Toronto roofing contractors & metal roofing installations by London Eco Roof

How Are Metal Panels Eco Friendly?

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We make decisions every day that contribute to our overall carbon footprint. Reusable bags at the grocery store or declining a printed receipt are some small steps we can take. But as home or building owners, there are even bigger moves we can make that have a larger impact. One such decision is building with metal panels. Whether you plan to use these panels for side cladding or for a roof, the sustainability benefits are the same. So what is it about metal panels that make them so eco-friendly?

Recyclability

Metal panels contain a high percent of recycled materials – your wall cladding could have been a refrigerator or automobile in its past life. And when the lifecycle of your panels eventually come to an end, the material can be recycled yet again! When the service life of a metal roof ends (decades after installation), the material can be recycled yet again.

Energy Efficiency

According to data from ENERGY STAR, heating and cooling can account for up to 50% or more of a home’s total utility consumption. The use of metal roofing can help with energy efficiency through solar radiation reflection if you use unpainted metal, or by increased re-emittance of solar radiation with pre-painted or granular coating metal roofing systems.

Long Shelf Life

While recyclability and energy efficiency are great reasons to choose metal, the biggest reason people use this material is it’s long shelf life. Roof shingles have a life expectancy of 20 years; compare that to a metal roofs expectancy of anywhere from 40 to 70 years. Not only does this save you money in the long run, but avoids asphalt shingles finding their way into landfills every 20 years.

Other Reasons

There are plenty of other factors that make metal panels eco-friendly. They are the perfect material for collecting rain water thanks to their anti-microbial paint systems. They’re also able to shed large materials easily without the range of crevices and cracks for those materials to adhere to. Metal panels also have the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any regularly used building material, so they’re ideal for solar panel installation.

For these reasons and more, metal panels lend themselves to the best that sustainable building has to offer, protecting the earth and your bottom line. Contact our team today to learn more. We will be happy to answer any of your questions at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!

How to Decide if Metal Roofing is Right for You

Are you considering a metal roof for your residential, commercial, or industrial project? While shingle roofs have long been the top choice for sloped roofs, we have seen a huge increase in contractors choosing metal. Its growth in popularity is a testament to its excellence for whatever your project may be. You may be wondering if metal is right for you. Consider these things when deciding:

Cost

The cost of metal roofing may make some people shy away. Compared to asphalt, metal is a tad more expensive. However, contractors and building owners must also consider that metal will last longer, require less maintenance, as well as improve the energy efficiency of a building. All these factors contribute to a value that shingles simply don’t possess.

Weather

Both reliable and strong, metal roofs give your home the best protection against extreme weather conditions. Including hurricane-force winds, hail storms, heavy rain, and wildfires. Does your area experience heavy rainfall or downpours? Metal roofs are nearly impenetrable to moisture. Live near the sea? Metal panels, especially copper, can withstand the salt spray. Metal roofs are far more durable than shingles, with little risk of blowing away during a storm or losing its strength over the years.

Energy

Is your home exposed to a lot of sunlight? Metal roofs are able to reflect the sun, meaning less heat absorbing into your living space. In turn, this leads to needing less energy to cool the home. Besides saving money on utility bills, metal roofs are also great for the environment! Choosing metal panels reduces the amount of asphalt that needs to be disposed of or recycled each year, and the panels themselves are 100% recyclable!

Age of Home

Renovating? If you live in an older home, that might be another reason to consider metal. Metal is significantly lighter than other roofing options that can cause stress to the structure of an older home.

Whether you’re renovating or starting from scratch, a metal roof is a long lasting investment in your facility that is well worth it! Wondering if metal panels are right for your facility? Contact our team today to learn more. We will be happy to answer any of your questions at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!

Can I Install a Metal Roof During the Winter?

If you take the time to call around to roofing professionals throughout your area, and ask them if they can install a roof in the winter, most of them will probably say no. When it comes to materials such as asphalt, they rely on the pressure and heat of the season to activate the sealant strips in their shingles to create the necessary seal that keeps moisture and the elements out. This causes them to have a limited season for proper installation. However, with a metal roof, no such environmental factor is required.

Not only is a winter installation possible for a metal roof, it actually has its benefits over a summer installation.

MATERIALS

Unlike an asphalt roof, metal roofs are not dependent on a temperature sensitive sealant to keep moisture out. A metal roof uses screws and flashing to keep the panels secure, and their edges water resistant. An asphalt shingle will have to wait until the summer to get the glue it uses to actually activate, and during that time, dust and debris will get pushed up under the shingles causing the glue to be less effective when the time comes to adhere.

PROFESSIONAL INSTALLATION

It’s always important to make sure that you are working with a company that hires and trains professionals, and insures them. A knowledgeable crew knows the limits of the materials that they are working with and also knows how to install safely during the winter months. Homeowners may find that some roofing companies charge less in the winter months because they experience a slump in business when the weather is cold.

When you work with an experienced contractor, however, you can expect them to be busy year-round. While you might be tempted to take advantage of a lower price, remember that reputable roofing companies stay busy for a reason — they deliver a high-quality job that will last for decades. If your roof needs replacing now, and it can’t wait until summer, make sure you work with a company that will take the time to do the job properly. And if you’re concerned about how long your roof will last, you should only work with a highly experienced roofing company that stands behind its work with a quality warranty.

Why Choose Metal Panels For Self Storage Buildings

The rumors are true! Metal panels are the preferred choice for self storage buildings. As a business whose heart is the facility itself, creating a reliable self storage business is entirely dependent on the materials you choose to construct the building with. our facility must be appealing to customers while maintaining a functional, low-maintenance design. For most self-storage facility owners, metal is the go to building material. Read on to find out why!

Quick to Build, Easy to Maintain

The prefabricated design of metal buildings means that the components arrive pre-cut and ready to go. This saves time and money during the construction process. Metal buildings also save money on annual maintenance costs. Many metal panels feature protective coatings which prevent damage, preserving the longevity of a facility.

Durable

When built with metal, storage buildings can withstand high winds, heavy snow and hail. This will provide tenants with peace of mind that their property will always be protected. Metal buildings are also resistant to damage from fire and seismic activity!

Flexible Design

Metal panels can come in any shape, size, or style you need. Roll up doors? There’s a metal panel for that! Steel roll up doors offer long-term value, low maintenance design and space savings, making them an ideal choice for your self-storage facility. Roof? We’ve got the perfect metal panels for that (and they’ll last you a lifetime!). To create an energy efficient facility, consider choosing cool metal roofing colors. Metal panels and trim are also available in several attachment styles, profiles, colors and finishes to suit your needs. As your business grows, your metal building can be expanded to accommodate additional units.

IMPs offer an all-in-one solution for your storage facility. They play a large role in improving the weathertightness of your facility, as well as providing a consistent outer and inner barrier. IMPs also require less effort and material to construct, adding more interior space to your storage units! Wondering if metal panels are right for your facility? Contact our team today to learn more. We will be happy to answer any of your questions at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!

Are Insulated Panels Good For Retrofits?

Retrofitting an existing building can breathe new life into an aging structure. Not only that, but retrofitting is an important strategy for decarbonizing the built environment and increasing a building’s energy efficiency. In fact, it is estimated that ⅔ of existing buildings today need to be retrofitted before 2025 to outpace carbon emissions. So why IMPs? The significant benefits of retrofitting with insulated metal panels extend far beyond energy savings. Insulated metal panels (IMPs) are an excellent option for exterior retrofit projects thanks to their versatility, performance, and easy installation.

Endless Aesthetics

Installing IMPs on the exterior of a building provides a fresh, updated look that can dramatically transform its appearance. Designers can choose from a vast variety of colors, textures, and finishes. All in an array of panel sizes, both large and small. The sheer variety of IMPs offer unlimited aesthetic options that compliment every type of surrounding, from urban and industrial to residential areas and neighborhoods.

Good For The Environment

The most compelling case for retrofitting with IMPs lies in the large number of buildings in need of updating and repair. If many of these buildings were retrofitted with IMPs, a significant amount of carbon emissions would be reduced. That alone makes IMPs a better choice for creating a more sustainable built environment. Once installed, the interlocking metal panels provide an uninterrupted barrier against the elements, reducing thermal bridging, preventing moisture damage, and effectively insulating the building with little cooling/heating loss..

Easy Installation, Easy Maintenance

IMPs are a single-component product, making them simple to install. Minimizing installation costs and potential errors; reducing overall budget and decreasing the amount of time to complete the retrofit project. Additionally, their metal exterior surfaces make IMPs low maintenance and easy to clean. It’s a win-win!

If you’re planning a retrofit of an existing building, consider the many benefits of installing a new exterior façade of insulated metal panels. Combining a myriad of finishes with efficient performance, IMPs are the perfect fit for your retrofit project! Contact our team today to learn more. We will be happy to answer any of your questions at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!

Lifespan of a Metal Roof

Nothing lasts forever, but the right choice of metal roofing can endure for many lifetimes. Just take a look at some of the roofs atop cathedrals and castles in Europe! If priorities for your roof include low maintenance and longevity, metal should be one of your first choices. So, just how long will your metal roof last? Let’s take a look!

Metal Material

Overall, the longevity of your metal roof will depend on which metal you decide to go with. Galvanized metal, for example, can last at least 50 years. Perhaps even more, as the practice of galvanizing is only 60 years old! Copper roofs are considered to be the best roofing material in the industry due to their longevity and durability. These roofing systems can last 100 – even 200 – years, easily withstanding wind, saltwater, and more. Steel roofs, on the other hand, can last up to 75 years, while zinc roofs can last longer than 100! Aluminum roofs last the least amount of time compared to other metals, often lasting up to 50 years.

Lifespan Factors

Other factors affecting your metal roof’s lifespan can include:

Roof Color: A darker roof tends to absorb more heat, while a lighter colored roof reflects heat. The heat absorption and UV exposure will eventually take a toll on your metal panels, degrading the material over time.
Roof Pitch: Pitch refers to the steepness of a roofing system. A low sloping roof speeds up wear and tear because it soaks up and weakens the roof material.
Installation: No matter how durable your metal roof is, it won’t last if it was poorly installed. Your roofing contractor must install the roof according to the manufacturer’s specifications. They should be a certified installer. Also, make sure that your contractor is licensed and provides labor and material warranties.
Maintenance: All roofing systems need care. Metal roofs put busy homeowners at an advantage because they’re low maintenance. But just because they’re low maintenance, doesn’t mean you don’t have to inspect it. Regular inspections by a licensed roofer ensure that it receives early repairs before problems get bigger.

Wondering if metal panels are right for your roof? Contact our team today to learn more. We will be happy to answer any of your questions at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!

Metal Panels Vs. Traditional Building Materials

Oftentimes when making a purchase, we must ask what makes one product superior to another. This goes for our groceries, appliances, and the same should go towards building materials. What would make you choose one over the other? The answer is simple! The superior product is the one that saves you money and time. So let’s take a look at how insulated metal panels compare to other traditional building materials in cost and lifespan.

Traditional Materials

Framing, insulating, and siding all take time to install. Not to mention it can mean hiring additional trades to come in and complete one of the jobs. Not only does this lengthen the cost of your build, but increases the price as well.

As far as materials go, generally speaking reinforced concrete can last anywhere from 30 to 60 years. While masonry or timber can last up to 100! Masonry and timber absolutely compete with metal panels in terms of lifespan. However, many building owners fail to consider the cost of maintaining and operating the structure.

Overall, these structures require far more upkeep and maintenance than metal panels. Think termite prevention, tuckpointing, repairs, repainting, water sealing, and more.

Metal Panels

Using insulated metal panels as your building material can cut down building time as well as labor costs. These panels take care of the frame, insulation, wrap, vapour barrier, sheathing, siding, and interior finish all in one easy step. The type of metal you choose to go with will determine the lifespan of your panel. For instance, copper panels can last well over 200 years, while steel lasts around 80.

Environmental factors should also be taken into consideration. Durable metal panels can resist hurricane force winds, easily outperforming other materials in wind events. Choosing to use metal panels opposed to traditional materials can also help protect your business from fire thanks to their flame resistant foam core.

Finally, consider the environmental impact of your building material. Recycling concrete is NOT economical, and at the end of the building’s lifespan this material often ends up in our already overflowing landfills. On the other hand, metal panels, which are already made from recycled material, are also 100% recyclable at the end of their use! Extending their lifespan again and again.

Ultimately, the choice between using a metal panel versus traditional materials comes down to your timeline, budget, envisioned design, and environmental factors. Wondering if metal panels are right for your project? Contact our team today to learn more. We will be happy to answer any of your questions at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!

What are the Benefits of Designing with Metal Panels?

metal-roof-manufacturers Architectural metal panels are being used in some of today’s most innovative building designs. In part for their durability and strength, but also for their undeniable unique looks, quick installation, and versatility. Metal panels possess hundreds of possible shapes, sizes, textures, colors, and finishes. Whether you want to add exciting accents, focal points, or upgrade to a cleaner appearance. Here are just a few of the benefits that architectural metal panels can offer on your next project:

Versatility, Styles, and Finishes

Metal panels are extremely versatile, able to be used anywhere in a building project. They can be used on exteriors to cover unsightly cladding, or used in specific areas to create contrast with the surrounding materials. On the interior, metal panels can be used to create unique surfaces. Either textured or as a mimic of other materials with the benefits of being far more lasting and easier to maintain.

Malleability

Unlike concrete, brick, drywall, or even wood, architectural metal panels can easily be used to create complex shapes, such as curves or three-dimensional objects. Because metals are malleable and flexible, they offer many more design possibilities than competing materials.

Sustainability

All metal panels are 100% recyclable, and most of them already contain some recycled content. These panels require less energy required to extract new materials, reducing the overall carbon footprint associated with mining.

Lightweight

Metal panels are extremely light compared to other wall cladding materials. Reducing the load requirements for the structural components supporting the wall cladding, which can lead to lower construction costs and less complex installation requirements. On the interior, architectural wall panels can be much lighter than drywall or other materials, while offering greater rigidity.

As you can see , designing with metal panels is a great choice for any building due to their durability, versatility and relatively easy installation requirements. They can be the perfect way to create a modern look for your building or to create design features that draw attention to the structure, and the cost savings over other materials can be quite attractive.

Are you interested in enhancing your building design with metal panels? Should you have any questions or concerns, contact our qualified team of professionals at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com.

Alternative Uses For Metal Panels

Durable, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing. Have you ever wondered what other ways metal wall panels can be applied in your commercial or residential space? These panels can be used for so many unique things besides providing a long lasting roof structure. In this article, we’ll dive into some creative, alternative uses for metal wall panels.

Metal Accent Wall

A metal wall is a perfect way to create contrast, texture, and a unique focal point within or outside of the home. Outer panels can create a beautiful backdrop in a garden, or can be used to cover unattractive concrete walls. Interior panels can add pops of color and texture to break up a space. These panels can even mimic other materials, such as wood, allowing for an endless array of design options.

Metal Ceiling or Molding

Ceilings are the often overlooked fifth wall of an interior space. Metal wall panels can be used to provide an industrial look or to create a unique focal point on areas such as the porch. A metal panel can also fare well in the garage, often brightening up the space. In modern or industrial interiors, a metal strip sometimes accented with LED lighting can be applied to the crown or base molding of a room.

Metal Wainscoting

Metal Wainscoting has become increasingly popular in commercial and restaurant spaces for a while now. When used in small spaces, metal wainscoting can even make the room appear larger than it is.

Kitchen Island

Looking for the right rustic steel accent in your interior? Try corrugated metal panels along your kitchen island! When paired with wood, this can also create a chic beachy aesthetic. Other kitchen ideas include a metal backsplash or metal cabinets.

Metal Bar

Take your entertaining style to the next level with a corrugated metal bar. Since metal panels are rust resistant, corrugated bars are perfect for use indoors or outdoors. In this type of application, metal is usually used for the sides, backsplash and roof while wood is used for the bar top surface.

Are you ready to utilize metal panels in unique and exciting ways within your building? Contact our team today to learn more. We will be happy to answer any of your questions at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!

How To Prepare For Metal Roof Installation

You must be as excited as we are about your upcoming metal roof installation. After all, you’re about to be the owner of an incredibly durable, attractive metal roof that will protect your home for decades! But no big project comes without the necessary forethought and preparation. To help you get ready for your metal roof installation, we’ve compiled the following checklist for you to follow.

Prior To Installation

Before workers arrive, be sure to complete the following:

Clear walkways and other areas of the job site for easy maneuvering.
Work trucks can be large and carry heavy loads! Make sure any personal vehicles, bikes, and toys are moved to accommodate them.
No crew member comes without tools and equipment! Predetermine an area where the crew can leave their tools as well as personal belongings.
If you have shrubbery or other plants surrounding your home, cover these with a tarp to prevent unwanted metal scraps from falling into them.
Good manners are important! Make sure your neighbors are aware of the upcoming, somewhat noisy, roof installation.

During Installation

While the crew is busy installing your gorgeous, long lasting metal roof, make sure:

Any pets have been tied or brought inside.
Children are in a secure area away from the job site.
Any loose items are secured in case the house shakes.
Dumpsters (your contractor should arrange this) and trash bags are available for scraps and other waste.
There may be an increase in dirt flying around; keep doors and windows shut to avoid any dust entering your home.

At the end of the day, a successful and easy roof installation boils down to good communication. Knowing expected work periods, no-go areas of your property, which doors/gates should remain shut, and other tiny details will all contribute to a smooth installation.

We hope you enjoy your sparkling new metal roof for many years to come. Should you have any questions or concerns, contact our qualified team of professionals at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com.

Metal Roofing Blog