Steep Slope Metal Roofing

A steep slope roof has a slope greater than 3 inches of rise per one foot of horizontal distance. The steeper a slope is,  the more difficult the roofing installation is. However, there is an increasing amount of new commercial construction with steep slope roofing.  The reason is metal roofing.  Not only is metal roofing easier to install on a steep slope when compared to other materials, the effort is rewarded by the metal roof's extended life cycle.  That's one reason why modern building architects are showing a preference to the steep slope / metal roofing combination.  Other reasons include the complimentary aesthetics, seam and pattern options, an almost unlimited color palette, and confidence in durability based on a proven track record. 

Another Name for Metal Roofing

There is a VAST variety of metal roofing materials and colors to consider if you're planning to add a metal roof to your home, and it lasts MUCH longer than traditional roofing materials. Perhaps the only reason you're hesitating is the name: Metal Roofing.  It probably brings to mind long slabs of primary colored metal bolted to your roof.  No!  Get rid of that image.  Today's metal roofing is as far away from that as a Model-T is from a 2011 Indy Car.  First big change is color.  The rich, intense, deep, modern colors of metal roofing make it an enhancement to your home's architecture.  Then there's the material.  Just as modern cars don't rust like the Model-T did, neither do metal roofs.  They are the result of an engineered, researched process designed to combat the elements and time. 

So what's a good name for metal roofing?   Perhaps "Comprehensive Roofing."  After all, a metal roof brings all the best qualities of roofing to one place.  Or perhaps it would be better with a stylish French flair, a "Metalique Roof."  Or the Spanish for roof works well all by itself, "Techo."  Either way, the idea is that "Comprehensive Metalique Techos" are not simply metal roofing.  They're your best choice in roofing today.

Are there "brand name" metal roofing manufacturers?

Yes.  Your installer should be able to to show you a full range of colors and custom options that are available.  This is something that is readily available from all of the top level metal roofing manufacturers.  If your choices are limited, it probably indicates that the installer is using an off-brand product.  Ask for manufacturer literature.  Your installer will be glad that you asked - he chose the product for specific reasons and he wants to share them with you.  Also check out the warranty.  All established manufacturers fully back their products for 30 or more years.  If you Google the term "metal roof" the industry's top manufacturers will show up on the first few pages.

Can the color of my roof save energy?

Here's the answer straight from those who know:

http://www.newton.dep.anl.gov/askasci/eng99/eng99323.htm
http://www.energy.ca.gov/title24/coolroofs/
http://www.energystar.gov/ia/partners/product_specs/program_reqs/roofs_prog_req.pdf
http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/pdfs/cool_roof_fact_sheet.pdf

Can I re-paint metal roofing?

There are several quality levels and coating grades of metal roofing.  For many owners of warrantied metal roofs installed in recent years, re-painting is not a decision they'll need to make in their lifetime.  But take a drive through the country and chances are you'll see agricultural buildings in need of a freshly painted roof.  These roofs are older and pre-date the technology incorporated into modern metal building materials. 

Yes, you can re-paint a metal roof.  If you are doing it yourself, follow the preparation directions given by the paint manufacturer.  When you're done, it'll look fresh and new... and there aren't many roofing materials you can "rejuvenate" like that!

Top 10 results: Metal Roofing Information

If someone Googles "Metal Roofing Information," here are the results they'd see today on the first page.  Are they the listings you'd expect to see?

http://www.newenglandmetalroof.com/research-metal-roofing-prices.html

http://www.newenglandmetalroof.com/

http://www.themetalinitiative.com/

http://www.metalroofingtips.com/

http://www.mcelroymetal.com/content/residential/

http://www.metalroofingsource.com/installation_pro.htm

http://www.metalroofingsource.com/roof_measurement.htm

http://www.coolmetalroofing.org/

http://www.designandbuildwithmetal.com/MediaKit/Items/metal_roofing_information.aspx

http://ezinearticles.com/?Metal-Roofing-Installation---All-The-Information-You-Need!&id=606118

Choosing your metal roofing contractor

Here are a few things to check when selecting a metal roofing contractor.  These are the minimum basics you need to verify:

Does the firm have liability insurance - get a copy of the Certificate of Insurance and then call to verify. 
Is the contractor recommended by manufacturers?
Does the contractor have references from past customers?
Is the contractor familiar with local building codes?

Will metal roofing rust?

Metal roofing systems have come a long way in the past twenty years.  They are manufactured to be durable and long lasting.  Almost all steel metal roofing has a scientifically researched and tested coating made of zinc, or zinc with aluminum.  This extra layer is chemically bonded to the steel during the manufacturing process.  It stops rust from forming.  Paint formulated for harsh environments, often for specific geographic areas, is applied over the rust-preventing metallic coating.  Color is long lasting.  The panels do not rust.  

Is metal roofing heavier than shingles?

Metal roofing, on average, can weigh up to 3 pounds per square foot. The weight on your roof will depend on the style you choose, the gauge of the metal,  and the panel's profile.  Metal roofing is light compared  with other systems. For example, asphalt shingles can weigh up 3.5 pounds per square foot, and clay or concrete tiles up to 10 pounds per square foot.

Do metal roofs expand and contract?

Metal expands and contracts as it warms and cools. Most new metal roofing products have fastening systems that accommodate movement.

What is Galvalume TM

Developed by BIEC International Inc., Galvalume is a 55% Aluminum - 45% Zinc alloy coating for steel. Metal roofing is one of the largest applications for Galvalume.  It is also used for automotive, appliances, and in other industries where its corrosion resistance and high heat reflectivity is required.

The Galvalume coating  is applied using a continuous hot-dip process.

Galvalume metal roofing brings together the qualities of aluminum and zinc.  The combination doubles the corrosion resistance of galvanized metal roofing alone. The aluminum-zinc coating also provides corrosion resistance and heat reflectivity. It enhances bare edge protection and helps make possible the multiple forms and shapes required of metal roofing.

Unpainted, it is silver-like.  Most often it is available painted.