Roofs Built For Hurricane Force Winds
Hurricane Harvey, Irma and Dorian are only three of the recent storms our nation saw devastate families in coastal regions. Tons and tons of buildings were completely destroyed by water damage. Just as many, if not more, were destroyed after their roofs failed to hold against the wind.
Powerful winds can wreak all kinds of havoc on your poor rooftop. Any kind of overhangs attached to the structure can catch strong gusts, resulting in the roof being blown off the top of the building much more easily. On the flip side, a roof with a steep, narrow pitch can catch the wind kind of like a sail and put strain on the entire building. Plus, a roof without sufficient hurricane protection installed, of course, may also more easily detach from the rest of the structure.
All of that said, Florida is a beautiful state featuring gorgeous architecture. St. Augustine, especially, boasts some of the most stylish homes youll see anywhere around the United States. So what is a Florida homeowner to do when it comes time to put a roof over their head?
When you call your friendly neighborhood Florida roofing contractor like your friends at Elite Remodeling Services youll want to consider the practicality and safety of the roof types that they offer, and the style of home you want to build.
Hurricane Mitigation Adequate Roof Protection Is A Must For Coastal Living
Seaside property, aka coastal living, has long been coveted for its fantastic views and access to beaches. Yet, the glaring disadvantage comes from hurricanes or tropical storms that make landfall.
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Did you know? Whether in Florida, Louisiana, Oklahoma, or Texas, its not uncommon to see many wind-damaged roofs from which some shingles have been blown off after a major storm or hurricane ripped through the area.
In the continental U.S., Florida tops the list of states with its 1350 miles of ocean-side coastlines. East, West, and Southern borders are all exposed to the Atlantic sea. A great treasure when the sea is relatively calm. While sticking out like a sore thumb during hurricane season.
Hurricane Andrew, in 1992, was a historical storm that had an impact on Florida which is still playing out today. Wind speeds topped 165 mph and left $25 billion in damages to the state. Around 125,000 homes in Miami-Dade County alone, were severely devastated or completely destroyed.
It may be impossible to overcome the ferocity of a natural occurrence that packs that degree of a punch. Since Andrew, Florida has sought to lessen the chances of that much damage occurring at once.
Did you know? Building codes throughout Florida have undergone significant changes, particularly to High Velocity Hurricane Zones , namely Miami-Dade and Broward Counties.
Metal Roofs Are Becoming
Metal roofs are becoming more and more popular in Florida, and this is a good thing. Theyre durable, highly resistant to leaks and pests, energy-efficient, and can withstand wind and projectiles without being compromised.
Glen Leach
As with anything that becomes popular, metal roofs are now much more numerous than the experts who know how they work, and theres always a temptation for do-it-yourself-ers to grab the materials from the hardware store, hop up on a ladder and try to accomplish the task on their own.
Metal roofs tend to be more expensive, so people want to cut corners. But an improperly installed metal roof can cost exponentially more in the long run. You lose all the value when theres shoddy craftsmanship.
One thing that Im looking for when I inspect a metal roof is the screws used to fasten roofing. First of all, they should be gasketedthough most novice installers will understand this, because the gaskets are vital for water-proofing.
However the location of the screws is also a major factor in the roofs durability. Metal roofing has a varying profile to help water flow, but that profile is also important for aerodynamicshow the wind flows over the building.
Typically, novice self-installers will try to fasten the roofing at the highest point of its profile. They may mistakenly believe that the alignment of the taller peaks in the profile are the most secure locations.
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Metal Roofs Are Energy Efficient
Along with all that sunshine comes the cost of cooling. Metal roofing offers homeowners a considerable advantage in terms of energy consumption. Cool roof pigments applied to metal roofing are highly reflective and reduce the absorption of heat compared to shingles. Above sheathing ventilation adds ventilated airspace to metal roofs that allows heat energy to escape into the atmosphere.
Homeowners in FL with highly reflective metal roofs will save on their electricity bills.
Reasons Metal Roofs Have An Advantage In Florida
Design trends come and go, but metal roofs have stood the test of time in Florida. In fact, metal roofs have been protecting homes in the Sunshine State since the late 1800s. Early settlers recognized that metal panels were relatively inexpensive to ship and simple to install.
Today, metal remains a popular roofing choice. Youll see it atop apartment buildings, condominiums, shopping plazas, churches, schools and government facilities, as well as single-family homes.
Below are four reasons why property owners and property managers are choosing metal roofs to protect their investments:
Durability: Properly installed metal roofs can have a wind resistance up to 140 mph or more. That allows them to withstand even the most powerful hurricanes and tropical storms. Falling branches and flying debris might ding a metal roof, but metal panels offer an added layer of protection, similar to a helmet that protects an athlete. Metal panels are also non-porous, essentially locking out moisture with a watertight seal.
Environmentally friendly: Metal panels reflect light and emit heat. That physical property keeps attics and ceiling spaces cooler, which in turn keeps interior spaces cooler. As a result, A/C systems dont have to work as hard during the hot summer. Metal panels often consist of recycled materials, and when replaced, the entire roof can be recycled to reduce waste in landfills.
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Metal Roofing Cost Compared To Other Types Of Roofs
Even though metal roofs cost more than other types, over time they save money through insulation, protection from storms, and durability.
In Florida, the cost of metal roofing is comparable to tile roofs.
The metal roofing cost in Florida is cheaper than slate and clay tile roofs.
Metal Roofs can last up to 70 years or more depending on the type of material used. So, if you ever decide to sell your home or structure, its value will be greater because of the metal roof.
You save money when it comes to installation as metal roofs have a faster installation period compared to other types of roofs.
Installing metal roofs takes only a few days whereas the installation time for asphalt takes more time, depending on roof size.
The cost of maintenance is lower as compared to slate and clay tile roofs because scrapes, dents, and damages can be easily fixed by applying fresh paint.
The cost of roofing repairs is lower as compared to other types such as asphalt, wood shakes, and slate. This makes your metal roof even more economical.
When You Should Choose The Thicker Panel
Although thicker panels are stronger, the importance of this extra strength is not always necessary. It depends on the type of building construction, the location of the building, and the customers priorities.
You should choose thicker panels if you have a post-frame building or a pole barn, which is an open-framed structure thats used for barns, warehouses, and garages. In many cases, post frames lack structural sheathing, so the roof panels will need to span between the supporting purlins or trusses. Lighter-gauge panels, like 22-, 24-, and 26-gauge sheeting, will remain more structurally sound for years to come.
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How To Pick The Right Metal Roof Color: Consumer Guide For 2021
Choosing a color for your new metal roof is an exciting process, especially today, when you have more options available to you than ever before.
However, its important to not get lost in the abundance of available color choices! keep in mind that the color you choose will greatly affect the overall look and feel of your home.
This guide will help you visualize and compare the most common color schemes and options available to you, the homeowner. Well also consider a number of practical and aesthetic factors associated with various colors.
Sample Chart of Kynar 500 Metal Roof Colors
Here are a few considerations to keep in mind to help you successfully navigate all your metal roof color options, and pick the one that will be the best fit for your home:
What To Learn More
Learn more about metal roofing for your home by visiting our Residential Metal Roofing overview. You may also be interested in downloading our Residential Metal Roofing Guide. If you have any questions, please contact us or locate a distributor or contractor in your area.
Learn everything you need to know about Residential Metal Roofing. Check out our metal roofing resources for inspiration and answers to your questions.
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Contact Paul Bange Roofing Today
If youre attracted to the practical benefits of metal roofs but are put off by their metallic appearance, theres good news. Paul Bange Roofing offers a broad spectrum of metal roofing materials, many of which closely mimic the colors and shapes of other roofing materials like shingles and tiles.
While your image of a metal roof might be generic and unpleasant to look at, this couldnt be further from the truth. Part of the appeal of Paul Bange Roofing lies in our commitment to superior customer service. So if you know you need a new roof, but are uncertain about your options, visit us.
You can view samples of metal roofing materials that will give you a better idea of what to expect. We pride ourselves on delivering service based on honesty, integrity, and superior workmanship. We look forward to speaking with you and completing your next roofing installation.
Energy Efficiency What Is A Cool Roof
In this publication, we are concentrating on roofs with energy efficiency in mind. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that Americans spend about $40 billion each year to air condition buildingsone-sixth of all electricity generated in this country.
The most important characteristic of a cool roof is high solar reflectance, because it helps to reflect sunlight and heat away from a building, reducing roof temperatures. Thermal emittance, the ability of a material to emit heat to the surrounding atmosphere, also plays a role.
Cool roofing products are made of highly reflective and emissive materials that can remain approximately 50º to 60°F cooler than traditional materials during peak summer weather. Note that traditional roofs in the United States can reach summer peak temperatures of 150º to 185°F .
With energy savings in mind, the first thing to consider is the solar reflectance of the roofing materialthe higher the number the better. Solar reflectance will depend on composition of the roofing material as well as its color. In general, lighter colored materials will reflect more solar radiation than darker materials, and smooth materials will reflect more than coarse materials. However, new advances in materials and techniques are reaching the marketplace, so there are exceptions to these rules of thumb. Cool color pigments can make a dark color perform like a light color.
From the EPA Benefits of a Cool Roof:
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Surprising Things That Lower Home Insurance Premiums
Lindus Construction writes that No. 1 is a brand new hail resistant shingles roof or a metal one at that, stating further that, “Insurance companies also look favorably on metal roofing because research has shown that homes with metal roofs receive less damage from storms and house fires, which means the company is much less likely to have to pay an insurance claim.” Consequently, as the damage severity or likelihood is reduced, the discounts to annual premiums and lower deductible options are savings that may become beneficial over several years.
Fast And Urgent Delivery Of Products And Services
Are you just growing tired of the slow response of your local roofing contractor? Have you been on the search for the best, the most reliable, and the most dependable Metal Roofing Contractor in the city?
Metro Metal Roofing Company of Orlando has never been beaten when it comes to response times, deliveries, and addressing of concern. For years, we stood as the top and the most trusted Metal Roofing Contractor and company in the whole of Orlando.
Working our way from being the top-rated and the most sought after Metal Roof Repair Company, we easily became the best and the most relied on Metal Roofing Contractor, capable of providing a whole wide range of Metal Roofing Services. Get the services that you need in the swiftest and the most urgent manner you can by choosing us and our Metal Roofing Services, here at Metro Metal Roofing Company of Orlando!
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What Gauge Metal Roofing Is Best For Houses
It depends on where you live, but most homes in the United States that have metal roofs use 29-gauge panels. 29-gauge panels are the thinnest, so they tend to be the cheapest for homeowners. Houses dont typically need thicker panels, so unless you live in an area that gets plenty of hailstorms throughout the year, your best bet would probably be 29-gauge.
Metal Roofs Are More Sustainable And Make Less Of An Environmental Impact Than Shingle
Metal roofing has a high recycled content which means it helps reduce landfill pressure instead of adding to it like asphalt shingles.
While it can be done, recycling shingles is much less common than recycling metal. Consequently, worn-out shingles typically end up in landfills. Many local landfills have more shingles than they care to accept and charge exorbitant fees to discard them.
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Install A New Metal Roof Today
Endless Summer Roofing is your local roofing expert in Metal Roofing. Our experienced team can walk you through all roofing options. Check out our YouTube videos for local metal roof installations. Also, if you suspect roof damage or would like a qualified professional to look at your roof, give us a call at 467-7398. And remember, our roofing inspections are always free.
The Pros Of Metal Roofing
It lasts longer and will hold during high winds. Safe, energy efficient, resistant to mildew, rot, and insects. Low maintenance costs Available in copper, tin, zinc, galvanized steel or copper. Lighter in weight can be installed on a minimal pitch roof. The great advantage of Metal Roofing is the opportunity to obtain a design that will fit your home construction beautifully. For example, you might choose Spanish or mission tile, wood shakes, slate, Victorian metal tiles, shingles or panels, whichever will best complete your overall look. Special designs, such as tiles, do not give the appearance of metal roofing. There are a number of colors available, so it is easy to match the color of your home.
Disadvantages
CON: Metal roofs are expensive.
Although today’s metal roofs are designed to withstand decades of abuse from extreme weatherincluding, heavy snow and ice, both of which slide right down slick metal slope rather than linger and cause leakage, some metal can still be dented by large hail or falling branches. Depending on the type of roof, you may not even be able to walk on metal shingles without damaging them. If these drawbacks sound more like dealbreakers, rest assure that they can be sidestep altogether if you choose the right shingle. Some types of metal are just stronger than others. Aluminum and copper, for example, are both softer and therefore more prone to this type of damage than, say, steel.
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Metal Roofs Offer Style Safety And Sustainability
Just like with traditional roofing material, you have options when you decide to go with a metal roof. Theyre made from zinc, tin, aluminum, copper, or steel with a nearly limitless color palate. Metal panels can be finished to match the style of your home. Want a more traditional look? Manufacturers can shape metal into shingles, tiles, or wood shakes to mimic your neighborhoods roofs.
Hurricanes pose one of the most significant weather threats to Florida homeowners. Metal roofs have the highest wind resistance rating in comparison to other roofing options. According to the Metal Roofing Alliance, metal roofs withstood 140 mph rating in wind uplift tests. In fact, one Florida homeowner said her metal roof was a lifesaver during Hurricane Michael in 2018. As the family hunkered down in the bathroom, a 60-foot pine tree landed just above them on the metal roof without even leaving a dent.
Properly grounded metal roofs provide better protection against fire if your home is hit by lightning. Research by the Metal Construction Association shows a metal roof will conduct a lighting strikes energy across the roof area, reducing heat and potential fire damage. During dryer months, wildfires can also pose a threat to homes in Northeast Florida. Metal roofs are practically fireproof, protecting against flying embers.
Why Metal Roofing Is The Choice For Southern Florida Homeowners
When someone considers how a home keeps cool, the most common thing that comes to mind is air conditioning. But the first real line of defense against the heat is the homes roof. And a hot day in the life of a good roof should include reflecting not storing and absorbing the suns rays. You might have thought that shingle is just shingle but theres actually quite a big difference between the different options, as you can see in this article called 6 Types of Roofing Shingles.
Traditional shingle and even tile roofing materials hold and transfer heat. Most conventional roofing products will hold heat, and even transfer it downward into a structure, while metal roofing will reflect heat upward and away from a building instead. Changing your roof can be difficult if you dont have the correct supplies to help you take on such a task. So, if you are interested in changing your roof, you may want to check out your local hardware store for all your building needs.
Metal roofing is quickly becoming the most popular type of roofing among South Florida homeowners, and currently accounts for about 10-14% of all re-roofing projects in the United States. They are most popular in Southeastern states, like Florida, where tropical storms are a threat. People do often consider insulating underneath with spray foam roofing, however, for an extra level of security.
Other reasons include the following:
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