With a market size of $5.3 billion and a growth rate of 0.6% annually, more American homeowners are opting for metal roofing (Freedonia). Though metal roofing is more expensive per square foot than other popular alternatives, such as asphalt shingles, its many advantages make it desirable (The Spruce). The primary benefit is that metal roofs last much longer- about 50 to 75 years, compared to 15 to 25 years for an asphalt shingle roof. This guide will help homeowners considering metal roofing make an informed decision about this popular material:
Why Choose Metal Roofing in Southern California?
Energy Efficient: The surface of metal roofs reflects heat, which results in lower cooling costs for places such as Orange County, California. The corresponding energy savings can reach 40% for well-insulated homes with metal roofing (State Farm).
Durability: When installed correctly, metal roofs can resist wind damage better than other popular roofing alternatives, such as asphalt and wood shingles. Moreover, metal roofs are fireproof, adding a layer of protection against the threat of wildfires (State Farm).
Sustainability: Metal Roofs are environmentally friendly. They are recyclable. At least 25% of metal roof material is recycled, such as smelted scrap steel, copper, zinc, galvalume, and aluminum (Absolute Steel).
Metal Roofs are Safe: Metal roofs are less susceptible to hail damage, especially for thicker and well-designed roof and siding panels (Western States Metal Roofing). Moreover, contrary to popular belief, metal roofs do not attract lightning and do rot require grounding.
Metal Roofs are Versatile: Metal roof manufacturers use steel's flexibility to craft metal roofs that can fit the aesthetic requirements of most homes. Metal roof panels of various designs and colors resembling ceramic tiles, shingles, or even shakes are available (McElroy Metal).
What Are Common Issues and Solutions for Metal Roofs?
Though metal roofs offer excellent value for homeowners, no product can be 100% perfect. Even the best-installed metal roofs may encounter various issues during their lifespan. Here are several notable problems Southern California homeowners encounter with their metal roofs:
Leaks
Though metal roofs are the least susceptible to leaks among many alternatives, leaks are always a possibility, and most are caused by human error (Sheffield Metals). Aside from improper installation, the leading causes of leaking metal roofs are driving rain, ice damming, structural damage, heavy or melting snow, and corrosion.
Solutions:
Choose a reputed contractor for roof installation to ensure that each element of your roof is appropriate and properly installed.
Ensure that fasteners are not too tight, off-centered, or loose enough to allow water to enter.
Check your roof flashing and ensure precise installation with appropriate sealants in place.
Check your sealant's integrity to ensure it is preventing water, debris, or dirt from compromising your roof. Repair your sealant or butyl tape if it is incorrectly applied, damaged, missing, or you suspect it is leaking.
Regular roofing inspections from a reputable roofer will ensure that each element of your metal roof is covered. Moreover, they can provide appropriate recommendations if leak sources are detected.
2. Corrosion
Though metal roofs have anti-corrosion coating, it is still vital to note the factors that cause corrosion and solutions to address them:
Underside corrosion may occur because of inadequate coating on the underside of the panel caused by trapped moisture between the metal roof panel and the underlayment or insulation. A granulated underlayment may scratch the coating on the roof's backside.
Ensuring proper insulation and choosing quality underlayment can prevent scratches on the protective coating on the roof's underside. Regular inspections, especially in these hidden areas, can catch early signs of corrosion.
Saltwater corrosion may occur in homes near the coast, such as those in Irvine, Laguna Beach, or San Juan Capistrano.
Choosing roofing metals, like zinc or aluminum for homes in these areas can better address corrosion than steel roofing.
Different metals touching each other can cause galvanic corrosion. Proper isolation techniques can address direct contact between metals and prevent corrosion in these vulnerable areas.
Corrosion may also grow out from cut edges. Proper sealing, hemming, and folding of the metal edges can minimize the exposure of vulnerable areas to corrosion.
3. Chalking and Fading
Chalking and fading are common issues metal roof owners encounter in areas that receive harsh sunlight, such as Southern California. This problem is manifested by whitish residue visible on painted or coated metal panels. These residues result from paint resin breaking down because of excessive UV exposure.
Solutions:
Options for high-quality coatings, such as Kynar 500® or Hylar 500® (Best Buy Metals), will provide adequate UV protection while offering excellent color retention and durability.
Regular cleaning to remove debris, pollutants, and dirt can help prevent fading. Use a soft brush or pressure water at low settings to avoid damaging the coating.
For the most severe cases of chalking and fading, repainting the metal roof may be necessary. In the worst cases, roof replacement may be required.
4. Scratches and Scruffs
At some point in its lifetime, accessing the roof and walking on it will be inevitable. Whether installing solar panels, a satellite dish, or even conducting regular roof inspections, people will need to step on your roof. Moreover, tools or other items may be dropped on a panel, which create scratches and scuffs, especially at ladder entries or flashing points.
Solutions:
Prevention is key: careful handling and proper tools are required to avoid accidental scratches. Hiring experienced and qualified installers and roofers who understand the importance of careful handling is necessary.
Repairing minor scratches and scruffs and applying touch-up paint can prevent corrosion in these areas.
Inspect new panels during installation. If you detect scruffs or scratches, make sure to let your contractor know so they can fix affected areas with a touch-up pen or paint that matches the roof color.
5. Oil Canning
Oil canning is a visual phenomenon in which flat metal surfaces, such as metal roofs, look wavy or corrugated, resembling ripples seen on the surface of oil cans. Your home's aesthetic appeal may be compromised when this happens because these ripples may give the impression that you opted for thin and cheap metal roofs (Acladding.com).
Solutions:
Opt for thicker metal panels because these are generally less prone to oil canning.
Choose panels with specific designs and profiles that minimize the appearance of oil canning.
Proper installation, such as providing appropriate support and fastening, can reduce the likelihood of oil canning.
Matte and textured finishes can also help reduce the roof's reflectivity and minimize the appearance of waves.
Takeaways: Maximizing the Benefits of Your Metal Roof
Metal roofs are an excellent roof choice that offers premium value compared to other roofing options, such as asphalt and wood shingles and shakes. Though metal roofs offer many advantages, they are still vulnerable to many factors. However, there are solutions to address each of these to ensure you can enjoy the benefits of metal roofing for decades.
Contact Rescue Roofer for regular roofing inspection, roof replacement, roofing repair, or even emergency repairs for metal roofs. Rescue Roofer has established a solid reputation for quality and professionalism in Mission Viejo, CA, and surrounding cities and towns.