PART 1: WHAT’S A STANDING SEAM METAL ROOF?

Everybody wants good roofing options. However, defining what is good can be tricky. For some people, good is affordable. For others, it’s reliable performance. In many instances, it’s difficult to find roofing that embodies both definitions. Well, that was until standing seam metal roofing came along.

WHAT IS IT?

Like the standard metal option, a standing seam metal roof is made up of broad metal panels. However, it does not have the “wavy” appearance that corrugated metal roofs have. Instead, it features smooth flat surfaces divided by raised or standing seams, where individual panels overlap. To achieve this characteristic look, the edge of each metal panel is slightly raised by 1 to 1.5 inches. Metal panels used for roofing can either have their raised edges formed during production or on-site using a mobile forming machine. When put next to each other, these raised panels come together to form a small ridged seam. Fasteners underneath the ridge help keep the panels together without affecting the roof’s appearance.

PART 1: WHAT’S A STANDING SEAM METAL ROOF?

Standing seam metal roofs vary in terms of width, although most panels are between 12 to 19 inches wide. To avoid moisture-related problems such as rust formation, panels are made of galvanized metal or aluminum. This makes standing seam metal roofs suitable even in areas that receive plenty of rainfall, a function improved upon by the use of a waterproofing membrane and insulation underneath the panels to prevent leaks and provide better insulation.

Standing seam metal roofs are durable on their own but are usually coated with a protective layer of paint to bolster its defenses. This also improves the appearance of the metal roof though, with finishes available to meet your personal preferences and complement the overall design of your property. Unlike other metal roofing options, like shingles, however, a standing seam metal roof is not designed to mimic the look of other roofing materials.

Like what you’re seeing? Standing seam metal roofing is a great option but how does it compare to other roofing materials? Read on to find out!

PART 2: WHY IS STANDING SEAM METAL ROOFING A GOOD CHOICE?

One of the best ways to understand what a roofing option can offer you is to see how it fares compared to other roofing choices in the market today. It gives you a point of comparison so you can paint a better picture of how standing seam metal roofing will perform. Here’s a rundown of its strong points, detailed in comparisons against other roofing materials:

APPEARANCE

Because of its smooth surface and vertical lines, standing seam metal roofing gives a home a clean, simple look. It is great for modern-styled houses favoring long, clean lines, complemented by finishes that bring out the roofing option’s beauty. Standing seam metal roofing can incorporate both matte and glossy finishes, until porous roofing options like brick tile that mostly incorporate matte effects.

DURABILITY

Standing seam metal roofs are one of the most durable materials out there, especially when it comes to resisting constant wear and tear caused by the weather. Constant changes in temperature can cause other roofing materials to warp, crack, or get brittle over time but this isn’t the case with standing seam roofing. Panels adapt to temperature changes, expanding and contracting without getting warped. Additionally, metal roofing is also fire resistant, unlike wood shakes, making it a great option in areas where wildfires are common. Metal and water are not the best of friends but standing seam metal roofing can withstand the worst of rains much like asphalt shingles when protective coatings are used. It also won’t erode over time, so it has no problem receiving a lot of water runoff.

PART 2: WHY IS STANDING SEAM METAL ROOFING A GOOD CHOICE?

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Metal roofing has higher level of heat conductivity than asphalt shingles or any other roofing materials. This means it gets hotter than other options but at the same time metal does not retain heat for long. This means standing seam metal roofing cools down more easily than other roofing materials, allowing it to control the amount of heat a structure absorbs, keeping it to a minimum. This aids in stabilizing indoor temperature, optimizing energy use because HVAC systems are not overworked.

Any questions about standing seam metal roofing? We wrap up this e-book series in the next part by addressing common concerns about

the roofing option.

PART 3: STANDING SEAM METAL ROOFING FAQ

As standing seam metal roofs become more and more popular, it’s natural that some homeowners would like to clarify some concerns about this type of roofing. To get you started, here are a few of the most frequently asked questions about standing seam metal roofs:

Q: What’s the average lifespan of a standing seam metal roof?

A: Standing seam metal roofs are designed to last for decades, but that depends on the local climate and other factors such as frequent storms or quality of installation. Some estimates put the average metal roof lifespan between 40 and 60 years.

Q: Do I need to completely strip off my old roof?

A: Depending on your old roof, it’s possible to install standing seam metal roofing over it. This doesn’t just speed up installation but it also reduces the amount of material that need to be disposed afterwards. Light roofing materials such as asphalt shingles don’t have to be torn down, but something bulkier like concrete tile may have to be removed so it won’t affect your standing seam metal roof’s final look.

PART 3: STANDING SEAM METAL ROOFING FAQ

Q: Won’t this type of roofing turn my home into a lightning rod?

A: Contrary to popular belief, using a metal roof does not increase the chances of your home getting struck by lightning. Lightning is more likely to strike something taller regardless if it’s made of metal or otherwise. In fact, a metal roof offers better protection from lightning because it can dissipate its electrical charge, and it won’t catch fire like wood shakes or shingles.

Q: Doesn’t a metal roof easily dent?

A: Another common misconception associated with metal panels is that they dent easily when you walk on them. However, standing seam roof panels are strong enough to allow a full-grown person to walk on them during roof maintenance. Not that you’ll have a lot of reasons to go up a metal roof because it doesn’t require that much maintenance in the first place.

West Side Roofing

5360 W. 130th Street Brook Park, Ohio 44142

216-898-1900

WestsideRoofing.com