Toronto roofing contractors & metal roofing installations by London Eco Roof

Do Metal Panels Trap or Repel Heat?

“Will a metal roof or panels make my home hotter?” One of the most common questions we receive as metal roof contractors. With an answer that surprises many homeowners, as a metal roof can actually help make your home cooler! This is due to two separate factors: the metal material and finish, as well as the construction or assembly of the structure. Let’s dig deeper to find how metal panels trap or repel heat.

Material Matters

Different metals conduct heat differently. You could, for example, have a roof made entirely of copper. A totally copper roof would be an excellent conductor of heat. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is a very poor conductor of heat. On top of the material, both the color and finish of the metal will affect its heat absorbency and retention. So yes, a metal roof will certainly heat up when exposed to direct sunlight. But throw a reflective finish on the panel and you have a far cooler roof than asphalt.

Construction

While the material and color will certainly affect the amount of heat collected by your roof, the biggest contributor to heat transferring to the home below is the type of construction between the roof and the home. How well that room ventilates plays an important role in controlling the ambient temperature. Once proper ventilation is established, ceiling insulation should be considered. The more there is, the less will be conducted into the room below. To help keep your home cool, some metal roof installers will include above sheathing ventilation (ASV). This system allows air to flow between your roof sheathing and the insulation, then get released. That means less heat energy is absorbed by your home.

Metal roofing is one of the most energy efficient materials available to homeowners and can help lower the energy used to cool off your house. Instead of absorbing all the sun’s heat, metal works to keep the hot air out, which in turn reduces how much air conditioning you need.

So there you have it! With proper installation, metal panels or roofs can keep your home cooler as opposed to trapping heat. Wondering if metal panels are suitable for your next project? We will be happy to answer any of your questions at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!

How To Plan A Metal Roof Project

Choosing a new roof for your home is an exciting and critical time. This roof must last you for years to come; while remaining durable as well as aesthetically pleasing. Luckily, when you choose to go with a metal roof, you choose an attractive and functional material with long lasting strength. That being said, planning for this type of structure is not as simple as saying “I want a metal roof!” There are a wide range of colors, styles, capabilities, and costs surrounding the different types of metal. With so much variation, the advice from an expert can do wonders for clarifying which roof is right for you. Follow these tips to help you plan for your metal roof today!

Research And Decide On A Budget

As with all major purchases, establishing a budget is one of the primary steps you should take. You can begin by researching the average types and associated costs of metal roofs in your area. Bear in mind that while some roofs may be made of the same material, varying finishes will come with their own additional costs. From here, you can plan how much you should save to purchase your new metal roof.

Choose A Metal That Is Compatible With Your Home

Before even considering styles or colors, you should consider which material is the most compatible with your home. This includes how well the metal withstands your local climate as well as how well it can function with the other aspects of your house. Will the metal be exposed to high winds, a lot of rain or snow fall, or are you in a tropical area with a lot of salt in the air? Is your area dry or humid? Will the roof be built on top of an existing one, or is this a new construction?

Choose A Style You Enjoy

One of the beauties of metal roofing is that you have a wide variety of panel styles to choose from. You may like the look of true standing seams or corrugated, perhaps you would like to replicate the look of shingles or slates. Personal preference will play a huge role in which style you plan for. Some homeowners may even consider how their roof will look amongst others in the neighborhood. Whichever style you decide on can set your home apart in terms of beauty and distinction.

Research Contractors In Your Area

Ideally, the Contractor for your metal roof installation should have an eye for design paired with an excellent reputation. Get a feeling about their client history by not only exploring portfolios, but by reading reviews. After completing your due diligence on several reputable companies, it’s time to ask for estimates. Consider your budget and their expertise when finalizing your decision.

Your next step is choosing a start date and voila! You will soon be preparing for your new metal roof installation. Wondering if we can help with your next project? We will be happy to answer any of your questions at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!

How To Select Trim For Metal Roofing

Your roof does so much more than protect your home from the elements. Your roof is the cherry on top, the final piece of the puzzle, and the detail that can make or break your home. While you are familiar with the varying colors, textures, and finishes available for your overall roofing structure, the trim may have escaped your mind. Don’t forget about the gables and eaves either! These smaller, but still pertinent details, play a major role in how your home looks. If you want your home to look its best, keep these factors in mind when selecting trim for your metal roof.

Your Home’s Exterior

Consider your home’s exterior. All the way from the doors, to its siding to its windows. Even consider the landscaping. You will notice that your home has its own unique, distinct sense of flair. The roof, trim, and all the little bits in between should enhance and compliment these details.

Your Desired Look

Remember that colors can be combined to influence perceptions. For example, selecting a trim color that complements your home’s siding can give your home a vintage feel, where the color scheme is reminiscent of the past. On the other hand, choosing a trim color that is in contrast to the palette used across the rest of your home lends itself to a more expressive, creative, and attention-grabbing appeal. You can also choose colors that look like metal, such as platinum or slate gray. These can give your metal roofing trim a fashionable, trend-setting appearance.

Energy Efficiency

Metal roofs deliver long lasting beauty and performance, while simultaneously saving on energy costs. Metal roofing utilizing cool colors are known to have energy savings ranging from 7%-15% of overall cooling costs. Because more heat is reflected, energy bills are lowered. Cool painted metal roofs also retain 95% of their initial reflectance and emittance over time. Equaling a longer lifespan over conventional roofing systems. When choosing your trim, you may consider these cooler colors as well.

Want to learn more about your metal roofing and trim options? Get in touch with our team today to learn more. We will be happy to answer any of your questions at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!

Aesthetic Benefits of Metal Roofing

Not only does a metal roof transform your home aesthetically, but provides a host of other benefits incomparable to other roofing materials. Metal roofs are environmentally friendly, low maintenance, light weight, protective, durable, and versatile. But if you are looking for that unique detail that will truly set your home apart – metal roofs are the clear choice. What are some of the many aesthetic benefits of metal roofing?

Metal Roofs Are Versatile

From cape cods and contemporary style homes to tiny houses and cabins, there is no home that a metal roof won’t work well on. Any home or building can possess a stunning profile utilizing metal panels thanks to their:

Vast Array of Colors and Finishes: Whether you are going after neutral and natural tones or bold pops of color, there’s a metal panel to suit your style. Looking to add depth to your home? Textured panels are the perfect choice. Whatever home facade you envision, painted, textured, and natural metal panels can help create it. What better way to guarantee an eye-catching building than through the creative use of color?
Varying Profiles: There is no one size fits all metal panels. Corrugated metal roofs offer that classic metal roof look. While standing seam metal roofs offer a more clean and contemporary look. All without the sacrifice of structural integrity!

Make The Impossible, Possible

Because metal is lightweight and malleable, it can be bent and curved without sacrificing strength or integrity. The malleable nature is a major advantage when working with unique or challenging building forms. Providing roofing solutions that are impossible to consider using traditional construction methods. Consider the slim overhangs that are only achievable with a metal roof. Or the easy integration of other materials, such as wood or glass, within the roofing structure.

While the practical benefits of metal roofs are many, so too are the aesthetic advantages. From extraordinary details, wide range of colors, and array of creative construction ideas, metal roofs become a clear choice. If you would like to learn more about your metal panel options, contact our qualified team of professionals at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com.

Are Metal Panels Suitable For Canadian Climates?

Metal panels have unbelievable strength and high-performing characteristics. But you may be wondering if that means they can withstand the harsh Canadian winters. Whether you live in the rugged mountains or own a second home in a dry desert, we’re breaking down exactly how metal will perform in any climate.

High Precipitation Climates

A leaking roof is a homeowner’s worst nightmare. No matter if you have to replace or simply repair a leaking roof, it’s going to cost you time and money. If you live in an area that experiences high amounts of precipitation, metal can be one of the best roofing solutions for you. Metal panels shed water like a pro, and don’t retain any moisture.

High Wind Environments

Some areas are prone to wind more often than others. If you live in an area with frequent high-speed winds, roofing and siding can be tricky. Less sturdy materials, such as shingles, can lift and fly away. Damaging your home and others. Metal is a structurally sound solution that can easily hold up well in windy conditions.

Heavy Snow Environments

Heavy amounts of snow over a short period of time can cause extra stress on your roof. One of the biggest concerns with heavy snow loads on a roof is protecting a home’s moisture barrier. As snow slightly melts, it will refreeze on your roof before sliding off. While this happens, it’s crucial your roof is able to maintain its moisture barrier. Luckily, metal roofs are designed to hold and withstand heavy snow loads. Metal panels are also significantly lighter weight than asphalt shingles, so the added extra weight of snow doesn’t add as much extra stress on your home.

Hail Prone Environments

Hail can be detrimental to your entire roofing system, and your budget. While there is no 100% hail proof roof, metal panels come pretty close in terms of hail resistance. When it comes to a metal roof’s best defense against a hail storm, the thicker the metal the better.

Wondering about which panel we’d recommend specifically for your environment? Get in touch with our team today to learn more. We will be happy to answer any of your questions at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!

How are Insulated Panels Made?

Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs) are climbing the ladder of top construction materials. Their superior insulating properties, increased spanning capabilities and single-step installation make them efficient and cost-effective. Combine that with the assortment of colors, widths, profiles and finishes. Making them the perfect choice! So how are these superior building materials made?

What’s In The Middle?

In the most basic terms, IMPs are comprised of rigid insulation sandwiched in between metal skins. Based on the manufacturer, that insulation material varies. The most common filling is expanded polystyrene, but IMPs can also use extruded polystyrene, polyurethane, and other materials. Different fillings have different performance properties. Some are better insulators while others are more structurally sturdy. This also leads to variations in thickness.

Bind It Together

Oriented strand board (OSB) tends to make up the outside of the panel. That being said plywood and fiber cement board are also common. Manufacturers apply structural-grade adhesives to stick these outer pieces to the insulation using machines called roll coaters. The machines apply glue from the bottom layer up, starting with a single sheet of OSB lying flat. The foam core is then placed into the adhesive, followed by another coating of glue on the foam core, and then the top layer of OSB is added.

Turn Up the Pressure

The adhesive has a tendency to expand. In order for the panel to stay together, manufacturers must press the entire piece together using a large machine.

Trim the Excess

Initially, IMPs are much larger than what we see on the construction site. IMPs must be cut to fit the custom shapes and sizes determined by the architect. To finish each panel, manufacturers can add connectors, create joints, or close off the exposed edges with a thin strip of OSB.

Long story short, IMPs are formed by a continuously poured-in-place manufacturing process that binds interior and exterior steel facings to a Class 1 foam plastic insulation. But these panels are so much more than that! IMPs are a beautifully strong and thermally efficient metal cladding product. They are readily available, easy to install, and every day designers are finding new and exciting applications for this dynamic and versatile building product.

Are Metal Roofs Energy Efficient?

You have heard it before! Metal panels are sustainably sourced, environmentally friendly, and energy efficient? But you may want to know more. What is it about metal roofs that makes them energy efficient? How, exactly, can they help you save on heating and cooling costs? In this blog, we will take a closer look at the energy efficiency of metal roofs and how you can reap their benefits.

Cool Roofs

As you may know, metal roofs come in a vast range of advanced colors and finishes. Some of these paint systems are crafted with highly reflective pigments as well as a high thermal emittance. The reflectivity determines how much energy is reflected away from the roof, while the emittance measures the panels’ ability to release heat it has absorbed. The two combine to create what is known as a “Cool Metal Roof.”. Because there is less heat entering the roof system, there is less heat entering the attic space and the overall home. Resulting in a lower utility load; some studies have even shown a cool metal roof can lower cooling energy costs by as much as 20%!

Above Sheathing Ventilation (ASV)

ASV adds a ventilated airspace between the roofing material and the substrate below. This airspace allows energy to move through the space and vent back into the atmosphere, as opposed to being absorbed by the building. For those who live in hotter climates, ASV can have a massive impact on the amount of energy being absorbed into the home. In fact, studies have shown that an ASV system can keep an attic 5 degrees cooler than ambient air, whereas an attic below a shingled roof tends to be 40 degrees hotter than ambient air. The less heat absorbed into the home, the less you will need to run your cooling system.

Environmentally Friendly

Not just for the home, even the manufacturing process of metal panels is more energy efficient than other roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles. Metal panels are often manufactured from a high percentage of recycled material, and can be RE-recycled after their use. Add on the fact that metal roofs have little to no maintenance required over their span of 60+ years. Meaning less drain on resources overall.

For these reasons and more, metal panels lend themselves to the best that sustainable building has to offer, protecting the earth and your bottom line. Contact our team today to learn more. We will be happy to answer any of your questions at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!

Aesthetic Benefits of Metal Panels

Metal panels within construction are a practical choice. The primary reasons being that they are environmentally friendly, low maintenance, light weight, and provide protection and strength to the building. However, metal panels also come with many aesthetic benefits worth considering. No other material can dramatically change the overall look of a structure, while maintaining those primary benefits, quite the way metal panels can. Let’s take a deeper look at some of these “book cover” benefits of metal panels.

Stunning Array of Construction Creativity

The possibilities of metal cladding systems are virtually unlimited. Metal panels can provide roofing solutions that are impossible to consider using traditional construction methods. Materials such as glass, brick, and wood can easily be incorporated into the design that stand out. Giving more purpose to those tiny details and elevating the overall “wow” factor of the structure.

Striking Building Design Through Color

What better way to guarantee an eye-catching building than through the creative use of color? And metal panels have exactly what you need to accomplish just that! The majority of manufacturers offer a wide array of specialty finishes for IMPs and Roofing Panels. The array of palettes available to the architect are virtually limitless! Envision industrial apartment buildings with juxtaposed panels highlighting the facade. Or subtle color changes around curves of the building.

Extraordinary Details Are Achievable

The detail opportunities that arise with a metal panel system are immense! Slim overhangs that are only achievable with a metal roof. Rounded corners or raised elevations are easier to achieve, without compromising strength. Perforated profiles or textures can all be crafted with ease. Other materials, such as Corian solid surfaces, can achieve the same. But none will hold the same strength nor be as lightweight as a metal panel.

While the practical benefits of metal panels are many, so too are the aesthetic advantages. From extraordinary details, wide range of colors, and array of creative construction ideas, metal panels become a clear choice for both the structure or the roof. If you would like to learn more about your metal panel options, contact our qualified team of professionals at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com.

Preparing for a Metal Roof Installation

We know you are as excited as we are regarding your upcoming metal roof installation. After all, you’re about to be the owner of an eco-friendly, durable, and eye-catching metal roof that will protect your home for decades! However, no big project comes without the necessary forethought and preparation. To help you prepare for your metal roof installation, we’ve compiled the following checklist.

Before Installation

Before workers arrive, be sure to complete the following:

Clear walkways and other areas of the job site for easy maneuvering.
Work trucks can be large and carry heavy loads! Make sure any personal vehicles, bikes, and toys are moved to accommodate them.
No crew member comes without tools and equipment! Predetermine an area where the crew can leave their tools as well as personal belongings.
If you have shrubbery or other plants surrounding your home, cover these with a tarp to prevent unwanted metal scraps from falling into them.
Good manners are important! Make sure your neighbors are aware of the upcoming, somewhat noisy, roof installation.

During Installation

While the crew is busy installing your gorgeous, long lasting metal roof, make sure:

Any pets have been tied or brought inside.
Children are in a secure area away from the job site.
Any loose items are secured in case the house shakes.
Dumpsters (your contractor should arrange this) and trash bags are available for scraps and other waste.
There may be an increase in dirt flying around; keep doors and windows shut to avoid any dust entering your home.

At the end of the day, a successful and easy roof installation boils down to good communication. Knowing expected work periods, no-go areas of your property, which doors/gates should remain shut, and other tiny details will all contribute to a smooth installation. When you know what to expect, you can better prepare yourself for your metal roof installation. To recap:

Before: After choosing the best contractor and bid, prepare your building, yard, neighbors, children, and pets for the install.
During: Expect a lot of activity, people, and loud noises during the installation. Try to avoid hovering over workers and only communicate with your main contact about any concerns.
After: Make sure the work is done to your liking, you know how final payments are collected, and you know how warranties are handled.

How Long Can A Metal Roof Last?

Nothing lasts forever, but the right choice of metal roofing can endure for many lifetimes. Just take a look at some of the roofs atop cathedrals and castles in Europe! If priorities for your roof include low maintenance and longevity, metal should be one of your first choices. So, just how long will your metal roof last? Let’s take a look!

Overall Lifespan

Overall, the expected lifespan of a metal roof is unrivaled. Often lasting 50 to 100 years with the proper care and maintenance. Compare this to other roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, that only last between 10 and 20 years. And when you do eventually need a replacement, the metal panels are 100% recyclable! Not only are metal panels durable, but eco-friendly.

Differing Metals

Different metals will last a different amount of time. Galvanized metal, for example, can last at least 50 years. Perhaps even more, as the practice of galvanizing is only 60 years old! Copper roofs are considered to be the best roofing material in the industry due to their longevity and durability. These roofing systems can last 100 – even 200 – years, easily withstanding wind, saltwater, and more. Steel roofs, on the other hand, can last up to 75 years, while zinc roofs can last longer than 100! Aluminum roofs last the least amount of time compared to other metals, often lasting up to 50 years.

How To Maintain Longevity

Ensuring the longevity of your metal roof is easy. Proper care and maintenance will be the key. It’s important to clean your metal roof at least once per year, but ideally after the change of the seasons. Clean gutters, drains, and sweep other dirt or debris from the surface of the roof. Structural maintenance is more in-depth. You should have your panel seams inspected at least once per year and make sure areas in need of new/more sealant are attended to.

Metal panels are a wonderful, long-lasting investment to make for your home or building. If you would like to learn more about your metal roofing options, contact our qualified team of professionals at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com.

Metal Roofing Blog