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What Is A Seamless Metal Roof

What Gauge Is Standing Seam Metal Roofing

How to Install a Standing Seam Metal Roof from Start to Finish

The vast majority of standing seam metal roofing jobs are 24 gauge steel. Its a premium roofing system thats expected to last 40 plus years. The components must be designed to work as a whole. Standing seam roofing panels are the most expensive panels and use the best paint system. It wouldnt make sense to use a light gauge steel for minimal savings and lesser performance.

How Much Do The Metal Roofs Cost

A standing seam metal roof requires a thicker gauge of metal and a skilled craftsman for installation. This makes the labor cost and the material cost go up, which makesa standing seam metal roof cost more than a screw down metal roof.

As Ive said before, I wouldnt recommend using a screw down panel over any heated space. Does a standing seam cost a little more? Yes, upfront you’re going to pay triple. What you need to ask yourself is if almost zero maintenance and peace of mind for the next 50 years is worth the extra money.

Whatever your budget, the contractor you hire should work with you and your finances to give you the best roof that will last you years to come.

Roof Painting Prices For Standing Seam Metal Roofs

Many homeowners paint their standing seam metal roofs to match their homes appearance. The cost to paint your metal roof will depend on the paint finish you choose, but most homeowners will pay between $1,000 and $3,000 minimum. If youre looking for a more budget-friendly option, basic polyester paint finishes are perfectly acceptable.

If youre interested in a more premium finish, however, many roofers recommend a more expensive paint topped with a Kynar 500 coating. This coating is rated highly by the Cool Roofing Rating Council2 because it reflects heat and saves you money on your electricity bills. This paint and coating are more expensive, but worth the extra cost.

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Not All Standing Seam Roofs Are Created Equal

Through Fastened Standing SeamAlso called exposed fastener, these are sheets of corrugated metal that laid on the roof, with screws are driven through them to secure them to the roof deck. These panels have no built-in allowance for the metals movement with temperature change. As a result, the fasteners bear the forces of thermal movement. This causes fastener holes to wallow out and fasteners to back out or even break over time.

Nail Hem Standing SeamThese panels have a nailing strip running down one side, usually with elongated holes designed to allow for the expansion and contraction of the roof panels. If the fasteners are over-driven or if the fasteners are not all located exactly in the middle of the slotted hole, the allowance for expansion is ruined. This causes ripples to appear in the panels. Many of these products also have lower quality coatings.

These panels are designed with clip fasteners that allow the metal roofing panels to float as needed with the naturally occurring expansion and contraction of the metal caused by temperature changes. Additionally, standing seam panels and their accessories are designed to have only concealed fasteners. The highest quality standing seam systems will have PVDF coatings noted for their fade and chalk resistance.

The Roofing Materials That Make Up A Standing Seam Roof

Standing Seam Metal Roof on Vashon Island  Valentine Roofing

A standing seam metal roof system is more than just the metal panels you see from the street. Its made up of different metal roofing materials and components to form a complete roof system.

A standing seam metal roof system is made up of the following components:

  • Roof decking: The wooden boards that make up the framing of your roof.
  • Starter lock strip: Lock strips are what hold your standing seam metal panels to your roof edges and keep them from flapping in the wind or strong storms.
  • Underlayment: Underlayment is usually a felt material used over your decking to provide additional protection. For your standing seam metal roof, your underlayment will be a self-adhering, high heat ice and water shield.
  • Metal panels: The metal panels are what you see and what makes up the bulk of your standing seam metal roof. Usually, the panels are made of 24 gauge pre-finished steel with a Kynar 500 finish . However, you can get a different size gauge and multiple colors to choose from.
  • Clips: Unseen fasteners that hold each panel to the roof deck.
  • Z bar: A piece of metal flashing bent in the shape of a Z that is 1/8th of an inch taller than the ribs on your metal panels.
  • Ridge capping: The trim installed at the peak where the two slopes of a roof meet.

To go more in-depth into these crucial components, read this article on what materials make up a standing seam metal roof.

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Painted Aluminum Standing Seam Roofs

Aluminum is the most affordable standing seam roofing material. It may dent more easily than steel, but it offers quality corrosion resistance and can be painted in a variety of colors, which can allow for a more congruent aesthetic on any type of home which makes it a popular choice for standing seam metal roofing.

What Is Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Standing seam metal roofing is defined as a concealed fastener metal panel system that features vertical legs and a broad, flat area between the two legs. Its also described as having raised seams, or vertical legs, that rise above the panels flat area. Standing seam systems can be used for either metal roofing or metal walls.

The main idea for standing seam systems is that the fastener is hidden, whether the panel is attached to the roof deck using a clip or is directly fastened to the decking material under the vertical leg .

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What Is A Metal Roof Uses Types And Definitions

Stores, homes, offices, barns, hotels metal roofs are everywhere. Become an educated consumer by learning what a metal roof is and its various uses, types, and definitions.

Whether you notice them or not, metal roofs are everywhere. You probably wouldnt normally think to look at the roof on a home, but if you take a drive down any road in any city, youre likely to find a house or building donning some kind of metal roof.

But how much do you know about metal roofing? Did you know that its a low-maintenance roofing option that can last decades? Or that you can choose from a variety of shapes, looks, and styles, such as standing seam or stamped metal roofing?

At Sheffield Metals, we know how important it is to choose the best roofing type for your needs, which is why we think explaining the basics of metal roofing will assist in your decision-making process.

In this article, we are going to discuss:

  • Reasons to consider or choose a metal roof
  • Common roof terms and definitions
  • The different uses and applications of metal roofing
  • Types and options available with metal roofing

High Heat Ice And Water Shield As Underlayment

Corrugated Metal Panels vs. Standing Seam Metal Roofing | Roofing Mythbusters Series – Episode #4

Underlayment is usually a felt material used over your decking to provide additional protection. That makes it a crucial component to your metal roof.

For your standing seam metal roof, your underlayment will be a self-adhering, high heat ice and water shield. Your metal roofs high heat ice and water shield is your roof systems last line of defense for your decking.

Be aware, the ice and water shield must be installed over the lock strip at the eaves. If the lock strip is installed over the underlayment, the condensation under the ribs will run down the fascia board behind the lock strip and leave streaks on the fascia and eventually rot it.

Its absolutely crucial that the underlayment is installed over the lock strip on your standing seam metal roof.

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Allowance For Thermal Movement

Did you know that excessive heat can cause your roof materials to expand? This means that your roof panels may experience a small amount of movement over time. Roof fasteners work against this natural expansion and contraction by preventing natural movement. This can weaken your roof. The good news is that standing seam roofs arent fastened, which allows them to expand and contract. Theyre also painted with a PVDF paint system. This resin-based coating allows increased weather protection for your roof.

Tested To A High Standard

Worried about the integrity of a standing seam metal roof? These systems are stringently tested to high industry standards. These tests include wind uplift, water penetration, air leakage, fire, and impact resistance. This should give you peace of mind during that South Florida hurricane season.

Pro Tip: When it comes to finding a roofing contractor, make sure you find one that has been tried and tested. Check what certification and memberships they carry. For example, check if theyre a member of the Roofing Contractors Association of South Florida. This will prevent frustrations down the line.

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What Is The Best Underlayment For A Metal Roof

Underlayment is a crucial roofing component that every metal roof needs to have. Because a metal roof will be a large investment, you definitely want the best quality underlayment.

Dont get me wrong, the different types of underlayment do their job well and have their place in the roofing industry. However, theres one type thats best to use on a metal roof system.

Here at Bill Ragan Roofing, we want to give you key information to ensure you get the most out of your metal roof investment. Thats why were going to break down the best underlayment for a metal roof, the proper way to install it, and how much it costs.

Before we get to all that, lets do a quick overview of what roof underlayment is.

Are Standing Seam Metal Roofs Environmentally Friendly

Metal Roofing Hanover PA: Corrugated, Standing Seam Metal Roofs

Compared to asphalt shingle roofs, metal roofs are significantly more environmentally friendly. Many of the metals used in roofing, such as aluminum, are highly recyclable and are repurposed instead of ending up in a landfill.

Standing seam metal roofs are more energy efficient because they must be installed with proper insulation to prevent excess noise. This insulation not only dampens noise but boosts energy efficiency for your entire home, saving you money on your energy bills.

Your new metal roof may qualify you for a federal or local tax credit of up to 10% of the cost of installation. For example, some Energy Star-certified metal roofs qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $500.

Low-income households may also have access to government programs that offer roofing assistance. One example is the federal weatherization assistance program that gives low-income families financial help to pay for energy efficient home upgrades.1 This program may not cover the entire cost of your new roof, but can give you a significant boost.

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What Gauge Metal Roof Is Best: 24 Gauge Vs 26 Gauge

Metal Gauge | Gauge

If youre currently picking out metal roofing, deciding on which metal gauge to use is a choice that youll have to make.

If you havent already picked out any of the above, we highly suggest you look at those choices first. The gauge should be one of the last decisions you make regarding your metal roofing panels.

The reason for choosing gauge last is that it could be already decided for you based on one of the other options you choose. For example, if you want a standing seam metal roof or a flush wall siding panel, you will be automatically using 24 gauge as the sheets arent available in a lighter gauge.

Western States Metal Roofing has been manufacturing metal roofing and siding panels for over two decades and has helped thousands of customers choose the right metal panels for their building projects. We know from experience that one of the choices that is sometimes overlooked is which gauge metal to use.

There is no standard gauge for metal roofing. However, 24-gauge and 26-gauge are the preferred metal roofing thickness for most residential and commercial applications. There are times when one metal roofing gauge thickness is a better choice than the other.

In this article, we will go over how to choose between 24 gauge and 26 gauge metal depending on different factors such as the type of roofing panels so you have a better idea of which is best for you to use.

Standing Seam Metal Roofing Explained

Like corrugated metal roofs, standing seam roofs are also designed with metal panels that are fabricated by roll forming. The key difference is in the design and application standing seam roofs take full advantage of having concealed fasteners. A standing seam system consists of wide, relatively flat metal panels that have vertical legs on each end. The metal panels are designed to lock together, and are mounted to the roof by being fastened to the sheathing underneath through a series of hidden clips. All the roof attachments and seams are literally hidden beneath the vertical legs of the standing seam panels.

PROS: When it comes to the pros of a standing seam metal roof, there are many. For starters, the panels are fabricated with a stronger gauge of metal than is used for corrugated metal. No exposed fasteners or seams mean there are essentially no opportunities for leaks to develop, and a standing seam system also requires much less in the way of maintenance. Its also highly customizable in terms of colors and profile options, and a standing seam metal roof is even more efficient at reflecting away light and heat. Aesthetically speaking, many homeowners prefer the visual appeal of a standing seam roof with its flat panels and sleek lines. And in terms of longevity, a standing seam roof can easily last you 75 years, or more!

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What Is Roof Underlayment

Roof underlayment is the roofing material thats installed directly over your roof decking for extra protection from the elements. There are two different types of underlayment, felt and synthetic.

Felt underlayment is the older of the two and comes in 15 lb and 30 lb rolls. The big difference between the two types of felt underlayment is that 30 lb is thicker, stronger, and less likely to tear than 15 lb.

Synthetic underlayment has been around for about 20 years and is made out of woven/spun polyethylene or polypropylene. I personally recommend synthetic underlayment.

However, its up to you and your budget to decide which one is right for your roof.

Benefits Of Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Standing Seam Metal Roof Installation and Benefits

Each of these three systems has different pros and cons, but there are some standing seam benefits that are universal.

  • Modern looking with clean lines and a sleek appearance.
  • Concealed Fasteners – Fasteners dont penetrate the panel. This eliminates visible screw heads and screw holes, which can cause leaks.
  • Low Maintenance

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Faq About Standing Seam Metal Roofs

1. What is standing seam metal roofing?

Standing seam metal roofs use metal panels that connect to each other with unexposed fasteners, which makes them more durable and less prone to damage than other roof types. The metal used for standing seam roofing is typically thicker and more durable than other styles of metal roofs, such as metal shingles.

2. Does standing seam metal roofing cost more than shingles?

Yes, the materials and labor will cost a lot more for standing seam metal roofing than for traditional shingles. As a tradeoff for the extra upfront cost, youll spend less on maintenance, repairs, and replacements over the years.

3. How long do standing seam metal roofs last?

A standing seam metal roof usually lasts at least 50 years. Some last up to 100 years. The better you maintain your roof, the longer it will last.

4. Can you install standing seam metal roofing yourself?

No. You should never attempt to DIY any large roofing project because of the many safety hazards. You especially shouldnt try to install standing seam metal roofing because it takes expertise and specialty tools to do it right .

Final Thoughts On Standing Seam Vs Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing

So which metal roofing type should you choose? It depends.

Standing seam and exposed fastener metal roofing both have their pros and cons, but if you know what youre looking for and expecting when you go to purchase the roof, youll be better prepared to make the right choice.

Keep in mind:

  • Standing seam metal roofing offers a sleek modern look, weathertight warranty options, space for thermal movement, engineering/better performance, and no panel penetrations.
  • Exposed fastener metal roofing offers a lower price point, opportunities for DIY projects, a roof that performs well, and a traditional look.

At Sheffield Metals, we are here to answer your questions and provide you with peace of mind as you go through choosing the right metal roofing type for your structure whether its standing seam, exposed fastener, or another material type.

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Nail Flange Or Fastener Flange Profiles

Nail flange is similar to a snap-lock panel system, but instead of using a clip to attach the panel to the roof deck, its directly fastened down to the deck through the male leg of the metal panel. Once the fasteners are in place, the female leg of the panel snaps over the entirety of the male leg, which hides the fastener head.

Nail Flange & Fastener Flange Quick Facts:

  • Nail flange systems count solely on the head of the fastener to keep the panels attached to the deck, which could lead to problems in the future.
  • Nail flange systems are a popular choice for residential applications because it tends to be the cheapest option for standing seam due to fewer required accessories for installation.
  • Fastener/nail flange metal roofs are not the best performing systems and often lack engineering. Plus, they:
  • Follow the imperfections of the roof deck
  • Dont always accept roof clamps for snow retention or solar panels
  • Cannot go on low-slope applications
  • Are pinned, thus limiting expansion and contraction
  • Can be difficult to snap together
  • Can distort over time if formed in a rollformer where the drive and forming rollers arent separate
  • These systems are also limited in length .
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