Metal Roofing or Asphalt Shingles?

Asphalt shingles have been a part of Maritime Canadian roofing for well over a century. They are crafted from inexpensive materials and can be put up relatively quickly. However, standing seam metal roofing has some definite advantages over their asphalt counterparts. If your home is in need of a new roof, you will want to consider the benefits that standing seam metal roofing offers.

Metal Roofs Last Far Longer than Shingles

This is arguably the advantage that most people have heard about for metal roofing in that it will last up to four times longer than asphalt shingles. Roofers in general like to install asphalt shingles because they are fairly easy to work with and require little special training. However, they also do not last very long which means that they will be replaced fairly soon which can become costly over time. However, standing seam metal will last roughly four times longer which under normal conditions means that you may need to replace a metal roof once in your lifetime.

Metal Roofing Weighs Less than Asphalt Shingles

It may sound hard to believe at first, but metal roofs weigh far less than asphalt shingles per square foot. Depending on the materials that asphalt shingles are crafted from, they can weigh from two to five pounds per square foot compared to metal which weighs on average 1 pound covering the same area. This means that if the roof is strong enough to hold asphalt shingles, it also means that the sheet metal used is light enough to be placed over the shingles as well. This means that you get a double layer of protection for your roof which will work for many years to come. But please note that removing the existing shingles is best practice.

Metal Roofs have Better Warranties

You’ll notice that many roofing companies will offer long-lasting warranties on their asphalt shingles, some of which reaching up to 50 years. However, while that may sound impressive, the truth is that the issues which develop with asphalt shingles have little to do with their inherent integrity and more to do with product defects. This means that when the asphalt shingles deteriorate in less than 20 years, the warranty will not cover its replacement. Compare that to a standing seam metal roof which lasts about four times longer and will need very little in the way of maintenance.

Standing Seam Metal Roofing Offers a Great Variety of Types of Metal, Styles, Shapes & Colors

Unlike asphalt, which pretty much looks the same, regardless of colour and/or technique, sheet metal materials can be bent and fabricated in different styles, shapes and colours to compliment your home. With this type of variety, you can choose the version that best suits your home.

It is little wonder that more people are bypassing asphalt shingles and having metal roofing installed on their homes. While it does cost more, standing seam roofs will last far longer to protect your home while complimenting the appearance of your residence. When a customer decides to commit to a metal roof they are investing in their homes and this would only be beneficial of course, not only for the time the homeowners are living in the home but also for the overall value of the home.

Standing Seam vs. Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing

Quick Description: A standing seam metal roof utilizes a concealed fastener system, which hides fasteners and offers premium longevity and durability, weathertight warranty options, and a sleek, modern style. An exposed fastener system features drilled-down, visible fasteners, simpler installation, and a lower price point when compared to standing seam metal roofs.

You might be thinking: “How different can standing seam metal roofing and exposed fastener metal roofing really be?”

The answer is: Very different.

While each system utilizes some of the same materials and ultimately performs the same function of covering and protecting a structure, standing seam and exposed fastener systems are drastically different in their benefits and drawbacks.

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. It’s also described as having raised seams, or vertical legs, that rise above the level of the panels flat area. Standing seam systems have fasteners that are hidden, whether the panel is attached to the roof deck using a clip. Standing seam is considered a higher quality system that is commonly used on residential, architectural and commercial buildings.

Advantages of Standing Seam Metal Roofing

No Exposed Fasteners – One of the most significant benefits of standing seam metal roofing is that no fasteners are visible on the surface, which means they aren’t exposed to UV, moisture, wind, and other elements that can cause a fastener to wear out over time. Also, standing seam systems don’t put holes in the panels that are protecting your structure. Plus, some people see fastener heads as unsightly, which is why using a standing seam system to hide them is common.

Weathertight Warranties Available – Another safeguard of standing seam systems are the warranties, specifically the warranties, which are offered by Metal Masters Inc. These warranties promise that the metal roofing system will not leak or fail during specific weather conditions; if it does, Metal Masters Inc. is responsible for remediating the issue.

Allows For Thermal Movement – When you restrict the expansion and contraction needed for proper thermal movement of a metal panel, you can run into problems, such as excessive oil canning, fastener withdrawal, increased noise, and more. In standing seam roofing systems, the panels generally aren’t double pinned, meaning they can expand and contract better. This is especially true if slider/expansion clips are installed where the metal can move freely .

Longevity & Lifecycle – Standing Seam Metal roofing lasts significantly longer and requires less maintenance, especially when compared to other roofing types, such as asphalt shingles. Since fasteners don’t penetrate the surface of the metal on a standing seam system, regular maintenance to check for withdrawing, loose, or damaged fasteners is even less frequent. However, maintenance on a standing seam roof is still essential and often must be performed by a professional contractor.

Sleek, Consistent, & Modern Look – Standing seam is becoming more and more popular in architectural applications because of its modern and clean look. In addition to the sleek, straight lines offered by these panel systems, it can be offered using different sheet metals and come in virtually any color.

Architectural Freedom – Standing seam panels can be used on structures with many different planes and sophisticated, complex designs, which is another reason why architects frequently specify these systems.

Metal Material Options – Some consumers think that standing seam metal roofing is only available in Galvalume or other steel substrates. In fact, painted aluminum, zinc, and copper are all viable options for standing seam profiles. Remember to look for and ensure that these alternatives are installed to local building codes, as installation methods can vary from steel for these other materials.

Non-Penetrating Mounting Options – One of the best parts about standing seam is the option to mount items, such as solar panels, snow retention systems, or other rooftop additions, without penetrating or making any holes in the surface of the roof.

Disadvantages of Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Higher Cost – One of the most significant drawbacks to standing seam metal roofing is the fact that it can be more expensive when compared to other metal roofing types, especially exposed fastener systems. However, it’s not always the highest price, as metal shingles and other stamped metal materials tend to come in at a higher price, even though stamped materials are often made from 26 gauge or thinner substrates.

Less Qualified Contractors Available – Finding a contractor who is qualified, skilled, and experienced in metal roof installation is crucial, especially because standing seam systems require careful craftsmanship. Since standing seam installations may be considered too complicated or tedious, there are far fewer contractors to choose from who have a proven track record and relevant experience.

Labor-Intensive Installation Process – For exposed fastener systems, it’s a relatively simple process of putting the material on the roof deck and nailing/screwing it down. For standing seam, it’s much more complex and labor-intensive.

Not Suited For Flat Structures – Although standing seam performs extremely well on low sloped roofs, standing seam systems are not suitable for buildings or homes that have a roof below a 1/12 pitch. These flatter structures don’t allow water to adequately drain, which could lead to premature degradation, color changes, and the overall failure of the panel system.