types-of-metal-roof.jpgOver the last several years, metal roofing has come a long way.

As a result, many Pittsburgh homeowners are choosing metal when it comes time to replace their roof.

One of the reasons why people are drawn to metal is aesthetics, but many homeowners are also drawn to the benefits of metal like durability, longevity and choice. Here are five type of metal roof materials you should consider for your home.

One: Galvalume Steel

Advantages to this type of metal are that it is resistant to corrosion, strong and cost-effective. A disadvantage of this material is its susceptibility to a process known as “tension bend staining,” which can occur when microscopic cracks in the coating occur at tight bends or folds in the roof. Over time, these cracks can cause rust and further deterioration. Galvalume steel is best suited for simple profiles, where there is less bending of the metal.

Two: Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel is also very strong and is the most common metal material used for roofing. It is budget-friendly and the zinc coating provides a barrier to help prevent rust. The lifespan of galvanized steel is not as long as other metal materials and depends largely on the thickness of the metallic coating. The most common level is G-90, or, .90 ounces of zinc. If you’re seriously considering a metal roof of galvanized steel, you don’t want to go with a lesser grade than G-90.

Three: Aluminum

Aluminum roofing systems have a lot of positives for residential applications.

They are lightweight, durable, corrosion resistant, and work well with almost any type of home. Because aluminum will never rust, it’s a great option for almost any environment – but especially in Pittsburgh given the region’s annual snow and rain accumulations. Aluminum metal roofs are also highly energy efficient.

What's amazing about aluminum roofing is its ability to be formed to look like other roofing materials. You can successfully recreate the look and feel of other roofing materials like shingles, shakes, slate tile and ceramic tile. You get the style with all of the benefits of metal roofing.

In the case of an older home this is an advantage. You can easily replace older, less effective roofing materials with high-quality aluminum roof without sacrificing the style.

Four: Copper

This option is beautiful and generally only used for accents in residential applications. The reason copper roofs may be used for accents instead of the whole roof is a higher price tag. A copper roof, while beautiful, can cause streaks on, or stain, other materials from water runoff. Designers and professionals can help you plan accordingly if you want any copper roofing systems for your home.

Five: Other Exotic Metals

There are many other types of metal roofs, but they are less common than the four discussed above. Those materials include rolled zinc, stainless steel, terne-coated steel, terne-coated stainless, and titanium. If you are interested in these niche materials, you would want to contact a metal roofing manufacturer to get more information to help you make the right choice for your home.

Metal roofing is growing in popularity and it’s an exciting time for the industry professionals and home-owners alike. With the variety of options to choose from, you and a designer can choose a strong and beautiful protective cover for your home that sticks to your budget. If you are ready to learn more from a Pittsburgh metal roofing expert, give the roofing team at Legacy Remodeling a call today.