Toronto roofing contractors & metal roofing installations by London Eco Roof

3 Common Problems that Affect Your Metal Roof

Homeowners enjoy the durability and strength of a metal roofing. Why? There different types of metal roofs protect the home for a half century or more with little maintenance. Stylish and sustainable, these roofs are rapidly gaining popularity with new homeowners. However, just like any component of your home, watching for key issues and proper maintenance allows your roof to last for decades.

Oil Canning

What is oil canner? No matter the types of metal roofs, they are all susceptible to oil canning, or visible waviness in the panels. You may also hear the terms “buckling” or “stress wrinkling”. This can be caused by extreme pressure or stress on the standing seam or improper usage and handling by installers. The best way to avoid oil canning is by hiring an experienced quality contractor. They will follow the industry standard installation to the highest level. Choosing a thicker metal, rib profile, or tension-level metal are other ways to avoid oil canning. Speak with our professional contractors today about how to avoid oil canning in your roof.

Leaking

Most traditional asphalt tile roofs have issues with leaking but even galvanized steel roofs can suffer from leaks due to extreme conditions like heavy snow, driving rain, high winds, and structural damage. Installer errors can lead to failed fasteners, seams, flashing, and sealants. Once again, a quality initial installation reduces the cost and damage of leaking. Having your roof inspected at least biannually for potential leaks. More often if you live in an area susceptible to extreme weather conditions.

Corrosion

Homeowners with metal roofing often never have to replace their roof again. These roofs do not corrode or degrade easily. Houses in coastal environments may suffer some corrosion due to saltwater. Aluminum and zinc work better in these regions. Underside corrosion happens when the metal does not have a proper coat. Discuss better paint systems with your contractor to reduce corrosion. A properly maintained roof will last for a lifetime.

Do Metal Roofs Need Regular Maintenance?

Savvy homeowners today choose metal roofs because of their durability, sustainability, and overall versatile aesthetic look. Their value and fifty plus year guarantee bring additional value when factoring in initial steel roofing prices and installation. A metal roof adds to the value of any home. What maintenance is required for metal roofing?

Quality Installation

The overall maintenance of a metal roof depends on the quality of the initial installation. The steel roofing prices initial cost from a professional contractor includes installation and materials. In many cases, a metal roof can be installed over an older roof. However, if you want to guarantee a quality low-maintenance roof for a lifetime, the quality of the initial installation needs to professional. Why? Experienced professional installers will spend the extra time needed to ensure that each component is properly installed. They will find ways to minimize any additional damage, find weak areas in your roof, and ensure that each section of your roof is installed to the highest standards possible.

Common Issues

Regular professional maintenance once a year or even by an experienced homeowner can identify the most common problems. Among these problems are leaking, dents and scratches, degrading, and galvanized corrosion. A professional service will identify key areas that need replacement or repair before the problem becomes costly.

Cleaning the Surface

While this is mostly an aesthetic issue, be sure that you keep the metal roof clean. Keep it clean of debris and dirt to maintain a clean new look for decades to come. Keep gutters and drains clear to avoid water accumulation, which can lead to damage long-term.

Structural Maintenance

If you live in a climate with extremities in weather like high winds, snowstorms, hurricanes, hail, extreme heat or cold, and frequent temperature fluctuations, having a professional inspect your roof for structural issues will minimize any damage. In most cases, there should not be any structural issues. However, if there is a large hail storm or your home has been through some especially inclement weather, then an inspection can help address any damage immediately. Follow these steps to enjoy your metal roof for decades to come.

How much will your roof REALLY cost?

How much does installing a new roof cost? Take into account various costs like the metal roofing price per sheet or whether you are installing over an older roof. Let’s find out more about some of the key costs of installing a metal roof.

Metal Roof Pricing

The general cost of metal roofing has several key factors. The materials you choose will determine the cost, for example, the metal roofing price per sheet of galvanized. Take into account other pricing like labor and whether you need to remove an older roof. Metal roofs can often be placed on top of an older roof, saving considerably on costs.

Metal roofs can last for half a century or more, which means that this will most likely be the only roof that you will ever have to install. Compared to traditional asphalt roofing, metal roofing is relatively low maintenance and withstand harsh environments. While the cost of a metal roof can be around sixteen thousand dollars, taking into account the longevity and durability should be kept in mind.

Materials

Different types of metal roofing have different costs. There are also options like installing metal shakes, tiles, or shingles. Your roofing contractor can help you find the look and style that is right for your home. Copper roofing is the most luxurious of the options and is often reserved for accents or high-end homes. Most homeowners opt for options like aluminum or galvanized steel, which is the most affordable option.

Warranty

What other costs do you need to consider? Check with your metal roofing contractor about the included warranty. The roof warranty is worth the extra costs in the long-term.

Finding a Roof Contractor

Ask for an estimate when you speak with your roofing contractor. Review their experience and see if you can speak to former customers. Look at their work on other homes. Check their certifications and license according to your region’s requirements. Don’t forget to review any building permits you might need. Call us today for an estimate for your roofing needs.

New Homeowners Essential Guide to Roofs

Every homeowner knows that a new roof has substantial costs. Doing extensive research on metal roofing installation can save you thousands. Understand the process and the different types of metal roofing available to you. Make the right decision for your house.

Metal Roofing

What options do you have to choose from? If you are looking for a roof that will last a lifetime, is durable, and flame-resistant, look into metal roofing installation. Metal roofing is an energy-efficient option for savvy homeowners. Newer metal roof options include shingles, tiling, and shakes that look just like traditional asphalt roofing. Installing a metal roof costs more initially than a traditional asphalt roof, but you will not have to replace a roof again for over fifty years. Speak with a professional contractor about your metal roofing options.

Metal roofs come with many options, and in any color you can imagine. They can be sold in panels or tiles. The panels come up to twenty feet long, joined by standing seams. These prevent water damage. Besides the traditional standing seam option, a metal roof can also mimic slate and wood shakes.

The durability of metal roofs includes being both flame and rot resistant. In fact, a metal roof is an excellent option for areas with extreme weather like cold winters or strong winds. They last years longer than traditional asphalt shingles in similar environments.

A Green Option

Metal roofs are recyclable and often are made of recyclable materials. Their energy efficiency is maximized by choosing the correct color for the roof. Speak with your roofing contractor about the best options for your metal roof. Speak with your roofing installation specialist today about the benefits of installing a metal roof.

What is the best color for your roof?

Homeowners have many options to consider when selecting the right color for their roof. With metal roofing, choosing the right color can make a difference in energy efficiency, costs, and overall savings. Additionally, homeowners want a color that augments the overall aesthetic feel and curb appeal of their home. There are many choices to consider when selecting the correct color and style for your roof. What are the best options for your home?

Energy Efficiency and Savings

Your choice of roof color plays a surprisingly large role in overall energy efficiency and savings. Be sure to research the different quality of paint. For example, high-end Kynar 500 white for metal roofing is Energy Star approved and considered a “Cool” roof. It will be significantly cooler than traditional black asphalt shingles, making it absolutely ideal for tropical warm climates.

What if you live in a cooler climate? Choose a darker color like black, dark grays, dark browns, and even deep greens. The darker colors absorb the heat. The extra heat transfers to any of the rooms in the home directly under the roof. This reduces heating costs considerably. If you are concerned about extra heat during the summer, opt for a more neutral color like a green, blue, or lighter gray.

Snow Melt

Dark roofs absorb excess heat, which means that they are ideal for snowy regions. The heat of the metal roofs will melt the snow. This means that dark roofs remain popular in northern regions. Be sure that you have good attic insulation and good roof ventilation to further enhance the benefits of a dark roof.

Paint Quality

Finally, take into consideration the quality of the paint that you choose. A high-quality paint can meet your energy efficiency standards regardless of the color or climate. The paint should be treated for ultraviolet sun exposure, otherwise fading and wear can result. Some sealants will further protect the home from unwanted mildew and moisture. Some quality brands are Hylar 5000, Kynar 500, or Energy Star brands. Choose the right color for your home. Be sure that it is both energy efficient and is a color that you love.

Is It Cheaper to get a Metal Roof or Shingles?

Choosing the right roof for your home can be a complicated process for homeowners. What option is best long-term? What are the up-front installation costs and how often should a roof be repaired? These are all important questions that should be answered, especially when deciding between a metal roof or more traditional shingles. What are the benefits and challenges of roofing?

Adding Value to Your Home

Contemporary homeowners who want energy efficiency, durability, and longevity choose metal roofing for a variety of reasons. Although upfront installation costs are more than traditional asphalt shingles, a metal roof will last half a century with the proper installation. On the other hand, asphalt roofing and shingles are susceptible to weathering and wear. Shingle roofs often have to be replaced every decade, more if a natural disaster strikes. Metal roofing returns the investment on your home, increasing the resale value by around five percent or more.

Versatility

Whether you want your home to have shingles, a standing seam roof, or another popular option, both shingles and metal roofs have versatility in overall style and design. Contemporary metal roofing technology imitates traditional finishes, meaning that you can install a metal roof that looks like tile, slate, shake, and shingles. They come in nearly every color and finish that you can imagine. Your home can have the energy efficiency and durability of metal roofing while fitting right in with other roofs in your neighborhood.

Energy Efficiency

There is no denying that energy efficiency is a prime concern for today’s homeowners. Energy efficiency not only helps the environment, it reduces your heating and cooling costs. A standing seam metal roof allows for solar panels without damage to the roof, unlike asphalt shingles. Metal roofs are very durable. The key is to have high-quality professional installation. The costs can be considerable if you live in expensive regions where labor costs are higher. However, it is important that your roof is installed properly to achieve the highest level of savings and longevity.

Safety

Finally, if you are in a region that is prone to severe weather like hurricanes, heavy snow, hail, or high winds, metal roofing is the safer option for your home. The metal withstands violent weather conditions while protecting you and your family.

Metal Roofing: Expectations vs. Reality

When choosing roofing options, homeowners should consider metal roofing. But why? Is it the durability and sustainability of metal roofing that attracts savvy homeowners? Is it a relatively simple metal roof installation? What makes metal roofing such an attractive option? And what are some of the challenges of choosing metal for your home?

Fifty Year of Durability

Perhaps the number one reason that homeowners choose metal roofing is its long-lasting proven durability. Expect over a half-century to pass before you need to replace a metal roof. These roofs are fire resistant, have maximum wind resistance, and preserve their overall structural integrity. Yes, the ease of metal roof installation is a great reason to choose this type of roof, but imagine never having to purchase another roof again in your lifetime. That is a reality for happy homeowners who opt for metal roofing.

Energy Efficient and Eco-Friendly

Metal roofs are energy efficient. Their unique insulation maintains the temperature in your home. This means that you will save in overall energy costs in your home. Additionally, most metal roofs and shingles are made of recyclable materials. They can also be recycled. Easy metal roof installation over older roofing means that you can save substantially in costs and materials.

Drawbacks

What are some of the realistic drawbacks of metal roofing? While most roofing will be able to withstand extreme weather conditions, strong hail could cause dents in the roof that would need to be repaired. If you opt for shingles, this might be as simple as replacing the damaged shingles. The sun can cause paint to fade. Be sure to ask for a special coating that will protect your roof from UV rays.

Beautiful Design and Color

Enjoy hundreds of design options, colors, and shingle types. Speak with a metal roofing professional about the many options available. They will help you find the perfect aesthetic that matches your unique style and taste. Choose from different shingle styles and various metals. Enjoy the beauty of quality metal roofing for decades to come.

What Type of Wall Insulation is Right for My Home?

Choosing the right insulation for your home is an important decision for any homeowner or business owner. Should you choose fiberglass batts and blankets, metal panels, eco-friendly options, cotton wall insulation, spray foam, or any other of over dozens of different options? What are the benefits of each particular type?

Metal is Excellent for Roofing and Walls

One of the wall insulation and roofing options that are gaining popularity for their sustainability and durability are metal panels. These are lightweight modular products. They are an excellent option for both walls and for roofing. They can provide much-needed weatherproofing, protection from the elements, and extra insulation. Metal panels come in a wide variety of materials for both walls and roofs. A metal roof can last for decades.

Metal is ideal for any type of structure, from homes to commercial buildings. It is especially effective for buildings that might need temperature controlled environments like research facilities, manufacturing plants, and food processing. Extra layers are added for extra insulation. Metal is also attractive affordable options for homes. Architectural buildings also benefit from the wide array of colors, metals, and customizability of metal.

Spray Foams

Spray foams have a relatively high R-value, providing a needed air barrier. Open-Cell Polyurethane Spray Foam does allow some water to pass through. These require professional installation for roofing, walls, floors, and large projects. This is a good do-it-yourself option for small jobs. However, be aware that the foam releases dangerous chemicals and VOCs that will be harmful to anyone with asthma and other health conditions. Speak with a professional about any concerns during installation. The usual recommendation is three or four days before entering the home again.

Batts and Blankets

Homeowners can purchase batts and blankets from a variety of materials at the local hardware retailer for insulation. These are often sold in large roles. Rockwool and cotton don’t itch as much as fiberglass. Most kinds include carcinogens and chemicals. Be sure to wear the correct protective gear when installing insulation yourself. Speak with a professional today about the best products to use for your home.

Why the Future of Roofing Depends on Sustainability

Looking at sustainability benefits when constructing a home is increasingly becoming popular with today’s discerning homeowner. Some roof design, like metal roofing, are more sustainable than other forms of roofing like asphalt or wood. Why is the future of roofing rooted in long-term sustainability and eco-friendly options? And what are some popular roofing options for eco-conscious homeowners? Let’s find out.

Being Eco-Friendly

Consumers have made their charge. They want to build affordable homes that are eco-friendly and sustainable. They want to renovate older homes in new ways that are good for both their pocketbooks and the planet. Because of this, several new roof design options like metal roofing have grown in popularity. There are several reasons why this type of roofing is eco-friendly – it has significant energy saving costs and minimal upkeep with impressive longevity. Metal roofs are often made of recyclable materials and can be recycled.

The Benefits of Energy Efficiency

Homeowners are not just looking at aesthetics when they choose a roof. They are looking for long-term benefits like energy efficiency. A metal roof can save owners up to forty percent in energy costs. With higher solar reflectivity and emissivity, the “cool” metal roof reduces heat in the home. Impressively, pre-painted metal keeps nearly 100 percent of its reflexivity, especially when painted with a color like white or light-colored metal. This is much better than any asphalt roof.

A Roof for a Lifetime

The biggest benefit to sustainable roofing options like the metal roof is longevity. Because the metal roof is so durable, often it will last for decades without replacement. It has a much longer service life than options like asphalt roofs that must be replaced every fifteen years. Proper maintenance can prevent damage to the roof, although metal roofing withstands extreme weather conditions very well.

As the public continues to increase the demand for eco-friendly homes, sustainable roofing will continue to play a very important role.

Calculating Roof Replacement Cost

Over time, most roofs will need to be replaced. Whether you opt for a metal roof or other roofing options, every homeowner needs to know the basics of replacing a roof. When determining the roof replacement cost of your home, it is important to consider several factors. Each factor places an important role in the end costs of construction.

Roof Size

A quality roof installed by a professional contractor will add value and security to your home, as well as basic curbside appeal. Homeowners planning to sell their homes in the near future often find that an upgraded roof is one of the first factors that potential buyers look at when purchasing a home. While there are many factors determining the roof replacement cost, the biggest factor is the overall size of the roof. Pitch and accessibility also play a role, but roofers charge per square. Expect to pay thousands of dollars for any major roof replacement.

Materials

Some roofing types can be installed over an older roof. And sometimes a homeowner only needs to replace part of the roof or only one roof (the garage roof might not need immediate replacement, for example). Asphalt roofing is often considered the least expensive roofing option. Other affordable options include metal and tile roofs. Slate roofs can be considerably more expensive than metal or asphalt roofs.

Labor

Sometimes additional water damage is discovered during construction. This can add to the overall cost of the roof replacement because it adds to overall labor costs. Remember that labor is often one of the biggest costs of any construction project, especially if you have a large team working on your site. Be sure to speak with your contractor about how they handle additional damage and labor costs. Other factors that can add to the cost are chimneys and skylights. Speak with a seasoned professional about the costs of your upcoming roof replacement.

Metal Roofing Blog