Metal Roofing Myths- Debunked

Rain:

A common misconception with a metal roof is that the rain is loud. As surprising as it may be, metal roofing is often quieter than an asphalt shingle roof. When installed with solid sheathing, a metal roof on your home will actually silence noise from rain, hail and bad weather better than other roofing materials.

 

Lightning:

People tend to believe that just because they have a Metal roof that it will draw lightning to it. When in reality, lightning typically strikes the highest object in an area. That’s why it often strikes trees, power poles, antennas, and towers. Since metal is noncombustible, it is actually safer than some other roof types such as wood.

 

Walking on your roof:

Some people believe that because it is a Metal roof that it cannot be walked on. When in reality you can walk on it just fine. However, it is suggested to speak to the manufacturer of the product to learn the proper way to walk on it, and more importantly- where to walk on it.

 

Color Fading:

Metal roofs are painted with high-performance polymers that have exceptional weathering properties. Over time you might notice a slight change in color due to the settling of airborne contamination., but occasional rain or washing the roof with a garden hose (from the ground) will keep the roof looking like new.

Common Roofing Mistakes

• Improper flashing:  Flashing is a transitional material to connect the metal roof to “non-roof” items such as skylights, chimneys and vents. Flashing seams should be properly sealed to allow water to flow on top of the roofing material and prevent moisture from creeping into crevices or under the metal roofing.
  
  
• Wrong underlayment or vapor barrier material: Underlayment is considered the second line of defense against seepage if roofing material or flashing is compromised. To protect the underside of metal roofing panels, your roofing contractor should use underlayment with a smooth, non-granulated surface.
  
  
• Damaged roof structure: The installer must check for dry rot and other signs of water damage on the roof deck before the metal roofing installation. Metal expands and contracts. Without a solid base and proper installation, metal roofing will break loose or create gaps for moisture to seep in.
  
  
• Voiding the warranty: Be sure you and/ or your roofing contractor read the manufacturer’s instructions and install accordingly. Improper installation may void the warranty—which could cost you thousands in repair or replacement costs if something goes wrong.

Roofing Accessories

When buying a Metal Roofing Package you'll want to make sure you are crossing you T's and dotting your I's.  Covering every end of the roof. Including all the accessories. 

A major benefit of B&B Wholesale Metals is that we carry all accessories to complete your roofing package. To go one step further- we keep all these items in stock.

When purchasing your Metal Roofing package coordination is a huge thing. At B&B we offer matching screws, rivets and even the sealant.

Metal Roofing Mistakes

1. Improper Flashing-Flashing is a transitional material to connect the metal roof to "non-roof" items such as skylights, chimneys and vents. Flashing seams should be properly sealed to allow water to flow on top of the roofing material and prevent moisture from creeping into crevices or under the metal roofing.
   
   
2. Wrong underlayment or Vapor barrier Material- Underlayment is considered the second line of defense against seepage if roofing material or flashing is compromised. To protect the underside of metal roofing panels, your roofing contractor should use underlayment with a smooth, non-granulated surface.
   
   
3. Damaged roof structure: The installer must check for dry rot and other signs of water damage on the roof deck before the metal roofing installation. Metal Expands and contracts. Without a solid base and proper installation, metal roofing will break loose or create gaps for moisture to seep in.
   
   
4. Uninsured roof- Metal roof panels can easily be installed over existing shingles. However, some insurance companies will not accept this method of installation, so check with your insurer before choosing this option. Also, solicit the help of a structural engineer or professional roof consultant to determine whether your building or home can handle extra weight.
   
   
5. Voiding the warranty- Be sure you and your roofing contractor read the manufacturer's instructions and install accordingly. Improper installation may void the warranty- which could cost you thousands in repair of replacement costs if something goes wrong.

Contact B&B Wholesale Metals today to help with the process!

Purlin Strips

If you've been debating about putting a Metal Roof on your home, you've probably come across putting Purlin Strips down first.

Even though it is not a requirement from the Building Department, it is a great way to save even more money on your heating and cooling cost.

Purlin Strips will add an additional 10% of savings, in addition to the savings that you will already be receiving from having a Metal Roof!

Even though using Purlin Strips will be an additional expense at the time of installation, you will see that it will pay for itself in no time.

The Strips provide the roof with an additional ventilation to allow the heat to escape from the attic space. 

The more heat that is released from the attic, the less your Air Conditioner has to work!

Especially in Florida, we all know that it gets extremely hot in your attic; you can now have a much cooler attic space allowing you to access the area all year round!