A home is a complex structure designed to protect its occupants from the elements. Unfortunately, this is not always possible if the roof is failing. One reason that this occurs is that many contractors tend to use a budget grade product to cover the roof. This is rarely the best solution since these materials may dry out and break as they age. Plus, low quality shingles are usually thin, and this makes it easier for them to rip or tear during a storm. Thankfully, there are options available to avoid this situation such as fiberglass roofing, fiber-cement tiles, and the often recommended Metal roofs.
It can be difficult to determine what sort of metal roof will suit the task at hand. Most property owners will not want to use materials such as corrugated steel, so manufacturers provide them with alternatives. The most common of these are stamped steel. This roofing option comes in sheets and is designed for quick installation and durable coverage. Stamping the steel allows for the creation of specific patterns in the metal such as simulated Mediterranean tiles.
The durability of this material comes from the strength of the steel and the material(s) used to protect it. The best option for many folks is galvanized steel. This coating comes as either a zinc or zinc/aluminum alloy where the addition of aluminum provides protection in coastal areas where the salt content is high.
If the property owner is looking for a bit of a style, then they may opt for a baked on finish. This treatment allows the manufacturer to offer Metal roofs in a variety of colors. If that is not enough of a change, then the roofing can also be purchased in different styles. That is, the roofing may simulate the look of wood shake, clay tiles and a variety of other products including the typical asphalt shingle.
The main benefits of using a metal roof are extreme durability and reasonably simple repairs. In fact, most steel roofs need few repairs except when the flashing or other roofing details require a sealant. This is possible because the steel overlaps and keeps the water away. However, the best part about steel roofing could be the long warranty. Most manufacturers will provide a warranty that lasts for fifty years.
