FAQs
ARE PRE-PAINTED METAL ROOFS ‘BETTER’ THAN SHINGLE ROOFS?
In a lot of applications, steel roofs offer superior performance to other roofing materials including fibreglass and asphalt shingles.
1.Prepainted metal panels are typically seamless from the eave to the ridge. This is invaluable in high wind environments.
2.Over the life of the roof, metal is a more cost effective option than conventional shingles
3.There are 30+ colours and several styles available that can often accommodate the desired aesthetic.
DO METAL ROOFS LEAK?
When installed correctly, metal roofs do not leak and do stand the test of time. Often, careless installation, or incorrectly specified roofing styles are to blame. Metal roofing is not one size fits all. Proper assembly and installation techniques can not be overstated!
DO METAL ROOFS RUST?
All baycoat painted metal panels and trims are accompanied with a 40 year paint warranty. If installed correctly, the panels will not fade or chalk, let alone rust or fatigue for a long time.
Canadian-made Leland fastener’s warranty matches each specific panel warranty.
WILL SNOW AND ICE DAMAGE A METAL ROOF?
Typically metal roofs stand up very well to large amounts of snow and ice. This makes metal roofs an ideal choice in colder climates. Snow and ice control should be considered to mitigate indirect damage. If the potential snow and ice slide pose a threat to structures, eavestroughs, vehicles, or pedestrian traffic it is imperative to utilize some form of snow control.
HOW LONG DOES A METAL ROOF LAST?
Most pre-painted metal roofing coils produced in Canada are accompanied with a 40yr paint warranty. It is expected that the roof will outlast this in most environments. Unfortunately, some heavy industrial areas may experience premature failure due to toxic contaminants in the air.
WHAT KIND OF WARRANTY IS REASONABLE ON INSTALLATION?
Metler Metal Solutions works closely with a network of professional installers that service the Niagara region and abroad. A five year warranty on workmanship is standard, but installers may vary on their assurances.
WILL A METAL ROOF ATTRACT LIGHTNING?
Factors such as the overall height of a structure and the quality of the “grounding” are more reliable indicators of the attractiveness to lightning. In some instances, the non-combustable property of a metal roof may limit damage in the event of a lightning strike.
IS IT EASY TO INSTALL A METAL ROOF?
There are various types of metal roofs available. Common, exposed-fastener style roofs are fairly simple to install with minimal guidance. “Working at heights” is often the barrier to entry for most do-it-yourselfers. Sheds, lean-toos, and small garages can be a fun project for a competent do-it-yourselfer. Complex roofs, roofs that are high in the air, or roofing styles such as mechanically-locked panels may require an experienced installer and specialized tools to achieve a safe and successful installation.
REASONS WHY YOU MAY NOT WANT A METAL ROOF?
1.Budget: Although in the long run metal roofs are cost effective, Initial costs are often more than an asphalt or shingle roof.
2.Design: Some roof designs are not adequate for metal installation. Flat or low sloped roofs may be better served by a modified bitumen or TPO style roof. Complex roofs with lots of angles and obstructions may require excessive material due to waste/cutting and may require extensive labour to install.
3.Aesthetic: If you don’t like the look of metal, or think it may look out of place in your neighborhood, find another option!
4.Permission: Some HOA or condo associations may not permit metal roofs for various reasons generally related to common building materials of other units. We are always happy to discuss benefits to a board!
5.Oil Canning: If you don’t like the look of any distortion in metal. “Oil Canning” is an inherent property in all light gauge cold rolled metal. This process can be mitigated by creating a level roof deck, adding striations/stiffening ribs and by following best practices for installation.
Typically, less profile in a panel will reduce the rigidity and can allow for more distortion. Bear in mind, oil canning is not an indication of any lack of structural integrity and will not lead to any long term fatigue or failure - it is strictly aesthetic!
6.Corrosive environments: Consider if your building contains or emits contaminants that are known to corrode paint or metal. The G90 substrate in of Metler’s products is superior to a galvalume substrate, but in the harshest conditions may not be your best option.
ARE METAL ROOFS EXPENSIVE?
Generally, metal roofs are more costly than alternatives. Some factors which may bring the cost down:
1. On an outbuilding, shed, etc. strapping may be installed in place of 1⁄2” plywood which may offer a savings of $1+ / sf
2. On an existing roof, if there is 1 layer of shingles, and there is no known rot, the shingles may remain, saving labour, environmental fees and the need for an underlayment membrane. These savings can add up to $1.50+ / sf
3. Amortized over the lifespan of a metal roof as opposed to that of 3 conventional shingle roofs - they are very economical.
ARE METAL ROOFS LOUD?
Having a solid substrate like plywood (with existing shingles), attic insulation and drywall can drastically calm the sound. But yes, an uninsulated structure with no ceiling like a barn can be very loud in a storm!
I WAS TOLD A METAL ROOF CAN BE INSTALLED DIRECTLY OVER SHINGLES?
Leaving existing shingles intact may be fine if certain criteria are met.
1.Adequate substrate for fastening: Screws could be following horizontal joints in the roof deck or could be failing to bite into the substrate for other reasons and not hold. Installing strapping over the roof first is great insurance.
2.Abrasion Protection: Metal expands and contracts as the mercury flows. Shingles act as sandpaper and wear away the underside of metal panels or metal shingles. A synthetic high temperature underlayment applied between the existing shingles and the new metal could be a solution.
DO YOU NEED TO MAINTAIN A METAL ROOF?
The most important thing to maintain on a metal roof is the build up of debris of leaves, sticks, moss and other organic materials. Over time, these materials can cause premature failure of the paint. If fasteners are not installed to the correct torque they can work themselves out. A periodic visual inspection is generally adequate to ensure the roof is sound.