The appeal of metal roofing is more than just the whimsical sounds of rain on the rooftop or the farmhouse feel it can give to any property. In comparison to other materials such as shingles or tile, metal roofing can provide low maintenance upkeep.
Ranging in a broad variety of materials, metal roofing in Detroit Michigan has increased in popularity in recent years, with the rise of farmhouse and industrial design styles amongst commercial buildings. Some of the most popular type of metal roofing options are:
- Copper: Copper is a durable, long lasting roofing option that ages beautifully over time. With a soft, vintage look, this roofing option is sure to make a statement for your curb appeal.
- Aluminum: A long lasting, resilient roofing material, Aluminum can handle a variety of harsh weather conditions, such as salt water erosion.
- Zinc: Zinc is also extremely long-lasting and efficient to produce, due to having the lowest melting point of any kind of metal roofing material.
- Steel: Steel roofing comes in three different variations—galvanized, galvalume, and weathering steel (Corten).
- Tin: Some of the first roofing materials used before World War II, tin is no longer used as a roofing material in modern day construction.
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Metal Roofing Will Save You Money in the Long Run
After determining what kind of metal roofing material best suits your preference, the installation process can begin. While the initial costs of metal roofing might seem like a pricey investment up front, the upkeep is generally far less than other materials over time. Common shingles and tile often have issues with roof leaks, rot, and sun warping.
The benefit of metal roofing is its longevity against various kinds of inclement weather. Newly installed metal roofs, on average, can last up to 75 years. Many alternative roofing options need regular maintenance and typically need to be fully replaced every 20-25 years. While wooden or asphalt shingles might seem like the more economical decision initially, the repair costs and eventual replacement will add up far more over time.
Metal Roof Maintenance
Although metal roofing is reliable in terms of durability, even over years of wear and tear, having the knowledge of simple maintenance tasks can make all the difference in both your roof’s appearance and function. One thing to consider before selecting the metal roofing you are interested in is whether that specific material fares well in the region and climate where your home is located. For example, in the right climate, copper roofing can last upwards of 200 years. However, being one of the softest metal roofing materials, copper installed in a region where hail is a common occurrence can damage easily. First, assessing the selected roofing material’s durability and climate suitability is the first step in achieving a roof that will last through the decades.
Preparing Your Metal Roof For the Winter Season
Weather affects all building materials, but the roof of a house takes the brunt of it every season, and by a large margin. Harsh weather conditions can cause serious damage to a metal roof and home if you aren’t prepared accordingly.
With fall and the winter season approaching in Detroit, properly preparing your metal roof for oncoming weather is required. In some cases heavy snow and sleet can weigh down gutters, and cause them to be damaged or fall off the property. Built up snow can melt and result in leaks in your house if not addressed. Areas not exposed to sunlight can cause built up melted snow to refreeze, causing more damage to roof eaves and panels. With the right preparation, your metal roof will act as an insulator for heat in the cold winter months and keep your family safe and warm.
Prepare your gutters: The accumulation of debris can clog gutters anytime of the year. Nonetheless, during the winter months it is especially important to do a routine cleaning of them. The main function of your metal roof’s gutters in the thick of winter is to allow melted snow to runoff into the gutters and away from the home. If gutters are not cleaned out during the fall season, the chance of a gutter becoming clogged or damaged increases significantly. Damage to the wooden fascia boards your gutters are mounted to can also let moisture enter your home. Removing any twigs, leaves, and other debris can easily prevent the clogging of your gutters during the winter season. Allowing a professional to clean out your gutters at least twice a year will help with any potential issues that arise.
Install snow guards or stops: Many roofs will come with snow guards and stops, but in the case your roofing package did not receive these two essential pieces, purchasing them will make winter much easier for snow removal. When snow accumulates over a period of time and does not melt, it can get incredibly heavy. Roofs can collapse if they aren’t properly cleared of snow. Snow guards help prevent snow from accumulating on your roof and causing any permanent damage.
Check your roof’s insulation: Sometimes water damage can occur the previous winter season and is not necessarily visible in your Michigan home. Hiring an expert to inspect and check for any signs of mold or damage to the insulation under your roof can help prevent future leaks. The winter season can bring intense weather, like freezing temperatures, rain and sleet, strong winds, and many feet of snow. Ensuring that your metal roof is airtight, will prevent moisture from seeping through and freezing temperatures from affecting your home. In the event that there is damage found in the inspection, the inspector can patch any holes and reseal insulation for the winter ahead.
A metal roof is a hard working roof during the winter months. Depending on the climate you live in, maintaining your roof’s durability is just a part of routine house chores. Without proper care, a metal roof cannot prevent damage to your home. When metal roofs are properly taken care of, they can last upwards of a hundred years.