Not long ago seeing a metal roof in residential areas was the exception rather than the rule. Today it is not uncommon to see several metal roofs on the same street. When a person knows what they are looking for, it becomes clear that the vast majority of these ceilings are installed using inferior materials and methods. Not all metal roofs are created equal, but they all come at a premium price. Some metal roofs can be up to 25% less than a premium roof, but will include damage such as exposed fasteners that change color, rust and potentially leak; low-quality paint that fades and discolors; wooden strapping with the risk of rotting on contact with water, and cannot be walked on. Wood strapping roofs are inferior in wind resistance due to the way they are attached directly to the top strap that attaches to the bottom strap that is attached to the roof. Some of these roofs require maintenance. Some companies charge an annual maintenance fee, contrary to the premise of why people buy metal roofs.
What Makes a Premium Metal Roof? One might wonder. All of the best roofs available are four-way interlocking systems where one panel locks to the next on all four sides. These roofing systems do not use wood strapping, do not have exposed fasteners, and most are walkable.
Several companies that claim to be a four-way blocking system are simply not truthful, they fail to mention that their valleys are not blocked and they just sit on top hiding the miters and allowing water to seep underneath. Snow guards are necessary on metal roofs and are purchased by most companies from a supplier, they are often plastic that will discolor, weaken, and break, as well as destroying the aesthetics of your home.
When deciding on a metal roof, it is always desirable to deal directly with a manufacturer who installs it and takes responsibility for labor and materials. This is extremely important because most roofs come with a fifty year warranty. When dealing with a dealer rather than directly with the manufacturer, the labor part of the warranty is on the dealer and the manufacturer’s material. If the manufacturer is in another country and the dealer disappears, you basically have an unsecured roof.
Few people realize the attractive value of their roof. The roof is often the most important feature facing the street. Putting the wrong roof on can literally destroy your home’s curb appeal. On the other hand, a beautiful roof makes an impressive difference and sets your home apart from other cookie cutter houses in the area.