A Guide to Choosing the Ideal Roof Metal Sheets for Roofing
Metal roofs are widely used for both residential and commercial buildings around the UK owing to their durability, longevity, easy maintenance, eco-friendliness, and lightweight nature. They can be painted in versatile ways to complement the primary structure as well. However, choosing appropriate roof metal sheets can seem like a daunting process as there are multiple options available in terms of material and design. Plus, you need to make sure your choice is aesthetic, functional, as well as cost-effective.
So, let’s take a close look at the different types of metal roofing sheets, the materials you can consider, and the factors to keep in mind before taking the final decision.
Types of Roof Metal Sheets
Metal roof sheets are usually categorised into the following types:
- Corrugated: Boasting a conventional rippled look, corrugated metal roofing sheets are extremely sturdy and visually appealing as well. They can withstand extreme climatic conditions.
- Standing Seam: Metal roof sheeting of this kind features continuous panels that run from the roof’s ridge up to the eaves. The inter-panel seams are above the roofing level, which not only lends a trendy appearance to the building but also prevents moisture from seeping into the structure.
- Tile: If you are looking for an aesthetic option for a Spanish or Southwestern style home, consider metal tile roofing. It mimics concrete or clay tiles but are more long-lasting and lighter in weight.
- Shingle: While it closely resembles a roof composed of traditional shingles, metal shingle roofing is way more durable. They come in a wide array of finishes and textures too, which makes it easy for you to take a pick for any type of structure.
- Ribbed: If your region receives heavy snowfall or rainfall, go for ribbed roof metal sheets. These come with high ridges and can stand strong against inclement weather conditions.
- Vertical Panel: As the name suggests, in this type of metal roof sheeting, panels run vertically across the roof. If you are partial to an industrial or simple and clean look, these sheets are your best bet.
- Batten Seam: This form of metal roofing is known for its good looks and robustness. Raised battens are used to secure metal panels for a batten seam roof.
Material Options for Metal Roof Sheets
- Aluminium: A metal found in abundance, aluminium makes for sheets that are lightweight, easy to install, resistant to rust and corrosion, and energy-efficient. They can be tweaked into different styles and even recycled. However, aluminium metal roofing sheets price can be a little higher than others due to their anti-corrosion property. They need to be coated and treated for durability.
- Copper: Copper sheets are visually appealing, lightweight, and can last decades if maintained well. They can be shaped in different ways and the metal can be soldered to build watertight seals across the roof. However, copper is prone to contraction and expansion, becomes discoloured over time (patina formation), and is expensive.
- Zinc: Metal roofing sheets made of zinc make for attractive and long-lasting designs. They can be tweaked in different ways and help you save energy as well. Zinc, like copper, develops a protective patina that keeps corrosion at bay, which means the metal is a great option for coastal areas (air with high moisture or salt content). Zinc sheets are also resistant to UV rays. However, such metal roofing sheets price can be high and you need to maintain them well.
Things to Consider Before Choosing Roof Metal Sheets
Now that you have an idea about the types of metal roofs and the widely used materials, keep the following considerations in mind before taking the final call:
- Weather: This is one of the first things to factor in when shopping for metal sheets. If your region experiences high winds, heavy snowfall, or torrential rains, going for ribbed or corrugated metal roofing sheets is advisable. They are strong, durable, and will protect the main structure of your home and office against nature’s rage.
- Long-Term Plan: If you intend to live in a property or invest in it for a long time to come, go with zinc or copper metal roofs as they are highly durable, resilient, and require little maintenance. If you are in it for the short haul or don’t want to spend as much money, rubber flat roofs can do the trick too. These can last for years in areas that don’t experience extreme weather or high winds.
- Budget: If you are considering buying metal roof sheets, your budget anyway needs to be a little higher than in case of rubber, asphalt, or fiberglass. However, you can save a substantial amount on replacement, maintenance, and roofing repairs in London, with metal roofs. As they are highly energy-efficient, you get to reduce utility bills significantly as well. Whether you want the roof to stay strong for decades or hope to replace it in a few years, ask the roofer about how many satchels for sheet metal roof will be required. The tougher it is to tear down a metal roof, the costlier it will be.
- Building’s Architecture: For a traditional building with a Spanish or Mediterranean architectural style, metal tile roofing can enhance the aesthetics in the best way possible. On the other hand, if the building is minimalistic, modern, or industrial chic, a standing seam metal roof will be a better and more cohesive choice.
Conclusion
Now that you have an understanding about the different types and materials of metal roofs as well as the factors to consider before making a purchase, consult a reputed and experienced roofing company in London to start with your project. Do your own research and compare multiple brands before going with one. Or to keep it simple and for peace of mind, discuss your unique requirements with the experts at FastRoofing and decide on the type of roof metal sheets that will be most apt for you. Whether it’s a new installation or replacement, the roofers at FastRoofing can handle it all in a professional, safe, and cost-effective manner, so you are happy with the results for many decades to come. Get in touch today to find solutions to your roofing needs.