What Is Standing Seam Metal Roofing?
If you’re wondering, what is standing seam metal roofing? Allow HUDCO Roofing & Exteriors to answer this for you. Standing seam metal roofing is a popular choice for new construction and home remodeling projects. The benefits of standing seam roofs are numerous, making them a good option for both residential and commercial buildings. Learn more about the types of standing seam roofs, their benefits, drawbacks, and uses so you can decide if they’re right for your home.
Standing seam roofs have been around since the late 1800s when they were first used on railroad cars and buildings. Since then, they’ve become increasingly popular as an alternative to classic asphalt shingle and tile roofs because of their durability and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.
Today, they’re available on many different types of buildings – from offices to homes. Standing seam roofing is becoming increasingly popular because it lasts longer than other roofing materials, requires less maintenance and has a lower initial cost than lower-cost alternatives.
Standing Seam Metal Roofs: An Overview
Standing seam metal roofing is made up of individual panels that are joined together by a series of seams. Each panel has a top edge, which is bent upward to form a ridge cap. The panels overlap each other at these ridges, forming what is called a “standing seam.”
Standing seam metal roofs are available in numerous colors, styles, and materials. They’re often designed to imitate the look of traditional shingle and tile roofs, but they’re more durable and require less maintenance than their counterparts.
Standing seam metal roofs are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to update their home’s aesthetic without making major changes to its structure.
Benefits of Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Standing seam metal roofing offers many benefits over other types of roofing materials. Here are just some of the benefits associated with choosing standing seam metal roofing for your home or business:
Great Durability
Standing seam metal roofs can last for decades without having to be replaced, which saves homeowners money on maintenance and repairs. The durability of standing seam roofs comes from the fact that they have no seams in them at all, which makes them much stronger than other types of roofs when it comes to handling snow loads and high winds.
Stylish Appearance
The unique horizontal lines make standing seam metal roofs appear modern and sleek despite their durability and strength. You’ll also find that standing seam roofing comes in a variety of colors, so you’ll be able to find one that matches your home’s architectural style perfectly!
Resistance to Fire
Standing seam metal roofs are especially resistant to fire, making them an ideal choice for homes in areas prone to wildfires. In fact, they have been shown to resist fire just as well as clay tile and concrete tile roofs.
Energy Efficiency
Standing seam metal roofs help prevent heat transfer into your home by providing insulation between the interior and exterior walls of your house. The color of your metal roof will also reflect heat from the sun, keeping your house cooler during hot summer days while helping keep heat inside during cold winter nights as well. This means that you will need less energy to heat and cool your home throughout the year which can save you money on your utility bills and reduce your carbon footprint as well!
Disadvantages of Standing Seam Metal Roofing
Standing seam metal roofs are a great choice for your home, but they do have some disadvantages that you need to be aware of. Here are some of the drawbacks of standing seam metal roofs:
They’re Expensive Upfront
Standing seam metal roofs cost more than other types of roofing because they require special installation techniques and equipment. A metal roof may be more expensive to install than other types of roofs, but it is also more durable and has superior longevity. Investing in a metal roof will pay for itself over time with its lower costs for repairs and maintenance, as well as longer life expectancy.
They’re Difficult to Repair
If your standing seam metal roof does become damaged in any way, it may be impossible for you to fix it yourself because the material is so specialized — meaning you’ll likely need the help of a professional contractor who specializes in this type of work. Plus, repairing a damaged standing seam metal roof will likely cost more than replacing it altogether!
They Aren’t Suitable for All Climates or Regions
Because they have seams where water can collect and freeze, standing seam roofs aren’t ideal for climates with freezing temperatures or high humidity (like the Mid-Atlantic area). If you live in an area like this, you might want to consider a different type of metal roof (such as corrugated or corrugated tin) instead.
Types of Standing Seam Metal Roofs
Whether you’re a homeowner looking into roofing options for your home, or a roofer searching for an alternative that can give you an edge in the competitive industry, standing seam metal roofs are a great option to consider. There are different types of standing seam metal roofs, and each one has its own pros and cons. Before deciding on a type of standing seam roof to install on your home, it’s important to understand the various options so that you can make an informed decision that’s best for your situation.
Here are some common types of standing seam metal roof available today:
Mechanically Seamed
Mechanically seamed roofing is a popular choice for both residential and commercial buildings because of its ability to handle the most demanding environments. This type of roof has edges that line up straight, which allows it to be installed on sloped roofs if necessary.
With a mechanically seamed roof, two pieces of standing seam metal are aligned, folded together and hammered into place. This process creates a seamless, durable roofing system that performs well in all climates. The standing seam panels are exceptionally easy to install, making this type of roofing ideal if you’re looking for a traditional appearance, but don’t want to compromise on durability.
Snap-Locked
Snap-lock standing seam steel roofing is a great option for those who want a bit more protection from the elements than what shingles provide. The way this type of material works is with a quick clipping system that keeps all the sections locked together and in place, even though high winds, rain, or snow. With snap-lock profiles installed on the roof deck using a clip that attaches to the seam and fastens underneath the panel.
Snap-locked roofing systems are made from sheets of metal that are adhered together to form a weather-proof barrier. Unlike mechanical-seamed roofing systems, snap-locked roofing systems don’t require a seamer, making the labor cheaper, and the installation process faster and easier.
Exposed Fasteners
Exposed fastener standing seam is a newer innovation that uses exposed fasteners instead of concealed fasteners like those found in traditional rolled standing seam panels. This allows the seams themselves to be part of the design element rather than just an installation detail hidden behind panels or flashings. The panels are overlapped at their edges, so a fastener goes through both layers of metal panel, leaving the head of the fastener exposed. It’s an economical option that provides reliable protection but requires additional maintenance to keep up with susceptibility to rust.
Nail-Hemmed
A nail-hemmed standing seam metal roof is a type of metal roofing that’s interlaced like siding on a house. It has one side that is lined with a nail strip, usually with holes large enough to allow for the expansion and contraction of the metal over time. This type of roofing is also known as “interlocking panels” or “nail-faced panels.”
Nail-hemmed metal roofs are known for their durability and stability, but they can also be vulnerable to damage when exposed to high wind. These panels tend to be dependent on their rigidity, so they should not be used in places where they could be easily blown off or damaged by tough storms.
Is Standing Seam Metal Roof Right for Your Home?
If you’re thinking about replacing your roof, you can’t go wrong by choosing standing seam metal roofing. It requires minimal upkeep, is an excellent choice for homes and buildings with multiple levels and can last for decades — making it an excellent option for your property.
If you want to know more about standing seam metal roofing and whether it’s a good option for your property, contact HUDCO Roofing. Our roofers have over 20 years of experience with this type of roofing material and can help you decide whether this type of roofing will suit your needs.
HUDCO Roofing offers a wide range of metal roofing services including installation, repairs, and maintenance to ensure your roof is always in good condition. By working with us, you can have peace of mind knowing that your roof is maintained by expert roofers who care about providing top quality products and services. Contact us today to learn more about our standing seam metal roofing services, or to arrange for a free estimate for your property.