array of colors: grays, browns, forest greens, earthy reds. Perhaps this isn't the full palette of colors as you might find at a paint store, but it's more than you'll find with composite/asphalt shingles.
Standing Seam Metal Roofing Disadvantages
Fewer Roofers
There are many roofing contractors who install conventional roofs, but far fewer contractors install metal roofing, and fewer still install them well. This means that you will be searching longer for a good roofer and that total project cost may be higher because competition in the market is lessened.
Not Good For Flatter Roofs
"Roof pitch" refers to the angle of the roof's slope. Certain types of metal roofs do not lend themselves well to flatter (or completely flat) pitches. Snap-lock panel metal roofs are not advisable for roofs with a pitch of 2:12 or less (2 feet of vertical rise for every 12 feet of horizontal rise). However, with a better quality mechanically seamed panel it is no problem to go to a 1/2:12 pitch. You can even bump the seams up to 2" with a butyl seal for those applications. It's important to note, too, that when you get to these lower pitches, you're also below the recommended minimum pitch even for conventional shingles. Generally, these safely go down to a 4:12 pitch, with some shingle manufacturers warranting their product down to 2:12.
Cost
Metal is considered a moderately-expensive roofing material (more expensive than conventional shingles, but less than high-end slate or copper). However, metal's higher cost can be amortized via its longer lifespan.
Our standing seam metal roofing panels are available in a variety of materials, coatings, colors, and gauges. Popular sheeting materials includes galvanized, stainless steel, and aluminum. Our standing seam coatings include vinyl plastisol, fluorocarbon, and siliconized polyester. View our color chart to view all the available metal panel colors. View the details of each standing seam roofing panel to get info on available metal panel gauges.
Call Flexospan at 800-245-0396 to discuss standing seam metal roof costs, weight, and installation. Our sales people can provide a timely quote for standing seam metal roof panels and accessories, such as snow guards, clips, girts, and rods.
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Metal Roofing and Siding Panels, Steel Purlins & Girts, Self-Storage and Industrial Metal Buildings
