A properly installed metal roof will last 40 to 70 years, and some types of metal roofs can last hundreds of years. Metal is a durable and affordable roofing material that can give you peace of mind for years to come. Once you have decided to make your roof a metal one, the question of cost and what sheet metal shop to entrust your business to comes to mind. Keep reading to learn more about what is involved in purchasing a metal roof.
Metal Roof Material List
Metal is one of the most reliable building materials available, and metal makes a strong, eco-friendly roof both for commercial and residential use. The amount of material needed to install a metal roof, of course, depends on the size and complexity of the roof. It consists of metal, of which you have a few choices, and mounting hardware.
Types of Metal Roofing
Metal roofing suppliers carry many types of metal roofing in various sized sheets. The metal and thickness of the sheets determine the quality and cost. Ask your roofing supplier for details of the metal roofing materials they carry. The common types of metal to choose from are as follows.
Copper
The classic copper roof has been used for hundreds of years. Copper is a long-lasting metal with an expected life of over 200 years. Copper is 100% recyclable, making your purchase as green as the considerable cash you will be spending. Keep in mind that copper is a soft metal, so it will dent in hail storms over the years.
Aluminum
Aluminum roofs are great for humid and wet climates because of their corrosion resistance. Aluminum doesn't rust or tarnish nearly as easily or quickly as other metals.
Zinc
Another excellent choice, zinc roofs are strong and can even self-heal scratches over time. Zinc is a favourite for "fancy roofs" as it is extremely pliable and can be easily manipulated into complex shapes and designs.
Steel
Cheap and durable, steel is the preferred material for commercial construction. Keep in mind that steel is an alloy of iron and other metals. Steel is a hard metal that makes it extremely durable, and it won't dent or blow off the roof as easily. The biggest weakness of steel is its tendency to rust. Galvanized steel and even stainless steel are often used for roofing to protect the inner layer of steel from corrosion.
How Much Will It All Cost?
The residential cost of metal roofing materials varies widely by the region and city where you live. Metal roofing material in Canada costs anywhere from $5 to $15.60/sqft, depending on the type of metal, thickness, and sheet design. Installation labour is also a big-budget concern as labour costs easily $4,000 or more. If you are a do-it-yourselfer, you could save a few bucks by purchasing the materials and putting them on yourself, cutting out the contractor.
Our Sheet Metal Shop
A metal roof provides an attractive and strong shelter. It may be more expensive than the common asphalt roof shingles, but it is built to last. When it is time to put metal to the roof, our sheet metal shop and roofing supply company is all you need to get the job done. Contact Danforth Roofing Supply Ltd for all your metal roofing needs.