What types of metal roofing residential options are available for the average homeowner? Sure they are both economically and eco-friendly, requiring less maintenance and absorbing energy costs, but what styles are best for your home? There are a variety of types from aluminum to galvalume steel or even copper. Each has unique characteristics that make them the best choice for your residence.
The Aluminum Roof
Aluminum roofing is a long-term durable and lightweight option for your home. It doesn’t rust. This makes it ideal for home on the coast. Because of new prepainted types of metal roofing residential choices, you can customize your roof to match the style and architecture of your home. Needless to say, this eco-friendly roof is usually made out of over ninety percent recycled material. That is the amount of aluminum found in over one thousand soda cans. You can feel confident that your aluminum roof will be beneficial to both you and the environment.
Galvanized Steel
Your galvanized steel roof is made of a base of carbon and iron steel. An additional coating of zinc is added. The coating offers additional protection against harsh weather like snow and ice. If you are looking for lower initial costs, the galvanized steel roofing is often less expensive than the aluminum roofing. The thickness of the zinc coating will help the steel to remain rust-free for a longer period of time. There are a variety of tiles available in galvanized steel, including pre-painted shingles. Unlike aluminum, homes on the coast should not select galvanized steel due to rusting. This is an enduring material, however. The recycled content of galvanized steel is typically around thirty percent.
Galvalume Steel
If you want to choose a steel roof for your home, you can opt for galvalume steel, which is coated with a special alloy of zinc and aluminum. This makes it more resistant than galvanized steel roofing, although it is more prone to microcracks over time. This is through a process called “tension bend staining”, and can lead to long-term deterioration if not repaired. The recycled content of galvalume steel is also around thirty percent, though its cost is more than galvanized steel.
Copper Accents
If you want an exquisite metal roof, copper is a very flashy way to show your style. Copper is typically more of an accent material due to its very high cost. Over time a blue-green patina will result from precipitation. It can take about a decade for this to form on new copper roofs. The patina provides extra protection against weather and salt spray. While some homeowners may protect the flashy finish of the copper roof, most opt to allow it to naturally age, giving it its signature look. Besides copper roofing, some other interesting options include stainless steel, titanium, and rolled zinc. Most of these residential homes are custom designed by an expert architect.
Once you choose the right roofing material for your home, you can decide whether to use shingles, tiles, shake, or slate. These give your home a more traditional look will still using eco-friendly metal roofing. These options give your home a textured look that is quite attractive. Another very popular option is the standing seam, which is modern in look. Choose the roofing style that best fits your home.
