4 factors that influence the lifespan of standing seam metal

By Chicago Metal Supply. 

Determining if standing seam metal is the right material for your next roofing project depends on a variety of factors, learn more about them. 

Standing seam metal roofing is a good option for your next project for a variety of reasons. Places such as Chicago Metal Supply offer top tier standing seam metal roofing material with a variety of customizable styles that allow you to achieve the perfect look for any project. But this material is more than just aesthetics, it has a lot of logistical benefits as well. This includes everything from durability to energy-efficiency to weather resistance. But these benefits can be influenced by a variety of things, from environmental factors to the manufacturing process. 

Standing seam metal roofing lifespan 

As was noted above, a standing seam metal roof’s lifespan can fluctuate based on several factors. That said, most standing seam metal roofs tends to last between 30 and 50 years. One thing to note here is that, if you want to get the absolute most out of your standing seam roof, you’ll need to provide it with regular maintenance. This includes cleaning and minor repairs. 

Factors that affect the lifespan of standing seam metal roofing 

You might be curious about the factors that affect the lifespan of standing seam metal roofing? They include (but aren’t limited to) the following: 

1 - Precipitation exposure 

Although standing seam metal roofing is designed to thrive through exposure to moisture, it’s not entirely resistant to it. Long-term moisture exposure can slowly but steadily cause damage, and it can eventually cause standing seam metal to rust. 

As such, the more precipitation that your roof is exposed to, the shorter its lifespan will be. If you’re in a part of the country where it rains or snows more than others, rust could start to appear on your standing seam metal roof between 25 and 30 years of age. If you’re in an area where it rarely rains, your standing seam metal roofing might never rust. 

2 - Sunlight exposure 

Not only can precipitation cause issues with standing seam metal roofing, but so too can sunlight. Now, sunlight isn’t going to hurt it structurally. But aesthetically, it can cause the color to fade over time. 

3 - Manufacturing quality 

Not all standing seam metal roofing materials are created equal. Not only can the materials be made from different alloys of steel, but they sometimes have different manufacturing methods. As such, some brands of standing seam metal roofing are bound to last longer than others. 

How much difference can you expect? All things considered, it’s usually just a few years. Keep in mind, though, that the other factors we’ve discussed can create a great deal of fluctuation. 

4 - Installation quality 

One last factor that affects the lifespan of standing seam metal roofing is the quality of its installation. If it’s installed properly, it will suffer very little damage, allowing it to thrive for years to come. If it’s installed improperly, it can take on a substantial amount of damage, leading to a significantly reduced lifespan. 

For this reason, when installing standing seam metal roofing, it’s important to work with a seasoned installer. But regardless of your installer, having a great standing seam metal roof starts with having a quality product that’s made from quality materials — and that’s where Chicago Metal Supply can help. 

Original article source: Chicago Metal Supply