Metal roofing stands out as a top choice for homeowners and commercial property owners alike. Its durability, energy efficiency, and timeless appeal have made it a popular option. But beyond the practical benefits, there are some fascinating facts about metal roofing that you might not know.
In this article, we will look at the most intriguing and fun facts about metal roofing, as shared by the roofing expert James Kenton.
1. Dates Back to World War II
The origins of modern metal roofing can be traced back to World War II. During this time, the Decraspray Company in wartime England developed an innovative emulsion coating made from road tar and stone chips. The primary purpose was to hide the reflective metal roofs of vital structures and safeguard them from German air strikes.
Interestingly, after the war had ended, it was discovered that this stone coating had adhered so firmly to the underlying metal roofs that it proved virtually impossible to remove. These stone-coated metal roofs had not only served their wartime purpose but had also demonstrated an unexpected level of durability and resilience. Recognizing this incredible potential, Decraspray realized it could pioneer a new era of durable roofing products.
Following World War II, the original formula underwent further enhancements. An advanced acrylic base was incorporated, setting a new gold standard for durability and longevity in the roofing industry. This evolution marked the beginning of modern metal roofing as we know it today, combining the wartime necessity for camouflage with the enduring qualities of metal and advanced coatings.
2. Lightweight Marvel
While metal may seem heavy, metal roofing is surprisingly lightweight. This characteristic makes it an excellent choice for both new construction and retrofitting projects. Its lightness reduces the stress on a building’s structure and foundation, making it particularly beneficial for older structures that may not have been originally designed to support the weight of traditional roofing materials.
Additionally, the reduced load on the building’s structure can result in cost savings and improved structural integrity, enhancing the property’s overall value.
3. Energy Efficiency
If you’ve ever experienced the scorching heat of asphalt on a summer day, you’re familiar with its heat-absorbing properties. This phenomenon extends to the asphalt shingles that often grace the roofs of homes and commercial buildings. These shingles absorb and trap heat, resulting in elevated temperatures within your property. In contrast, metal roofing offers a cooling advantage by minimizing heat absorption during the hot summer months.
Metal roofing is inherently reflective, deflecting the sun’s rays away from your structure. Moreover, special coatings can be applied to enhance this reflective capability. Studies have demonstrated that metal roofing effectively redirects solar radiant heat, leading to potential reductions in cooling expenses of up to 25% in certain cases.
4. Diverse Material Options
Metal roofing offers an extensive range of material choices, including steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc. Each material boasts distinct attributes such as exceptional durability, resistance to corrosion, and aesthetic allure.
This wide variety of options empowers homeowners to handpick the ideal metal roofing material that aligns seamlessly with their specific needs and stylistic preferences, enabling them to create a roofing solution that’s not only functional but also visually captivating.
5. Impressive Longevity
The sterling reputation of metal roofing rests significantly upon its exceptional durability and remarkable longevity. In fact, some metal roofs can endure for over 50 years with minimal maintenance, exemplifying their enduring value.
Its remarkable lifespan translates into significant long-term cost savings, as it negates the frequent need for roof replacements and demonstrates metal roofing’s remarkable cost-effectiveness.
6. Recyclability
Beyond its initial sustainable qualities, metal roofing stands as one of the most eco-conscious roofing selections. Crafted from recyclable materials, metal roofs contribute to the reduction of waste and the conservation of precious resources.
Furthermore, at the culmination of its lifespan, metal roofing can be fully recycled, highlighting its environmentally sustainable characteristics.
7. Resistant to Weathering
Metal roofing showcases an innate resilience against diverse weathering forces, including rain, snow, hail, and relentless winds.
Unlike conventional roofing materials like wood or asphalt shingles, metal roofing materials are impervious to rot, warping, or cracking, ensuring that they consistently retain their structural integrity and aesthetic appeal over time.
8. Fire Resistance
Metal roofing’s inherent fire-resistant properties provide an additional layer of safeguarding for your property. While wood shingles are susceptible to combustion, metal roofs offer peace of mind, especially in regions prone to wildfires, by acting as a formidable barrier against fire hazards.
9. Aesthetic Versatility
Metal roofing provides an expansive spectrum of styles and finishes, granting homeowners the creative freedom to bring their architectural and aesthetic visions to life.
Whether you prefer traditional, contemporary, or somewhere in between, metal roofing offers an abundance of design options to perfectly complement your preferences and elevate the visual appeal of your property.
10. Low Maintenance
Maintaining a metal roof is a relatively straightforward and cost-effective endeavor. Routine inspections and occasional cleaning sessions suffice to keep the roof in peak condition.
Unlike some alternative roofing materials, metal roofs necessitate minimal repairs and recoating, translating into long-term convenience for homeowners.
11. Lower Insurance Costs
Metal roofing’s exceptional durability and resistance to weather-related damage can lead to another substantial benefit: reduced insurance costs. Recognizing the lower risk of claims related to weather events, some insurance companies offer reduced premiums for properties protected by metal roofs.
This not only provides immediate financial relief but also translates into long-term cost savings, making metal roofing an even more attractive choice for homeowners seeking both resilience and economic benefits.
If you’re considering the benefits of a metal roof for your house, whether it’s for a new construction or a replacement, it’s essential to consult with a trusted expert like James Kenton. With his expertise and dedication to delivering top-notch roofing solutions, you can be confident that your metal roofing project will be handled with the utmost care and precision, ensuring a durable and beautiful addition to your home that will stand the test of time. Contact James Kenton Tennessee today to explore the possibilities of metal roofing for your property.