Metal roofing installations are proven to be some of the most durable, longest-lasting roof systems available. But metal roofing can mean many different things to different people. And depending on the style of property, there are many different types of metal roofing that can be installed.
Metal Roofing: The Basics
Metal roofing has many benefits. Some of the main reasons metal roofs are growing in popularity are:
- Longevity – properly installed metal roofs are some of the longest-lasting roofs found anywhere. Nearly any metal roof should last multiple decades, with the coating material often warrantied for 45+ years.
- Impact resistance – metal roofs are durable enough to withstand impact from hail, which is a common problem for Colorado roofs. Metal roofing can also withstand impact from falling debris such as tree limbs.
- Fire resistance – metal roofing creates an air seal that does not allow oxygen to pass through freely, cutting fire off from its fuel source.
- Appearance – roofs built from metal can take many forms, giving property owners immense flexibility in the style of roof installed. More on that below!
Creative Metal Roofing Options
Many customers have a specific image in mind when thinking of metal roofing projects. However, they are often surprised about the wide range of styles that are available. Some of the various types of metal roofing types are:
Stone Coated Metal Roofing
Stone coated metal roofs are one of the fastest-growing roof products currently. They bring the durability of a metal roof along with the style flexibility that many property owners desire. Stone-coated steel roofs are usually 26 gauge thick and coated with adhered granules. The profile of the panel along with the color of the granules gives the material a wide range of appearances. For example, stone-coated metal roofs can have a traditional shingle appearance, or that of wood shake, slate, and even barrel tile.
Standing-Seam Metal Roofing
Standing seam metal roofs are built with long panels of metal interlocked with covered seams (or “ribs”). This is the style that many customers picture when discussing metal roofing. Standing seam metal is known for its modern appearance that is pleasing to many clients. There are dozens of color options available to suit any pallet.
Standing seam metal can be either a snap-lock profile or a mechanical lock. Mechanical-lock standing seam roofs are more common when the roof pitch is shallow (4:12 or under), and are more frequently found in commercial roofing projects.
Corrugated Panel Metal Roofing
Corrugated metal roofs are another style that is growing rapidly in Colorado. This type of roof brings a consistent appearance, almost a wavy profile, across the entire roofing system. Seams are not noticeable in corrugated roofs like they are in standing-seam roofs. Corrugated metal roofing is installed with exposed fasteners, a specific type of material fastening (more on that below).
Weathering Steel Corrugated Metal
We want to make a special mention of weathering steel corrugated metal roofing. This type of roof evokes a specific look and feel that is common in mountain communities in Colorado, and also becoming popular in Denver metro. The weathering material is designed to rust on the exterior, however, will never rust all the way through. It brings a beautiful patina onto the roof that will look fantastic and protect the property for decades. Weathering steel is available to be installed as a standing-seam roof type as well as corrugated, however, we currently see it much more frequently in a corrugated profile.
Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing
Exposed fastener metal roofs are similar to standing seam in appearance, as they have characteristic ribs in long metal panels. However, instead of using concealed fasteners beneath the metal as in standing seam, exposed fasteners use special screws drilled in from the top of the panel. When properly installed, they can last multiple decades.
Metal Tile Roofing
While less popular in Colorado, another option is metal tile roofing. These systems use individual metal tiles designed to inter-lock, creating overlap and long-lasting waterproofing. Examples of this type of roof include Diamond metal roofing tiles.
Pre-Formed Metal Panel Roofing
Pre-formed metal panel roofing systems are more common in European roofing projects. However, they are installed occasionally in the U.S., including in Colorado. They use large metal sheets formed with a large mold to create a specific design, usually appearing like a barrel-vault tile. These types of metal roofing are available in many color options.
Metal Roofing Options to Consider
Regardless of the style of metal roof you choose for your property, there are additional options your metal roofing contractor will ask you for. For example, metal roofs are available in different thickness gauges, with thicker metal adding cost to the project. We recommend a minimum of 24 gauge metal for most standing-seam and exposed-fastener systems, while stone-coated metal roofs perform great with 26 gauge metal. Additional options to consider are what trim profile you desire (ex: large lips, or short?), what color you desire, and what type of underlayment to install beneath the metal.
Metal Roof Repair in Denver Metro
While we are proud to install new metal roofs and replace existing metal roofs, we are also experts at metal roof repairs in Denver. The Sol Vista Roofing repair team would be glad to visit your property’s metal roof, diagnose any issues, and put a repair plan together for you to consider.
With such a wide array of options to consider, it’s critical to select a metal roofing contractor that understands this incredible roofing material. Metal roofs are known to protect Colorado properties for decades, and depending on the style chosen, can help property owners achieve the property appearance of their dreams. Contact Sol Vista Roofing to have a professional metal roofing project manager consult with you regarding your project.
