Whether you notice watermarks in your ceiling or have cracked and curled shingles, the day will eventually come when it’s time for a new roof. And a metal roof is a quality choice when you want to upgrade your asphalt shingles.
Metal roofs are eco-friendly, energy-efficient, and far more durable than the standard asphalt shingle roof. Check out our guide to learn more about the benefits of a new metal roof, along with all the essential metal roofing materials you’ll need to get the job done.
Benefits of a New Metal Roof
If your current roof is made of asphalt shingles, you may have a bit of sticker shock when you price out a new metal roof. While it’s true that metal roofing materials cost more upfront, their durability and longevity make them an economical choice in the long run. Here are some of the top benefits of residential and commercial metal roofing materials.
1. Durability
Do you live in a region with high winds, drastic temperature changes, or humidity? If so, your asphalt shingles have probably taken a beating over the years, curling, cracking, or gathering mold and mildew. Fortunately, metal roofs are much better at standing up to strong winds and extreme weather. They’re also resistant to fire, rust, mold, and more.
2. Longevity
While the typical asphalt shingle roof lasts about 20 years, a metal roof may last two to three times longer, with a lifespan of up to 60 years—or even over 100 years for a zinc or copper roof.
3. Low-Maintenance
Don’t enjoy cleaning or replacing your asphalt shingles? Here’s some good news: Metal roofing requires little to no upkeep once installed. Even if you live in an area with heavy snowfall, your upkeep will still be minimal, with little worry about roof damage from snow.
4. Eco-Friendly
In today’s eco-conscious world, many homeowners are looking for greener, energy-efficient upgrades for their home, and a metal roof is just that. Metal roofing reflects solar heat more effectively than asphalt shingles, resulting in reduced energy bills. Additionally, they’re recyclable and last decades longer than asphalt shingles.
Required Metal Roofing Materials
You’re convinced that a metal roof is a great option for your home. So what do you need to install one? Here are the four essential metal roofing materials for any residential or commercial building.
1. Metal Eaves
Every metal roof starts with metal eaves, also known as eave drip or drip edge. This material ensures that rain and snow run off the roof and fall farther away from the house, protecting the fascia along the eave line of the home.
2. Metal Panels
Metal panels are at the heart of every metal roofing system. These panels come in a variety of materials, from tin and copper to aluminum and steel. Each type of metal has its benefits, so it’s important to do your research to identify the right option for your needs.
3. Roof Vents
Roofing vents are a vital part of any metal roof, allowing heat to escape from the attic and cool air to come in. A properly ventilated roof will keep your home more energy-efficient and save your home from moisture damage.
4. Flashing
Flashing is essential to making sure your roof is weathertight. Make sure some of the metal trim components fit under the metal panels to ensure that water doesn’t pool on the roof, causing bigger problems down the road.
Metal Roof Tools and Accessories
Along with the basic materials like panels and trim, there are a few metal roofing accessories and tools you’ll need to complete the installation of your new roof. Here are a few of the most important items to have ready for the job.
- Hand Seamers: Required for bending and straightening sheet metal edges, or for moving metal from one part of the roof to another.
- Hemming Tools: A steel tool used for properly installing metal panels along the eave line.
- TurboShears: A power drill attachment that turns a drill into a metal-cutting shear, ideal for making curved or square cuts on sheet metal.
- Snips: A tool used for making 1.25-inch cuts in metal, which comes in right- and left-hand styles.
- Ridge Venting: A UV-resistant, non-woven, ventilated roll material used for ridge cap applications. Essential for roofs with a pitch of 4/12 or less.
- Butyl Tape: This sealant can withstand extreme temperatures and is ideal for using on metal roof endlaps, vents, flashings, and more.
- Caulking: Another versatile sealant that adheres to damp or dry surfaces and stays flexible in most conditions. Ideal for sidelaps, skylights, and more.
- Closures: This polyethylene foam is effective for closing the openings on the peak of the roof or along the eaves of the roof.
- Goosenecks: Get one-way venting from the kitchen or bathroom with this curved, rounded vent.
Metal Roofing Paint
The variety of metal roof color options available is another key benefit of metal roofs. Unlike asphalt shingles, which come in a limited range of colors, metal roofs come in just about every color of the rainbow.
1. Neutrals
If you’re looking for a classic color that blends in with surrounding homes, a neutral color is a good bet. Choose Polar White, Regal White, or Snow White for a bright finish, or opt for Light Stone or Saddle Tan when you want a more natural-looking rooftop.
2. Bold Colors
Want your home to stand out? Choose a bold color to give your roof a unique look that will appeal for decades to come. Metal roof shingles come in timeless colors like Colony Green, Hawaiian Blue, and Rustic Red.
3. Metallics
When you’re really looking to embrace the industrial look, opt for a metallic paint that will make a statement. Premium colors for metal panels include Copper Metallic, Silver, and Pre-Weathered Galvalume.
Shop Metal Roofing Materials Today
Installing a new metal roofing system means you’ll enjoy the highest level of durability and longevity, which requires little maintenance and is good for the earth, too. Start the process today by shopping for metal roofing panels and accessories at 1st Coast Metal Roofing Supply. Contact us to learn more about our products or to ask any questions you might have about installing a metal roof.
