A commercial building differs from other structures because its primary design is for businesses to operate. The designs can vary depending on the purpose, but most buildings of this category have similar features. Metal Roofs Access Ladders are one of the most common features as it is among the most durable and dependable materials.
Suppose you’re thinking about installing a metal roof on your property. In that case, you should be aware of the numerous benefits and the significant disadvantages of this roofing material. Here is a quick rundown of metal roofing’s advantages and disadvantages to enable you to make informed choices for your project and get the most out of it:
Pros of Metal Roofs
1. Quick Installation
Interruption to your business operations is highly costly. You waste so much money every time your business closes outside of typical days. Projects involving metal roofing are often significantly more efficient than projects involving any other material.
Most metal roofing materials are available in panels or multiple-shingle pieces that you can install quickly. They’re lightweight and don’t require any further structural support. You can apply it over existing shingles without tearing them off and install it on slightly pitched roofs without leaks.
2. Durability
Metal roofs are robust and can last for over 40 years, avoiding pricey roof replacements. Rain, strong winds, hail, snow, and other forms of harsh weather have little effect on the material. Metal is resilient to decay that impacts other materials. Furthermore, because it can direct water along defined routes, the smooth surface is suitable for efficient drainage.
Unlike other roofing materials, metal does not break, split, chip, dry out, warp, or rot. It can survive severe winds up to 140 mph and storms without significant damage since it comprises interlocking panels that give great wind and water resistance.
The material is resistant to animal infestation, non-porous, inhibiting fungus, mildew, and moss growth. Many owners believe that copper and zinc roofs are lifelong roofing solutions. Lastly, some manufacturers provide a 30-50 year material guarantee coverage.
3. Low Maintenance Costs
Metal roofs do not decay rapidly and have low repair and maintenance costs due to their durability and resilience to the elements. Metal roofing’s remarkable sturdiness allows them to pay for themselves over time. They cost less to repair, but they also require less routine care than asphalt shingles.
4. Energy Efficient
Metal roofs are substantially more reflective than black asphalt shingles that absorb the sun’s radiation and raise the temperature of your building. It might have a considerable impact on your utility bills during the summer. Additionally, AC units will run more smoothly when it comes to maintaining the coolness of your building, resulting in minor wear and tear on your HVAC system.
Rather than trapping solar heat, metal surfaces reflect it. This reflecting nature allows owners and businesses to save up to 40% on cooling expenditures during the hot summer months. In most metal roofing systems, a “dead-air space” exists between the roof deck and the metal coating, which helps boost energy efficiency in the cooler months by lowering heating costs by 10-15%.
5. Fire-resistant
From flammable objects dropping on your roof to flames starting inside your property, one thing is sure: metal roofs do not catch fire easily. Of course, it does not mean that a metal roof can prohibit any fires, but non-combustible materials reduce the chances of a fire spreading.
Because it’s a non-combustible material, metal roofs will not burn and will efficiently protect your commercial establishment from airborne sparks and embers from wildfires when they happen.
Cons of Metal Roofs
1.Corrosion
Metal roofing can corrode with time, especially if exposed to areas near the ocean. As a result, you must cover your metal roofs with a special protective coating to avoid corrosion. Roofs made of aluminum, zinc, or copper do not rust and do not require coating.
2. Upfront Expense
The most significant disadvantage of selecting a metal roof is the high initial cost since metal roofs can be 5-10 times more expensive than other materials. Furthermore, the specialized equipment and specialist skills required for metal roofing installation are more complicated. Metal roofing may not be a wise financial move if you’re purchasing a roof for a structure you have a short-term interest and not a long-term commitment.
3. Challenging to Access
Stepping on a metal roof is difficult and dangerous, especially in wet conditions, because the surface becomes slick and provides no traction, making it easy to fall accidentally. Furthermore, cutting through a metal roof to gain access to a building during an emergency takes much longer and is much more complex.
4. Contraction and Expansion – Metal Roofs
As temperatures increase and fall, metal expands and contracts, generating a wavy look. As a result, an appropriate fastening system is essential to handle the movement and minimize possible damage to the metal roof throughout this process; otherwise, the roof’s framing fasteners would come loose, and the metal panels will no longer be stable.
5. Noisy
A metal roof will be louder and noisier than other roofing because water will tap on it, particularly during a hard rain or hailstorm. Although some individuals find the sound of rain comforting, the constant drumming may disturb your sleep or work due to the excessive noise.
You can limit the sound heard inside by adding extra layers of solid sheathing (wood planks or plywood) or insulation beneath the metal coating during the installation process. It will make the metal roof as quiet as an asphalt shingle roof. However, keep in mind that the additional insulation will raise the roof’s overall cost.
Takeaway
Metal roofs are among the most typical roofing material for many reasons. You can have some peace of mind knowing that your commercial structure’s top area is in relatively excellent condition. However, it would be best to work with a licensed expert before making any significant move. You’ll know the best options for your unique setting by doing so.