SB Roofing Blog

There are several reasons standing-seam metal roofing is becoming more and more popular.  Metal roofs are durable, fire retardant and almost maintenance-free.  They offer environmental benefits, using a majority of recycled material in their construction. They are also energy efficient; metal reflects heat and blocks its transfer into the attic. Research has showed that metal absorbed 34% less heat than asphalt shingles, and homeowners switching to metal roofing reported savings up to 20% on their energy bills.

It is true, metal roofing is more expensive and for many homeowners asphalt shingles are the only way they are able to replace a roof, however, over time steel pays for itself. It is an investment with benefits.

The environmental benefits of metal roofs include their use of recycled material ranging from 60% to 65% use in the construction. Because it weights very little, metal roofing can be installed over existing roofs, eliminating the need to dispose of excess material in the landfill.  Steel is considered the best material for green buildings, as it helps in achieving the goal of reducing and eliminating the use of chemical substances while increasing energy efficiency and reducing waste.

Another advantage of installing a metal roof is its low maintenance. It will not crack, curl, split, rot or lose impact resistance with age, and moreover it lasts for 50-60 years. Therefore, the maintenance expenses for metal roofs are minimal. Contact SB Roofing for more information.

Original article – Republican Journal

Metal Roofs are increasingly common not only due to the fact of cost but for the reason that of versatility and green capabilities.

Whether you want to replace your old roof or are considering the what roofing material to add to your newly built home, a metal roof will complement any home.

What makes metal roofs more attractive to homeowners is its long-term durability. Metal roofs are “green” and aesthetic. There are many colors to select from. The characteristics of metal roofs, from price to longevity to durability to aesthetics are what draw architects, homeowners and builders to metal roofs.
 
Metal can survive the high winds seen in Virginia and keep out water. They can also effortlessly shed winter snow. But metal has another benefit, they keep houses cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, generating more energy efficient and environmentally friendly homes.

Resistant to fire, mildew, insects, and rot, metal roofs last a life time. Contact SB Roofing for more information on metal roofs.

Residential metal roofs provide energy savings, beauty, and protection for your Virginia Beach home for a lifetime. Metal roofs are also available in a wide variety colors to complement any style home. Metal roofs last 2 to 3 times longer than most other roof types. A metal roof will probably be your last roof.

The main benefit of metal roofing is that it can help to increase the efficiency of your home.  This increase in energy efficiency saves you money. Residential metal roofs utilize reflective pigment technology.  It reflects heat away from the home rather than absorbing it like other roofing materials thus lowering utility bills.

All metal roofs are made from 30-60% recycled material, so by choosing a metal roof, you'll do your part for the environment. Traditional shingles add an estimated 20 billion pounds of waste to U.S. landfills annually. Metal roofs can often be installed over an existing roof, no more tear-off and disposal.

Contact SB Roofing for an estimate on a metal roof for your home.

Overall, metal roofs perform better in hurricanes than asphalt or other types of roofs. In fact, Sal Alfano of Remodeling Magazine reported that homes renovated with standing-seam metal roofing show a rate of up to 95.5% cost recouped for homes in the Eastern states, and 6% resale value gain over homes roofed with asphalt.

Over time you'll save money on metal roofs too even though the initial cost is higher than most other roofing materials. The good news is, metal roofs lasts a lifetime, asphalt requires reproofing every 10 to 20 years. And as stated above, a metal roof can increase the resale value of your home.

But, it’s hurricanes that are on people’s minds, so you should know that most metal roofs have been tested to 90 psf uplift testing. That is very strong. Overall in a wind storm, metal will generally do better than asphalt. The best new though, is that metal roofs are just as wind resistant old as they are new. You won’t find that with shingles.

If it is time to replace your roof, contact SB Roofing, Virginia Beach.

There are ways to prepare your roof for Hurricane Irene. While you don’t have time to replace your roof, you can be sure that it has the best chance for successfully keeping you and your home dry.

• Remove all debris from your roof top.  During strong storms and hurricanes the water falls so fast that you want to ensure as much as possible makes it to your gutters. So, remove debris that may divert water from your gutters.
• Be sure your gutters are clean. The water should be able to run freely down your roof and into your gutter system. Overflowing gutters is the main cause of flooded basements.
• If you have low lying, or dead branches or trees that hang over your roof, remove them or have them removed if possible. You don’t want any trees or branches causing damage to your roof during a hurricane.
• Have a blue tarp on hand. If you do suffer from hurricane damage you want to get a tarp on your roof (or at least the damaged portion) as soon as possible to stop further damage.
• Walk the perimeter of your home, if you see loose or curled shingles, pay particular attention to them. These shingles lift easier in high winds.

Because of affordability and ease of installation, asphalt shingles have long been the first choice in residential roofing. However, metal roofs have slowly been increasing in popularity.

Though metal roofs may cost more up front than asphalt shingle roofs, they can be much more durable. Their lifetime spans anywhere from 40 to 60 years, as opposed to 15 years for asphalt. By choosing a metal roof, it's the last time most homeowners will have to put on a roof.

Besides longevity, metal roofs also can be more energy efficient - a "cool" solution because reflective coatings can be applied to the base metal and reduce how much heat enters a home.

Aesthetics are another plus. Standing seam roofs can also add vibrant color that withstands strong sunlight for decades.

Be sure to hire an experienced pro to install it since it takes more skill than putting on asphalt shingles.

Metal roofing is becoming a popular alternative to shingles because it is strong, aesthetically pleasing and exceedingly durable. Should you consider metal roofing for your Virginia Beach home? Other than a great appearance, metal roofing offers many benefits.

Long lasting
Metal roofing offers exceptional longevity compared to other roofing materials. Metal withstand adverse weather conditions much better than other roofs. Metal roofs look great for years with little to no maintenance.

Better Energy Efficiency
The main benefit of metal roofing is that it can help to improve your home's energy efficiency. It reflects heat away from the home rather than absorbing it like other roofing materials, so the home's attic stays much cooler. This increase in energy efficiency will lower your utility bills.

Value
Like many energy-efficient additions, a metal roof can also boost your home's resale value while making your home look great, boosting curb appeal and helping it stand out in a crowded real estate market.