What qualities do you look for in a roof? Durability? Low maintenance? Good insulation? It’s for all these reasons that you should consider a standing seam metal roof. Whether you’re building a new house or planning a roof replacement, these roofs come with some great benefits. Keep on reading, and you’ll soon realize why the pros of standing seam metal roofing far outweigh the cons.
What Is a Standing Seam Metal Roof?
Standing seam metal roofs involve a unique attachment method. Conventional metal roof sheeting is attached by using large panel ridges and fasteners. Standing seam metal roofs lose the ridges altogether in favor of vertical metal roofing panels. In this process, experienced roofers install interlocking slots that attach to form a concealed watertight seal. The standing seam approach creates a unique look and feel to your roof.
Standing Seam Metal Roofing: The Pros
Starting to warm up to the idea of a standing seam metal roof? Here’s how this roofing type will benefit your home or business in South Florida.
No Exposed Fasteners
A standing seam metal roof provides you with that clean, minimalistic roofing aesthetic. Ever notice those bolts that hold down metal roofing sheets? None of these are needed with a standing seam. It’s no wonder that this roofing system is growing in popularity amongst architectural designers. And no fastener heads mean no small holes in your roofing sheets. Your new roof will only consist of metal sheeting and vertical interlocking panels. Nice and simple.
Low Maintenance
South Florida’s humid, subtropical summers can give your roofing a beating. On conventional metal roofs, fasteners are particularly vulnerable to weathering. The combination of sun, wind, and rain can corrode these fasteners over time causing water leaks. Standing seam metal roofing doesn’t have any fasteners. This means no fastener maintenance or replacement because there’s nothing to replace. And the best part, no unplanned drives to Broward Bolt Inc or The Home Depot.
Pro Tip: Do you have a metal roof with fasteners? To prevent corrosion and water leaks, it’s best to get in a roofer to routinely check your metal roof. They will replace any rusting fasteners and check for any waterproofing threats.
Allowance For Thermal Movement
Did you know that excessive heat can cause your roof materials to expand? This means that your roof panels may experience a small amount of movement over time. Roof fasteners work against this natural expansion and contraction by preventing natural movement. This can weaken your roof. The good news is that standing seam roofs aren’t fastened, which allows them to expand and contract. They’re also painted with a PVDF paint system. This resin-based coating allows increased weather protection for your roof.
Tested To A High Standard
Worried about the integrity of a standing seam metal roof? These systems are stringently tested to high industry standards. These tests include wind uplift, water penetration, air leakage, fire, and impact resistance. This should give you peace of mind during that South Florida hurricane season.
Pro Tip: When it comes to finding a roofing contractor, make sure you find one that has been tried and tested. Check what certification and memberships they carry. For example, check if they’re a member of the Roofing Contractors Association of South Florida. This will prevent frustrations down the line.
Standing Seam Metal Roofing: The Cons
As with all roofing types, standing seam metal roofing also comes with a few disadvantages.
Not As Budget Friendly
Standing seam metal roofing can be more expensive than other metal roofing types. This is because the metal sheets can be thicker, which adds up in price. The Interlocking technology and longer install time also add to the price. Keep in mind that standing seam roofing is still cheaper than metal shingles.
Intensive Installation Process
An aesthetically pleasing roof often requires a more labor-intensive installation. Your professional roofer will be able to make you aware of this process. Keep in mind that a standing seam roof does involve a few installation steps. These include:
- Making up the metal panels on site.
- Spacing the clip on the panel legs correctly.
- Aligning the panels perfectly.
- Making the required slits in the metal.
Standing Seam Metal Roofing in South Florida
A metal roof is a great choice for South Florida’s hot and humid climate. Metal doesn’t degrade easily and continually reflects heat away from your roof. At ABC Roofing Corp, we are the standing seam metal roofing experts. We pride ourselves on aesthetically pleasing residential and commercial roofing installations. With a 30-year track record of expert service, we have the Broward and Palm Beach counties covered. Whatever your roofing needs, we offer a full maintenance and repair service for all your mainstream roofing types. Call us at 954-344-4622 for that seamless roofing service you deserve.
