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What is a Standing Seam Metal Roof?

standing-seam-metal-roofConsider a standing seam metal roof as an energy efficient and attractive option for your home. In the past only traditional roofing materials like cedar shingles or asphalt were available. Now recycled metal roofing is a viable option for many homeowners. It is a durable and long-lasting roof that can last for as long as half a century. While there are many options for metal roofing, the standing seam design remains very popular in both commercial and residential construction.

The Basics

Unlike shingles, the standing seam metal roof has the seams higher than a traditional roof. It is above the level of the roofing. Seams are the weakest place on any roof. Having it higher, instead of being flush-mounted, is a saver option. This gives the type of roof its name – standing. This reduces damage and deterioration due to moisture over the life of the roof. Additionally, there are fewer seams. Homeowners can select almost any color for their roofs.

Components

There are several key components in a standing seam. Hidden seam fasteners connect the panels. Steel or aluminum panels make up the main part of the roof. Pre-formed panels are manufactured in a factory. Those that are considered “site-formed” are made from rolls of metal. The contractors will run the rolls through forming machines. The job of these machines is to essentially cut the individual metal panels that will make up the roof.

Durability

Unlike asphalt roofing, metal roofing is a very durable and long-lasting material. It is energy-efficient and can handle the elements. However, watch for dents caused by inclement weather like hailstorms. Metal roofing also protects against fire in many instances.

Cost

While a metal roof does cost more than traditional asphalt roofing, there are many benefits including long-lasting durability and additional safety from fire. Consider the costs of regular repairs and maintenance for asphalt roofing versus the minimal maintenance costs of metal roofing. Enjoy the benefits of having a metal roof for decades to come.

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Is an Eco-Tile Roof Right for You?

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When considering long-term options for your business or home, consider the benefits of Eco-Tile metal roofing. This popular industry solution has a number of distinct benefits over traditional roofing options that can save you time, maintenance, and costs over the course of the buildings lifetime.

Quick Installation

Eco-Tile roofing can be installed relatively quickly. This metal roofing solution is a modular sheet. This innovation means that you save money in installation costs and labor. The quick assembly also means less time for human error, ensuring that you will have the highest quality roof for decades to come. Assembly is simple and cost-effective. In fact, Eco-Tiles are ideal for the experienced do-it-yourself homeowner.

Additionally, homeowners do not have to worry about the costs and labor associated with removing the older damaged roofing. Instead, you can fit the Eco-Tiles directly on the older tiles. Save on labor costs significantly.

 Energy Efficient

Besides being an overall cost-saving and time-saving roofing solution, Eco-Tiles can provide a lightweight option to maintain steady temperatures through sweltering summers and freezing winters. Add extra insulation for rooms that are more susceptible to extreme changes in weather.

Long Lasting

These tiles can last for almost half a century. While at the outset they may cost more than a traditional asphalt roof, building owners do not need to worry about replacing the roof several times over the course of their lifetime. Building owners do not need to worry about inclement weather and extreme weather conditions. However, there are some minor issues with dents that may occur during extreme hail storms. Speak with your contractor about purchasing thicker materials to prevent dents and natural wrinkling. This may be the only roof you will need to purchase during your entire life.

Versatile

Metal roofing is available in a wide variety of colors and styles. A wide variety of colors from red and browns to dark greens and even charcoal can be customized for every building owner’s unique tastes. Speak with your contractor about options for windows and other custom structures.

Enjoy the versatility, durability, and beauty of Eco-Tile roofing. It is the ideal roofing solution for any commercial or residential building.

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What You Didn’t Know About Metal Roof Installation

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Thinking about metal roof installation for your home or business? What are the costs? Can you avoid the waste and cost of removing your old asphalt shingle roof? Should you hire professional constrictors or try to install the metal roofing on your own? Let’s consider some of the key benefits and challenges of installing a metal roof.

Installing Over an Old Roof

Perhaps one of the more appealing benefits of metal roof installation is that it is possible to install a new steel roof over a shingle roof. As long as you keep to the building codes in your area, it is possible to avoid tearing off the old roof.

Metal roofing is a lightweight, durable option that does not add additional weight to the structure of the home. Because of this, layering the new metal roof over old shingles can save you money and hassle. Additionally, installing over the shingle roof will reduce the noise that is often associated with steel roofing. Before installing, be sure to contact the local building department to review code requirements in your area.

A Lifetime Investment

Asphalt shingles require replacement every ten to twenty years. However, metal roofing can last a lifetime, up to seventy years. The roof is often guaranteed for thirty to fifty years, depending on the warranty. The steel shingle system is often preferred over the standing seam roof because it mimics more stylish traditional roofing styles. The metal roof may be installed over a framework of 2x2s, ensuring further durability, especially in extreme weather.

DIY Versus Hiring Contractors

Some homeowners choose the do-it-yourself route to reduce the cost of installing a metal roof. Companies can provide kits for installing steel roofs. These kits often do not have the same insulation and ventilation options as a professionally installed roof. Additionally, installing a roof does require a significant bit of handyman knowledge that might be difficult for the novice.

Be sure to contact a professional installation contractor to find out the pros and cons of DIY installation. Metal roofing will provide your home with a lifetime of security and insulation. Eco-friendly and durable, you will enjoy your metal roof for decades to come.

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Top 3 Metal Roofing Pros and Cons

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Are you considering metal roofing for your house or business? Is it time to repairan older roof or are you looking for new eco-friendly materials to save you money? Consider metal roofing pros and cons when searching for new roofing options. Metal roofing is becoming increasingly popular throughout the country, replacing more traditional options like asphalt shingles. Low maintenance, visually attractive, and very efficient, metal roofing is the perfect fit for you.

An Eco-Friendly Option

Environmentally friendly homeowners and business owners are finding that metal roofing options are a great low maintenance solution instead of petroleum-based products like asphalt shingles. Metal roofs are sustainable. In fact, when considering the metal roofing pros and cons, homeowners will be happy to find out that metal roofs are comprised of recyclable materials. Not only that, the metal can be recycled. Steel roofing, in particular, maintains his strength and durability after recycling. They are also energy efficient, saving significantly on heating and cooling costs.

Interested in solar panels? Metal roofs make solar panel installation easy. Additionally, homeowners that want to harvest rainwater find that the design of metal roof makes collecting water easy. The lightweight construction is ideal for the eco-conscious homeowner. In fact, metal roofing can be installed over shingles, saving the cost and waste of removing an old roof.

Cost

Metal roofing installation costs can be very high, especially when compared with traditional asphalt shingle roofing. Added insulation and specialty shingles to minimize noise indoors or dents due to extreme weather also adds to the cost. Consider the cost of replacing asphalt shingles several times over the course of the home’s lifetime versus the cost of a single metal roof for decades. Depending on your specific situation, the initial high cost may be worth it for a lifetime of secure low maintenance roofing.

A Durable Long-Term Investment

Unlike asphalt shingles that have a lifespan of ten to twenty years, a well-maintained metal roof can last decades, up to seventy years. Rust-proof coatings ensure that rust and corrosion do not affect the metal. Extreme weather like heavy snow and ice do not affect metal roofing, although denting can be a possibility.

A metal roof is a durable, stylish option that will withstand the elements over time, providing security for homeowners and business owners alike.

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4 Popular Types of Metal Roofing Residential Options

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.

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4 Tips When Calculating Metal Roofing Cost

Choosing the roof for your home includes calculating the metal roofing cost. Whether you choose steel, aluminum, copper, or other metal, there are distinct costs associated with each one. Read expert tips when counting up the financial costs of metal roofing for your residence or business.

Know the Costs of Different Types of Metal Roofing

The biggest initial factor in determining the cost of your metal roof, other than how large your building is, will be the type of metal that you choose. Of the main types – aluminum, steel, and copper – copper is the most expensive type of metal roofing. It is quite beautiful. More homeowners will opt to use it only for accents or special architectural elements. Aluminum is more expensive initially than galvanized steel or galvalume steel. The lightweight rust-free metal has a higher cost. But it is almost entirely comprised of recycled metal.

When choosing between galvalume steel and galvanized steel, the galvanized steel is lower in cost. Other metal types like titanium and rolled zinc will vary in price point. You will want to speak with your contractor directly if you want to use something other than the more popular aluminum or steel roofing options.

How much will you need?

This may seem obvious, but knowing the exact amount of roofing that you will need is imperative before calculating your metal roofing cost. Take the time to have an accurate measurement made. You also want to figure in any decisions like using a specific metal like copper for accents or using other types of roofing for the garage or portions of the roof. For customized architectural plans, speak with your architect, engineer, and contractor about what you want. Ask which metal is best for your building. You might find that depending on where you live or how close you are to the coast, that some options may be better than others.

Calculate Maintenance Costs

Maintaining your metal roof is a hidden cost that many individuals don’t take into account. Why? Well, they might see the initial price tag and want to opt for something that is more affordable at the outset. However, long-term wear and tear on the roof will affect your cost. For example, while galvanized steel may seem a much more economical option than aluminum, it also is more susceptible to rust.

If you are building right by the coast or water,  it is prone to inclement weather or salt spray. Rust may affect your roof sooner than you expected. Copper is very durable. Sometimes the high price tag puts it out of reach for most homeowners and many business owners. Speak with your contractor before making a final decision.

Choosing Shingles or Standing Seam?

Another major aspect of calculating the costs of your roof involves whether you are opting for shake, shingles, tile, slate, or standing seam. Options like shingles and tile will give your home a beautiful textured look that is more traditional.

Modern contemporary buildings may work best with a standing seam, which has a very distinct look. Metal slate, for example, is about half the price of real slate. Sheet roofing is more economical than standing seam. Residential homeowners who want to purchase standing seam roofing should speak with their contractor to determine end costs. Residential roofs often have more complex architecture than commercial buildings.

Work with your designer and contractor to determine which metal roofing option fits best in your budget and provides the most durability long-term.

The Science Behind Metal Roofing Keeping Homes Cooler in the Summer

Metal roofing in London The notion that a metal roof could keep your home cool in the summer seems to run contrary to reason. After all, metal absorbs heat so your attic, or any other rooms directly under the metal roof, should be as hot as an oven in the summer, right? Wrong, actually. While it may seem a bit odd it’s actually true that metal roofing on London homes can help reduce, not increase, the amount you spend on air conditioning during the summer months. In this article we’ll explain how they manage to do that.

Metal Roofing in London: The Cure for the Sweltering Home

When people think metal and sunlight they think “hot”. But metal roofing is engineered to run against the grain of logic and actually keep your home nice and cool while the sun is beating down. This is no empty sales pitch, it’s a quantifiable fact and here’s how it works:

  • Metal roofs don’t absorb heat – Because of its low thermal mass metal roofing doesn’t absorb heat like asphalt shingles or ceramic tiles. Instead it reflects it. This can be demonstrated by going up to the roof shortly after the sun goes down. If your roof were covered in asphalt shingles it would continue to radiate heat for a long time after the sun set. While a metal roof will cool off in a matter of minutes. This ability of metal to reflect heat means that there’s very little heat available to transfer into the house.
  • Metal roofs are effectively ventilated – The pros at London Eco-Metal understand the physics of metal roofing right down to the smallest details. They understand the importance of effective and efficient ventilation to remove any heat that does get through the outer shell. Ridge vents, soffits and other mechanisms are strategically installed throughout the roof to pull heat away and vent it to the atmosphere.
  • Metal roofs provide long term savings – With asphalt shingles you’ll need to replace them every 15 to 20 years. Not so with a metal roofing. Metal roofing can be expected to last upwards of 50 years without the need for any type of extraordinary maintenance. All that money you won’t be spending to replace your roof is money in your pocket. So not only will you enjoy direct savings on air conditioning, you’ll enjoy additional savings by not having to replace your roof every 15 years or so.

If you’ve ever been up on a roof covered with asphalt shingles you know just how sweltering it can be up there. And if you’ve ever spent time in the attic under a roof covered with asphalt shingles you know they transfer most of that heat into your home. But metal roofing is different. Metal roofing in London is the counter intuitive roofing solution that keeps the heat out. Your home will be cooler, you’ll spend less on air conditioning for many years to come and, let’s face it, your home will look better than it ever could with asphalt shingles.

Maintenance Checklist to Talk Through with Your Steel Roofing Contractors

Steel Roofing Contractors in LondonIn recent years steel roofing has finally begun to gain the recognition and praise it deserves. But, because asphalt shingles have enjoyed a virtual monopoly on residential roofing for decades and people tend to stick with what they know, steel roofing still represents unfamiliar technology. The fact is however that steel roofing will make your home more valuable, beautiful and energy efficient. So it’s in your best interest to investigate this state-of-the-art roofing option. Still, you may have questions regarding what type of maintenance a steel roof requires and so below we’ll go through the main points to cover with your steel roofing contractor.

Maintenance Questions to ask Steel Roofing Contractors in London

The best way to ensure your steel roof has a long, trouble free life is to have a pro perform an annual maintenance check. Chances are this check won’t turn up any problems but it’s a good idea just for your own piece of mind. Here are the things you’ll want steel roofing contractors in London to check on during a maintenance visit.

  • The state of the gutters – In order for your steel roof to do its job properly the gutters and downspouts have to be clear of dirt and debris. Overflowing can damage not only the roof but the exterior walls of your home as well.
  • The state of the flashings – Anything that penetrates the roof (like a skylight) needs flashing around its base to ensure water doesn’t penetrate into the house. You’ll want your steel roofing pro to check on the state of all the flashings on the roof, particularly if you’ve recently had work done to your chimney or had a vent installed.
  • Damage from falling branches – Steel roofs are tough but they’re not indestructible. During extreme weather events large branches can come crashing down and cause damage to the most robust roof. If you were not home at the time it occurred you may not even be aware any damage was done. It’s important to check for damage from falling or flying debris annually.
  • The paint job – One of the many great things about steel roofing is that it can be painted whatever colour or colours you wish. Again, however, during extreme weather events flying debris can scrape and scratch the paint on your steel roof. Your steel roofing pro can point out exactly where things need to be touched up.
  • The washers – The panels on a steel roof are often separated by neoprene washers. These can sometimes break down over the years due to exposure to weather or UV light from the sun. It’s a good idea to have the steel roofing pro check the washers annually and replace any that need replacing.

London Eco Metal was one of the first steel roofing contractors in London. Experience tells us that with just a little common sense maintenance your new steel roof will still be serving your home well a half century from now. Give us a ring to find out more.

Why You Shouldn’t Let the Initial Cost Put You Off Steel Roofs

steel roofs in London When it comes time to replace the roof more and more people are exploring the possibilities of steel roofing. When they’re first quoted a price however, some balk because steel roofing will typically cost a bit more than shingles to install. But with steel roofing there are a number of reasons to look beyond the initial sticker price and embrace this new technology anyway. And most of those reasons have to do with the fact that steel roofs in London will actually save you a significant amount of money in the long run.

The Many Economic Benefits of Steel Roofs in London

In some cases steel roofing will cost more upfront than some other options such as asphalt shingles. But initial out of pocket expenses only tell part of the story and don’t take into account the many long term economic benefits you’ll enjoy because of your new steel roof. Benefits such as:

  • Energy savings – Steel roofs are engineered to reflect heat during the summer months. This allows you to ratchet back the air conditioner and save money. But there’s another economic benefit to this as well: an HVAC system that doesn’t have to work as hard is one that will last far longer. So you’ll not only realise monthly savings on your energy bill, you won’t have to spend money maintaining or replacing an overworked HVAC system.
  • The true cost of asphalt vs steel – While it’s true that asphalt shingles often cost less to install what isn’t mentioned is that you may have to install 3 asphalt shingle roofs over the course of the expected lifetime of 1 steel roof. So the way to calculate the real price of asphalt shingles vs steel is to multiply the cost of a shingle roof by a factor of 3 and compare that to the cost of a single steel roof installation. You’ll then see how much steel will actually save you in the long run.
  • Durability – It’s one of the hallmarks of asphalt shingles that after an extreme weather event you’ll see big patches on the neighbour’s roofs where the shingles have been ripped away, exposing the interior of the house to the elements. This will not happen with a steel roof. Steel roofs form a unified front against the elements that makes them extremely tough, durable and long lasting. So you won’t have to pay to repair them after every heavy weather event.
  • Insurance savings – Because it’s more durable, because it’s safer than asphalt in a fire situation and because it won’t blow away when the wind picks up steel roofing will often result in a reduction in homeowner’s insurance premiums. And not just for one year. For every year you have the steel roof on your home. Just one more way steel roofs in London provide real, significant long term savings.

Steel roofing may cost a bit more up front but over the long run you’ll wind up saving boatloads of money compared to standard asphalt shingles. Contact London Eco Metal to find out more.

A Checklist to Find the Best Roofing Contractors in Mississauga

Roofing Contractors in MississaugaIf you have a mid-to-large sized home a new roof is likely to cost many thousands of dollars. As such you need to perform your due diligence before committing to a roofing contractor. Getting estimates is important, certainly, as is making sure you’re personally comfortable working with the roofers involved. But there’s more to finding the right contractor for this vital project than simply gathering estimates and warm fuzzy feelings. You’ll need to develop a checklist of important points that should be satisfied before you sign on the dotted line.

Vetting Roofing Contractors in Mississauga

In order to avoid a roofing disaster that could see you take an enormous financial hit and perhaps negatively impact the value of your home you’ll want to vet any prospective roofing contractors in Mississauga carefully. The following checklist will help you do that.

  • References – No references, no deal so this is first on the list. Before you discuss price or schedule make sure they’ll provide valid references and check them. If they can’t or won’t then move on to the next company.
  • Proof of insurance – Another non-negotiable item on your checklist. If they don’t have robust liability and personal injury insurance you’ll be liable for any injuries or damage they cause to your property or the property of your neighbours. No insurance. No deal.
  • A verifiable address – Some roofers have a snazzy truck to provide the reassuring visuals but little else. A verifiable business address goes a long way toward establishing that the contractor is in this for the long run and not just trying to make some beer money.
  • A written estimate – Any reputable contractor will be happy to provide a written estimate for the job. If the prospective contractor won’t they’re trying to leave the door open to piling all sorts of hidden charges onto the final bill.
  • Better Business Bureau profile – Check this on your own. You’ll be able to see if they have any outstanding lawsuits and read feedback from past customers. Remember, any company that has been around a while is bound to attract the odd lawsuit. It’s a pattern you’re looking for.
  • Who will do the work – Sometimes the person you talk to doesn’t even own a roofing company. They’re little more than a glorified salesman who secures the work then farms it out to subcontractors. Find out who’s doing the work.
  • Workmanship guarantee – Any reputable contractor should guarantee the quality of their own work. The length of these guarantees can vary, but if the company offers no such guarantee you should take a pass.
  • Industry affiliations – Membership in trade associations and the like is another sign that the contractor takes their business seriously. If they have no industry affiliations you’re perfectly justified in asking why.

Don’t just take someone’s word that they know what they’re doing and will stand behind their work. Make sure you carefully vet any prospective roofing contractors in Mississauga before selecting the one that’s right for you.

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