Commercial metal roofs are a substantial investment, but when done right, they provide decades of benefits for occupants and business owners. If you’re like most commercial building owners, you probably have many questions you want answered before settling on roofing materials. Continue reading this article to learn about the advantages of metal roofs and the answers to several common questions, including:
What Are the Advantages of Metal Roofs?
Commercial metal roofs offer many benefits for commercial projects. They rank among the most long-lasting, durable, and resistant types of roofing materials. Let’s explore some of the most noteworthy advantages of metal roofs.
Damage Resistance
Metal systems are rust-, moss-, fungus-, hail-, impact-, wind-, and fire-resistant. Even better, you get these advantages of metal roofing while only needing routine maintenance to keep your roof at optimal performance.
Lightweight Material
Roofing contractors and building owners love commercial metal roofs because they are lightweight. In fact, metal weighs between 50 and 150 pounds per square compared to the roughly 900 pounds per square of slate tiles. This weight difference makes metal panels much easier and quicker to install and repair. It also eliminates the need to factor in additional structural support.
Snow and Rain Shedding
Metal roofing is the perfect solution to the rain and snow of Minnesota. The hard, slick texture makes it more difficult for rainwater or snow to accumulate. If you choose a dark color for your metal system, the stored heat also helps melt ice and snow quicker and simplifies snow removal.
Energy Efficiency
If lowering utility bills and controlling internal temperatures are priorities, you’re sure to love commercial metal roofing. Because metal reflects UV rays and radiant heat, you can expect a significant drop in your heating and cooling costs.
Eco-Friendly Design
Another advantage of metal roofs is that they’re made of up to 95% recycled materials and are entirely recyclable after uninstalling. Commercial metal roofs are becoming increasingly attractive as the world continues to grow more environmentally conscious. It’s estimated that asphalt shingle roof materials account for up to 20 billion pounds of waste added to landfills each year.
Curb Appeal
Commercial metal roofing is a desirable option for more than just functionality. One of the most significant advantages of metal roofs is the design customization they allow. You can give your roof the precise look and feel you want, including texture and virtually any color.
How Long Do Metal Roofs Last?
Commercial metal roofs, including galvanized and standing seam varieties, boast a long service life of up to 70 years when properly installed and maintained. Compared to other types of roofs you might be researching, like TPO or EPDM, that’s an additional 50 years of not having to budget for a new roof. For an even longer-lasting solution, copper roofs last up to 100 years.
Do Metal Roofs Reflect Heat?
Yes, commercial metal roofs do reflect heat. Furthermore, metal systems are estimated to lower energy bills by up to 40%, depending on the type of roof you currently have. There’s also cool roofing for an even more heat-reflecting metal solution. Studies suggest a cool metal roof can save an additional 20% based on how much direct sunlight your system is exposed to.
How Does Metal Roofing Overlap?
Experienced commercial metal roofing experts use a variety of techniques to ensure water flows from one panel to another without causing leaks or ponding. Typically, one of three metal roofing overlap methods are used:
- Side overlapping
- End lapping
- Lengthwise overlapping
What Buildings Are Suitable for Commercial Metal Roofing?
Due to its highly customizable and versatile nature, a commercial metal roof is an excellent option for almost any application. Metal roofing is applicable to steep, low, and no-slope roofs. Many buildings and industries can experience the advantages of metal roofs, including:
- Warehouses
- Manufacturing facilities
- Industrial buildings
- Strip malls
- Hotels and resorts
- Restaurants
- Community centers
- Automobile dealerships and plants
- Aviation storage facilities
- Hospitals
- Churches
- Educational facilities
- Production plants
How Much Does a Commercial Metal Roof Cost?
There is no blanket cost to commercial metal roof systems. Many factors determine the price of a new roof. The total square footage, type of metal, amount of time and labor required to remove the existing roof, and many other factors all shape the cost of a project.
Commercial metal roofs generally have higher upfront costs than single-ply systems or shingles. But one of the main advantages of metal roofs is the long-term savings they provide. Their longevity, easy maintenance, energy efficiency, and durability keep your costs lower than most other types of roofing.
Rainville-Carlson offers attractive financing options if you are interested in a metal system, but budget concerns are an issue.
Does a Commercial Metal Roof Increase the Chance of Lightning Strikes?
Despite what you may have heard, metal roofing does not increase the chance of lightning striking a building. Going a step further, commercial metal roofs are a Class-A fire-resistant and noncombustible material. This makes them one of the best systems for facilities in areas with frequent lightning strikes.
Rainville-Carlson Provides Free Commercial Metal Roof Consultations
If you still have questions about the longevity, costs, or advantages of metal roofs, Rainville-Carlson is here to answer them. For nearly 100 years, we’ve provided Minnesota, Western Wisconsin, and the Eastern Dakotas with unmatched commercial metal roofing services. Our custom metal fabrication and onsite roll-forming allow us to design, create, and install a system to your specific wants and needs. Reach out today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward your new commercial metal roof.
