Misconceptions About Metal Roofing and Colder Winters
With colder temperatures rapidly approaching, a common misconception among homeowners is that a metal roof can increase cold temperatures in your home. However, there are several energy-efficient benefits to installing metal roofing. Here you’ll learn the facts about energy-efficient savings metal roofing can provide.
The Truth Behind Metal Roofing
According to recent studies, a metal roof surface stays within five degrees of the temperature of an average asphalt shingle roof, even during sub-zero temperatures. Data has revealed that there is more fluctuation between hot and cold temperatures with asphalt shingles. The inner layers of metal roofing maintained a more consistent temperature despite what was going on outside.
The insulating powers of metal are efficient at conducting heat, which allows it to transfer heat to cold areas of your roof, in addition to absorbing heat from surrounding warmer objects, retaining a warmer temperature for long periods of time.
Using Sunlight and Heat Efficiently
As sunlight reaches the exterior of your home, it is absorbed by your siding and roof. It is stored during the night, helping to fight off cold temperatures. Metal is able to store and conduct this heat more efficiently than asphalt shingles, clay tiles, or wood. This helps to offset the cost of heating your home.
A metal roof acts as an insulator that prevents warm air from escaping, helping to regulate your indoor temperatures and giving some much-needed relief to your HVAC system. Surface temperatures of a metal roof are generally several degrees warmer than outside air temperatures, assisting with your home’s energy efficiency. The addition of insulation and heating elements in the sublayers of a metal roof can help trap heat.
How Your Metal Roof Affects Indoor Temperatures
When metal roofs and their sublayers are installed efficiently, they trap and absorb heat during the winter. During the summer months, they deflect heat. The addition of reflective and absorbent coatings to your roof can dramatically reduce energy costs, making your home more energy efficient and comfortable.
Low Maintenance Benefits
Depending on the type of metal that is used to craft a roof, it can last anywhere from 30 to 50 years with proper care. High-end metals and materials, such as copper and zinc, have a much longer lifespan. They can last up to 100 years with the correct maintenance. Reflective paint coatings and solid construction will help deflect moisture and prevent rust. Re-application of protective coatings every few years will optimize function and energy savings.
The Beauty of Metal Roofing
Metal roof materials are available in a wide variety of trendy styles and colors that can replicate the look of more traditional roof styles, including tile, asphalt, and wood shingles. Homeowners have the flexibility to choose the size, shape, and color of their metal, customizing a look that is unique for their homes.
Additional Insulation Options
Replacing your asphalt roof doesn’t require extensive deconstruction and disposal of old roofing materials. One of the benefits of installing metal roofing is that it can be installed over existing roof materials. Provided your local and state building codes allow this type of work, you can add layers of insulation. Your roofing contractor may need to install additional venting options to minimize moisture buildup within layers. This additional step will increase the efficiency and function of both new and old elements of your roof.
Ice and Snow Buildup
In cases of extreme weather and cold temperatures, ice and snow can build up on a metal roof. This can be remedied by the thermal conducting properties of metal. Considering its ability to warm from the inside after absorbing heat from the sun and surrounding air. Even the heaviest snowstorm doesn’t last very long on metal roofing, which eliminates moisture, maintaining well-regulated temperatures inside and outside.
Let Us Serve You!
At Big Rock KangaROOF, we are experts at creating beautiful yet functional metal roofing. Whether you are in need of urgent service and repair after a storm or you are just considering a metal roof for your home, our professional contractors are here to help. Thirty years of experience in Central Arkansas and a passion for customer service make us the best in the roofing business. We offer roof inspection, repair, and installation for both metal and shingle roofs. Contact us today to see how we can reduce energy costs and protect your most valuable asset.