Standing Seam Metal Roof. Advantages & Disadvantages.

Of all the different roof types on the market today, the standing seam metal roof is the one gaining fastest in popularity. Whether it’s the looks or the fact that it’s known as a “cool” roof that can help keep your solar temperatures down, standing seam metal roofs are definitely attracting a lot of attention.

Standing Seam Metal Roofs

Metal roofing is not new, and neither is the standing seam metal roof. What is new is its popularity amongst homeowners. Originally, standing seam metal roofs were usually reserved for businesses and commercial buildings. That has changed, however, as more people are beginning to notice the contemporary appeal and durability of a metal roofing system.

Standing seam metal roofs get their name from the way that they are built. They are constructed of metal panels that run from your ridge down to the edge of the roof. At the edge of each panel is a tall seam that connects to the next panel anywhere from ½-inch to 1-1/2-inches above the roof so it appears the seam is “standing”. They can be made of steel or aluminum, with aluminum being the preferred material because it will not rust.

Standing seam metal roofs can come in a wide variety of different colors, which can complement contemporary to rustic style homes. The benefit of this is that light colors can be used on the roof that can reflect some of the light from the sun, and prevent superheating of the attic.

Advantages of Standing Seam Metal Roofs

In addition to their looks and the fact that they may help keep your home cooler, the biggest advantage to using this style of roof is its durability. These roofs are built to last, so they don’t rust and most don’t fade in the sun, either. The fact that the seams of the roof only run vertically, not horizontally, and the fact that the seams are raised above the roof itself means that a roof’s traditionally weakest point is reinforced on these roofs. So while they can be dented by hail or pierced by a very heavy tree limb, they tend to last much longer than a standard asphalt roof – up to 50 years in comparison to the 17 to 20 of an asphalt roof.

Disadvantages of Standing Seam Metal Roofs

The biggest downside to this style of roof is the installation. While most roofers work with asphalt roofs, there are fewer who understand metal roof installation and metal roof materials. This means that it can be harder to find someone that is knowledgeable about the roof type.

This style of metal roofing cannot be installed on flatter roofs, as well. This means that if your roof has a rise of less than 2 feet per 12 inches, you will need to choose a different roofing material.

These types of metal roofs cost more than traditional asphalt roofs as well, which can be a drawback until you consider that they tend to last longer. The average cost for these types of roofs runs between $8 and $11 a square foot installed.

Metal Roof Installation

During the installation of the metal roofing, all previous roofing materials must be removed. So while you can layer asphalt shingles on top of one another, this is not possible with this type of roof.

The eaves are trimmed next and flashing is applied to penetrations in the roof as well as along the edges. Once the eaves are trimmed, the underlayment is applied to the entire roof. The panels then start at the edge of the roof and work from one side to the next. Each panel is made to either lock into the next one, or fasteners are used to attach the panels together at their seams. In any case, the seams are made to overlap one another to help keep out the elements. Ridge caps and valley flashing are applied last to finish the roof.

Metal Roof Repair and Maintenance

Standing seam metal roofs are extremely low maintenance, with some brands claiming to be virtually maintenance free. Generally the only maintenance required is the occasional cleaning of the roof to remove dirt or debris.

If repairs need to be made, they can generally be done by replacing the damaged panel or panels without disturbing the rest of the roof. Each roof is different, however; speak to your installer to get a better idea of what can be done for your roof.

Consider a Standing Seam Metal Roof

Standing seam roofs are gaining quickly in popularity when homeowners consider their low maintenance, durability, good looks, longevity, and solar heating protection. To find out more or to get a quote on metal roofing near you, call for a free estimate.