Toronto roofing contractors & metal roofing installations by London Eco Roof

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.

What is a Standing Seam Metal Roof?

Consider a standing seam metal roof as an energy efficient and attractive option for your home. In the past only traditional roofing materials like cedar shingles or asphalt were available. Now recycled metal roofing is a viable option for many homeowners. It is a durable and long-lasting roof that can last for as long as half a century. While there are many options for metal roofing, the standing seam design remains very popular in both commercial and residential construction.

The Basics

Unlike shingles, the standing seam metal roof has the seams higher than a traditional roof. It is above the level of the roofing. Seams are the weakest place on any roof. Having it higher, instead of being flush-mounted, is a saver option. This gives the type of roof its name – standing. This reduces damage and deterioration due to moisture over the life of the roof. Additionally, there are fewer seams. Homeowners can select almost any color for their roofs.

Components

There are several key components in a standing seam. Hidden seam fasteners connect the panels. Steel or aluminum panels make up the main part of the roof. Pre-formed panels are manufactured in a factory. Those that are considered “site-formed” are made from rolls of metal. The contractors will run the rolls through forming machines. The job of these machines is to essentially cut the individual metal panels that will make up the roof.

Durability

Unlike asphalt roofing, metal roofing is a very durable and long-lasting material. It is energy-efficient and can handle the elements. However, watch for dents caused by inclement weather like hailstorms. Metal roofing also protects against fire in many instances.

Cost

While a metal roof does cost more than traditional asphalt roofing, there are many benefits including long-lasting durability and additional safety from fire. Consider the costs of regular repairs and maintenance for asphalt roofing versus the minimal maintenance costs of metal roofing. Enjoy the benefits of having a metal roof for decades to come.

Is an Eco-Tile Roof Right for You?

When considering long-term options for your business or home, consider the benefits of Eco-Tile metal roofing. This popular industry solution has a number of distinct benefits over traditional roofing options that can save you time, maintenance, and costs over the course of the buildings lifetime.

Quick Installation

Eco-Tile roofing can be installed relatively quickly. This metal roofing solution is a modular sheet. This innovation means that you save money in installation costs and labor. The quick assembly also means less time for human error, ensuring that you will have the highest quality roof for decades to come. Assembly is simple and cost-effective. In fact, Eco-Tiles are ideal for the experienced do-it-yourself homeowner.

Additionally, homeowners do not have to worry about the costs and labor associated with removing the older damaged roofing. Instead, you can fit the Eco-Tiles directly on the older tiles. Save on labor costs significantly.

Energy Efficient

Besides being an overall cost-saving and time-saving roofing solution, Eco-Tiles can provide a lightweight option to maintain steady temperatures through sweltering summers and freezing winters. Add extra insulation for rooms that are more susceptible to extreme changes in weather.

Long Lasting

These tiles can last for almost half a century. While at the outset they may cost more than a traditional asphalt roof, building owners do not need to worry about replacing the roof several times over the course of their lifetime. Building owners do not need to worry about inclement weather and extreme weather conditions. However, there are some minor issues with dents that may occur during extreme hail storms. Speak with your contractor about purchasing thicker materials to prevent dents and natural wrinkling. This may be the only roof you will need to purchase during your entire life.

Versatile

Metal roofing is available in a wide variety of colors and styles. A wide variety of colors from red and browns to dark greens and even charcoal can be customized for every building owner’s unique tastes. Speak with your contractor about options for windows and other custom structures.

Enjoy the versatility, durability, and beauty of Eco-Tile roofing. It is the ideal roofing solution for any commercial or residential building.

What You Didn’t Know About Metal Roof Installation

Thinking about metal roof installation for your home or business? What are the costs? Can you avoid the waste and cost of removing your old asphalt shingle roof? Should you hire professional constrictors or try to install the metal roofing on your own? Let’s consider some of the key benefits and challenges of installing a metal roof.

Installing Over an Old Roof

Perhaps one of the more appealing benefits of metal roof installation is that it is possible to install a new steel roof over a shingle roof. As long as you keep to the building codes in your area, it is possible to avoid tearing off the old roof.

Metal roofing is a lightweight, durable option that does not add additional weight to the structure of the home. Because of this, layering the new metal roof over old shingles can save you money and hassle. Additionally, installing over the shingle roof will reduce the noise that is often associated with steel roofing. Before installing, be sure to contact the local building department to review code requirements in your area.

A Lifetime Investment

Asphalt shingles require replacement every ten to twenty years. However, metal roofing can last a lifetime, up to seventy years. The roof is often guaranteed for thirty to fifty years, depending on the warranty. The steel shingle system is often preferred over the standing seam roof because it mimics more stylish traditional roofing styles. The metal roof may be installed over a framework of 2x2s, ensuring further durability, especially in extreme weather.

DIY Versus Hiring Contractors

Some homeowners choose the do-it-yourself route to reduce the cost of installing a metal roof. Companies can provide kits for installing steel roofs. These kits often do not have the same insulation and ventilation options as a professionally installed roof. Additionally, installing a roof does require a significant bit of handyman knowledge that might be difficult for the novice.

Be sure to contact a professional installation contractor to find out the pros and cons of DIY installation. Metal roofing will provide your home with a lifetime of security and insulation. Eco-friendly and durable, you will enjoy your metal roof for decades to come.

Top 3 Metal Roofing Pros and Cons

Are you considering metal roofing for your house or business? Is it time to repairan older roof or are you looking for new eco-friendly materials to save you money? Consider metal roofing pros and cons when searching for new roofing options. Metal roofing is becoming increasingly popular throughout the country, replacing more traditional options like asphalt shingles. Low maintenance, visually attractive, and very efficient, metal roofing is the perfect fit for you.

An Eco-Friendly Option

Environmentally friendly homeowners and business owners are finding that metal roofing options are a great low maintenance solution instead of petroleum-based products like asphalt shingles. Metal roofs are sustainable. In fact, when considering the metal roofing pros and cons, homeowners will be happy to find out that metal roofs are comprised of recyclable materials. Not only that, the metal can be recycled. Steel roofing, in particular, maintains his strength and durability after recycling. They are also energy efficient, saving significantly on heating and cooling costs.

Interested in solar panels? Metal roofs make solar panel installation easy. Additionally, homeowners that want to harvest rainwater find that the design of metal roof makes collecting water easy. The lightweight construction is ideal for the eco-conscious homeowner. In fact, metal roofing can be installed over shingles, saving the cost and waste of removing an old roof.

Cost

Metal roofing installation costs can be very high, especially when compared with traditional asphalt shingle roofing. Added insulation and specialty shingles to minimize noise indoors or dents due to extreme weather also adds to the cost. Consider the cost of replacing asphalt shingles several times over the course of the home’s lifetime versus the cost of a single metal roof for decades. Depending on your specific situation, the initial high cost may be worth it for a lifetime of secure low maintenance roofing.

A Durable Long-Term Investment

Unlike asphalt shingles that have a lifespan of ten to twenty years, a well-maintained metal roof can last decades, up to seventy years. Rust-proof coatings ensure that rust and corrosion do not affect the metal. Extreme weather like heavy snow and ice do not affect metal roofing, although denting can be a possibility.

A metal roof is a durable, stylish option that will withstand the elements over time, providing security for homeowners and business owners alike.

4 Popular Types of Metal Roofing Residential Options

What types of metal roofing residential options are available for the average homeowner? Sure they are both economically and eco-friendly, requiring less maintenance and absorbing energy costs, but what styles are best for your home? There are a variety of types from aluminum to galvalume steel or even copper. Each has unique characteristics that make them the best choice for your residence.

The Aluminum Roof

Aluminum roofing is a long-term durable and lightweight option for your home. It doesn’t rust. This makes it ideal for home on the coast. Because of new prepainted types of metal roofing residential choices, you can customize your roof to match the style and architecture of your home. Needless to say, this eco-friendly roof is usually made out of over ninety percent recycled material. That is the amount of aluminum found in over one thousand soda cans. You can feel confident that your aluminum roof will be beneficial to both you and the environment.

Galvanized Steel

Your galvanized steel roof is made of a base of carbon and iron steel. An additional coating of zinc is added. The coating offers additional protection against harsh weather like snow and ice. If you are looking for lower initial costs, the galvanized steel roofing is often less expensive than the aluminum roofing. The thickness of the zinc coating will help the steel to remain rust-free for a longer period of time. There are a variety of tiles available in galvanized steel, including pre-painted shingles. Unlike aluminum, homes on the coast should not select galvanized steel due to rusting. This is an enduring material, however. The recycled content of galvanized steel is typically around thirty percent.

Galvalume Steel

If you want to choose a steel roof for your home, you can opt for galvalume steel, which is coated with a special alloy of zinc and aluminum. This makes it more resistant than galvanized steel roofing, although it is more prone to microcracks over time. This is through a process called “tension bend staining”, and can lead to long-term deterioration if not repaired. The recycled content of galvalume steel is also around thirty percent, though its cost is more than galvanized steel.

Copper Accents

If you want an exquisite metal roof, copper is a very flashy way to show your style. Copper is typically more of an accent material due to its very high cost. Over time a blue-green patina will result from precipitation. It can take about a decade for this to form on new copper roofs. The patina provides extra protection against weather and salt spray. While some homeowners may protect the flashy finish of the copper roof, most opt to allow it to naturally age, giving it its signature look. Besides copper roofing, some other interesting options include stainless steel, titanium, and rolled zinc. Most of these residential homes are custom designed by an expert architect.

Once you choose the right roofing material for your home, you can decide whether to use shingles, tiles, shake, or slate. These give your home a more traditional look will still using eco-friendly metal roofing. These options give your home a textured look that is quite attractive. Another very popular option is the standing seam, which is modern in look. Choose the roofing style that best fits your home.

Metal Roofing Blog

Versatility

Energy Efficiency

Safety

Fifty Year of Durability

Energy Efficient and Eco-Friendly

Drawbacks

Beautiful Design and Color

Metal is Excellent for Roofing and Walls

Spray Foams

Batts and Blankets

Being Eco-Friendly

The Benefits of Energy Efficiency

A Roof for a Lifetime

Roof Size

The Basics

Components

Durability

Cost

Energy Efficient

Long Lasting

Versatile

Installing Over an Old Roof

A Lifetime Investment

DIY Versus Hiring Contractors

An Eco-Friendly Option

Cost

A Durable Long-Term Investment

The Aluminum Roof

Galvanized Steel

Galvalume Steel

Copper Accents