Pros and Cons of Standing Seam Metal Roof

Are you thinking of replacing your roof? Or still, deciding on what roofing material to choose for your new home? Then consider a standing seam metal roof.

A standing seam metal roof is one of the most common types of metal roofing systems. It has concealed fasteners and features raised seams or vertical legs. This roofing system has a different installation approach compared to other roofing types. Instead of nails, it uses a snap lock system to fasten the panels together.

Standing seam metal roofs are becoming popular among residential and commercial buildings. But is it the right option for you? To help you decide, we've listed some of the pros and cons of standing seam metal roof panels.

Pros of a Standing Seam Metal Roof

A standing seam metal roof is often preferred for its advantages. Here are some benefits you can get from this roofing type.

Eco-Friendly Material

If you want to make your home eco-friendly, then the standing seam metal roof might be the right choice. Unlike traditional asphalt shingles, vertical seam roofs are made from recyclable materials such as aluminum. So when it's time for a roof replacement, you can rest assured that your roof will not end up in a landfill. You could even repurpose the old standing seam metal roof for other projects.

Energy Efficient

Whether or not you're into eco-friendly homes, you will undoubtedly appreciate the energy efficiency of a standing seam metal roof. Of course, energy-efficient roofing options might be more expensive upfront. But these roofing materials can eventually save you more energy costs in the long run.

How is a standing seam metal roof energy-efficient? Some homeowners mistakenly believe that metal roofing panels will make their homes warmer since metal heats up under the sun. However, the opposite is true: standing seam metal roofing reflects solar radiant heat. This means that it can help your home stay cool longer, allowing for better energy savings.

Lightweight

Standing seam roofing is the way to go if you want to reduce the load on your roof's supporting structure.

Standing seam panels are lightweight and flexible. This allows the roofing contractors to easily move them around and carry the panels to your roof. This also means a safer and faster installation!

Durable

Although standing seam metal roofs have less weight, they are one of the most durable roofing materials available. This is due to their hidden fasteners which allow this roofing system to endure extreme weather conditions without coming loose, rusting, or leaking.

No Exposed Fasteners

As mentioned above, the concealed fastener feature helps with the standing seam roof's durability and longevity.

Standing seam systems are often installed using clamps or clips. And since the roof fasteners are not visible on the standing seam metal panels, they are also not exposed to moisture, UV rays, wind, and other elements, which can wear different roofing systems quicker. Moreover, no fastener heads allow for a clean, modern, and minimalistic roofing aesthetic which might improve your curb appeal.

Cons of a Standing Seam Metal Roof

Like other roofing types, standing seam metal roofing systems also have disadvantages. And although the benefits of standing seam metal roofs are great, it pays to consider these disadvantages before making your decision.

Expensive Compared With Asphalt Shingles

The biggest concern for most homeowners is that standing seam metal roofs are expensive. This roofing type can cost between $8 to $14 per square foot installed, making it more expensive than asphalt shingles or other types of metal roofing. Nonetheless, standing seam panels are still significantly cheaper than metal shingles.

Noisy

Seam metal roofing panels can be noisy, especially during rain or storms. If your roof is not insulated correctly, that noise can easily carry throughout your home.

Additional insulation boards between your roof deck and the metal panels help absorb the noise. However, it won't block out the sound during heavy downpours.

Oil Canning

Oil canning is a moderately visible deformation that affects the flat areas of standing seam metal panels. This occurs when the installer fastens the metal panel too tightly. And while the panels have enough room to expand longways due to changing temperatures, they need more space to grow sideways. You'll start seeing a bubbling or wavy look on your metal panels when this happens. These can be especially visible during the day.

Thankfully, oil canning doesn't affect the functionality and longevity of standing seam metal roofs. However, if aesthetics and curb appeal are essential to the homeowner, oil canning can be a significant problem.

Intensive Installation Process

A standing seam roof has a unique interlocking technology which is a significant factor in this roofing system's advantages. However, these clip and fastener systems make standing seam roofs a little more challenging to install than metal roofing that uses exposed fasteners. And due to its intensive process, installing standing seam metal roofs will take more time than installing asphalt shingles.

Is a Standing Seam Metal Roof Right For You?

So now that you know, the pros and cons of standing seam metal roofs, is it the suitable roofing material for you?

Standing seam metal roofing is an excellent option if you live in areas with low-slope roofs and extreme weather conditions. After reading our article, you might realize that the pros of a standing seam roof greatly outweigh the cons. However, if budget is a significant issue for you, many other roofing options are available to meet your needs.

Although standing seam metal roofing is fantastic, you will only be able to enjoy its benefits if it's installed correctly. So to ensure proper installation, hire an experienced roofer from Affordable Roofing Systems.

Affordable Roofing Systems is a professional roofing company located in Tampa, Florida. Our services include roof installation, maintenance, and emergency repairs in commercial and residential buildings. Call us today at (813) 542 8462 for a free roof estimate.