Whether you want a complete metal roof system or just a metal roof over your screened-in porch, you’ll need to choose a metal type. The truth is that there is no such thing as an incorrect answer.
You must choose a metal that is appropriate for your scenario, the aesthetic you desire, and your budget. While there are many options available, there are three that we see more frequently in residential roofing.
At Castle Builders And Roofing, LLC, we strive to empower every homeowner to make the best decisions possible for themselves and their roof. That’s why we’re going to go through the many types of metal that are commonly utilized in residential roofing.
Steel is the most prevalent metal used for residential roofing (both accents and whole roof systems). Standing seam metal roof panels are made of 24 or 26 gauge steel. Steel panels are gauged according to their thickness; the greater the number, the thinner the panel. Oil canning is more likely with 26 gauge steel metal roof panels since they are thinner.
That’s why the most typical standing seam metal roof is made of 24 gauge steel and coated with Kynar 500. Although this painted finish can be applied to both gauges of steel, some roofing contractors save money by providing homeowners with 26 gauge steel that isn’t coated with Kynar 500 and instead uses a different type of paint.
You won’t obtain the lifetime you want from a standing seam metal roof if it doesn’t have the Kynar 500 painted finish. Steel metal roofing in both gauges is used for residential applications, but keep in mind that oil canning is an issue with 26 gauge steel.
The most crucial component is that the metal roof panels have the Kynar 500 painted finish, regardless of the type of steel utilized.
Copper is another popular metal roofing material for homes. Copper is measured in ounces rather than gauges like steel (16, 20, 30, 60, 90).
The most prevalent type of copper used in residential roofing is 16-ounce copper. Copper can be used to cover an entire standing seam metal roof system, but it can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. As a result, copper is increasingly employed as an accent on luxury shingles, slate roofs, and cedar shake roofs. It’s perfect for roof flashing, chimney caps, covered porches, and bay windows, among other things.
While copper is an excellent roof improvement, it is also a long-lasting roofing material. You won’t have to worry about it once it’s put on your roof.
Stainless steel is another alternative for residential metal roofing, however it is less prevalent. Stainless steel, like steel, is measured in gauges.
It will have the same appearance as galvanized metal, but it will not rust (depending on the temperature in your area). As a result, the metal roof panels will not be painted with Kynar 500 or any other form of paint finish. Stainless steel, like copper, is a long-lasting roofing material. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is a tougher substance than copper and 24 gauge steel.
Hail storms or other dents to the metal roof panels are less likely to cause damage. While a complete stainless steel metal roof system is available, it will be more expensive than copper.
For accent purposes, such as copper, I recommend stainless steel. However, in the end, it is up to you and your budget.