5 Common Misconceptions with Metal Roofing Introduction

Learn more about those metal roofing misconceptions and download the free e-book.

By Stealthbond

Truth be told, metal roofs eclipse conventional roofing materials – slate, wood, asphalt, etc. – for a variety of reasons. Their longevity, lightweight variety, fire resistance, ability to conduct heat (helping you save energy needed for A/C), and minimal roof pitch to combat leaking are only a handful of the intrinsic benefits that come along with metal roofs.

That being said, even the most durable, eco-friendly roof on the market can develop common misconceptions causing a variety of misinformation to be spread about metal roofing and its installation. It is important for a contractor and even a homeowner to understand these common misconceptions and educate themselves on why.

Roof Leaks & Blow-offs Roof leaks are associated with just about any type of roofing material you choose to put on your home. However, with metal roofing, the leaks are very rarely associated with the material itself (water cannot penetrate metal) and rather with its improper installation. Leaks are a result of careless craftsmanship and can easily be avoided with the right team working on your roof. Leaks occur when the roofing material, in this case metal, has been penetrated or compromised.

Traditionally, metal roofing is attached with screws and the screws going through the metal roofing must be installed just right. These penetrations are created during the installation process and if not secured just right could make your home susceptible to leaks. If you do happen to notice a leak, it is crucial to address it right away. Leaks only grow over time, so if you choose to ignore the issue until the next rainstorm, odds are the leaks will increase causing other damage to your home i.e. mold etc.

Blow-offs can also be a cause for concern with metal roofs. They happen when flashing is poorly attached causing there to be open seams and laps, which might allow for parts of the roof to blow off. Again, installation is key with metal roofing. You wouldn’t hire a plumber to install your roof because they are not experienced in that field. Experience is necessary for your roof installation and for you to experience all of the benefits of metal roofing. The easiest way to avoid this from ever happening is to hire an experienced professional who uses Miami-Dade Building Code Approve Products. Learn more about Miami-Dade County Building codes at http://www.miamidade.gov/building/.

Noise The most common misconception is that metal roofing is noisy when it rains. Again, this assumption is made by those who do not understand proper installation of metal roofing. When properly installed specific installation processes are in place – such as sound-deafening insulation and solid plywood sheathing – to ensure that the rain drums don’t keep you up all night. With proper installation of your metal roof, these structural barriers will help reduce the loud noises on your roof.

Denting, Punctures, & Tears Poor workmanship can result in unwanted dents, punctures, and tears on your metal roof. In general, more people walking on your roof will in turn lead to more issues. They can occur when your roof is initially being installed or during a standard maintenance check. While walking on your roof, some contractors may not notice the trail of punctures and tears that they are leaving as they work. To avoid these nuisances, try to limit the amount of foot traffic and be sure to hire experienced and trained professionals who can address these problems right when they occur. Keep in mind that a metal roof can also dent due to natural causes. If a large hailstone drops on your roof, there is a chance that the heavy force will cause a dent. If you suspect this problem with your metal roof, always give your trusted contractor a call rather than try to walk on your roof and solve the problem yourself – and cause more dents in the process!

Time & Cost And like most high-quality products, they require great care. Thus, the installation process with metal roofs tends to take longer than other roofing materials. Moreover, they are typically more expensive than other roofing materials. That being said, if you plan on staying in your home for a long time, the time and cost investment will most definitely be worth it. If you plan to move only after a couple of years there are still benefits for you as a metal roof increases the value of your home. If installed correctly and carefully, the wait and initial cost will be worth your time.

Choose Your Installation Method The metal roofing industry is always changing and sometimes homeowners don’t realize all the options they have when it comes to installation. Many just take their contractors word for it, however, when homeowners do their homework, they will realize they have a choice in the installation method.

Traditional metal roof installation requires thousands of screws to fasten the roofing panels to the decking. Thousands of screws mean thousands of penetrations in the metal panels, which can cause unsightly oil-canning or dimpling of the panels. When this occurs, those screw fasteners can back out of the panels, which in turn leaves a hole in the roof.

Another method for the choosing is to avoid the screw fastened technique that is flawed and request StealhBond©. StealthBond© provides contractors the tools to install its metal roof without all the screws, thus eliminating the problems of unwelcomed holes in the roof. Known as the StealthBond Advantage©, the roofs that once had to be screwed down can now be installed as Concealed Adhesive System. You can now say goodbye to screw holes and oil canning.

Fortunately, all of these problems can easily be solved with the proper installer. Low-quality craftsmanship, which tends to be on the cheaper side, will only dig deeper into your pocket and cause headaches over time. A proper installation of your metal roof will ensure that you get the most out of it over the years.

Learn More Ready to learn more about the StealthBond© advantage? Click here to download the ebook.