Metal Roofing And The Curious Homeowners: What You Need To Know

For many homeowners, metal roofing is one of the most logical options when it is time for a full roof replacement. Here are some of the common curiosities homeowners tend to have about metal roofing for their home.

What gauge should you pick for a metal roof?

When you are dealing with metal, higher gauges mean thinner metal. You will notice different gauge ratings on different types of metal, so it is important that you know the difference. Something like 29-gauge sheet metal on a roof is common, but the lower gauges work well in areas where there is a lot of high wind or a risk of storms and hail. Further, thicker metal can be more resilient overall and may last longer. Plus, it is less likely to warp and bend with age and cause the roof to have that trademark wavy appearance that comes along with the metal changing or bending.

Can you install metal on a flatter roof?

Metal does not work well on roofs that don't have a decent vertical rise. The metal does not do so well at repelling water and moisture if it is not sloped properly. Therefore, flatter roofs do tend to be better suited to a different type of roofing material.

What does the wind rating mean on metal roofing?

When metal roofing is manufactured, it is given a wind rating after a series of tests are performed. Wind rating tells you how much wind the roofing can withstand before it will bend, which is an important thing to know if you live in an area that gets a lot of wind. For example, something with a 140-MPH wind rating is going to withstand a pretty substantial gust of 140 MPH before it will bend. Therefore, the metal panels would likely work well in areas where heavy wind is an issue. Lower-gauge metal roofing tends to have a higher wind rating because it takes more force to bend the material.

What is the purpose of the metal ridge cap? Can you go without it?

The metal ridge cap runs along the seam at the highest points of your roof. It is designed to protect the joints from moisture and wind. Therefore, it is a necessity during installation to protect the life of the roof. If you don't like the look of a metal ridge crap, however, there can be variations that are less noticeable.

For more information, contact a local roofing contractor.