While metal is already a popular roofing material in various countries, it has just began to gain popularity here in the United States. Considering that most roofs here are built using individual shingles such as asphalt, it is not surprising that there are some misconceptions about this new product.

So the question is what really is true about metal roofs and what it is not. Following are some answers to some of the common misconceptions surrounding this product.

Myths

• Noisy ? Due to metal?s high resonance properties, it is commonly believed that this type of roof is noisy, particularly during rain or strong winds. While it is true that the material can be noisy in these situations, it is only true with old systems. The modern method of installation makes use of a thick underlayment along with a solid decking as well as the use of thick fiber insulation to further dampen the noise that may be generated.

• Corrosion ? While it is true that galvanized steel is prone to corrosion, modern metal panels come pre-coated to protect against rusting. Some materials such as aluminum, copper and stainless steel are corrosion-proof so applying a protective coating is only optional.

• Lightning ? Although metal is more prone to lightning strikes than other material, this only occurs if it is located at the highest point of an area such as on a tower. A device that stops lightning can be installed to provide additional protection to the building. There is also no risk of the structure catching fire in case lightning does occur since the material is completely fireproof.

• Hot ? Metal has poor insulation properties, which is why many believe that indoor temperatures will be as hot or as cold as the outdoors if this material is used. This is not the case since proper insulation can effectively separate the temperature in the living space from the outside temperature. It is highly reflective, which means it can effectively dissipate heat rather than absorb it.

Facts

• Cost Effective ? This kind of material is the most cost effective one currently on the market as it has a considerably longer life span up to as much as eighty years. It is almost comparable to slate in terms of longevity, yet at a cost that is lower than the average asphalt shingles considering the life span of the material and low maintenance requirements.

• Durable ? The inherent durable characteristics of metal is also available as a roofing product. Although the panels come in thin sheets, it still maintains its shape with the help of corrugation. It is ideal for use in hail-prone and windy areas where conventional shingles can easily break or fly off.

• Lightweight ? When installing metal roofs, there is no need for elaborate support structures since galvanized steel is thin and lightweight.

• Maintenance Free ? Metal structures are almost maintenance free. They are not prone to moss or algae infestations, are not get easily blown off by strong winds, and do not curl from extreme heat. The only required maintenance for a full service life is a regular coating of paint to prevent corrosion.

In summary, metal roofs may be relatively new here in the United States, yet they already have an established reputation abroad. They are cost effective, durable, and low-maintenance system. Hopefully this article has helped debunk some of the myths surrounding this material and has highlighted its true advantages!

Let Schulte Roofing Be Your Houston Roof Professional!

Are you in need of a Houston roof company who knows about the many benefits of using metal for a building top? Schulte Roofing at 800-367-7663 is an expert in the installation of this type of material and can help greater Houston area customers with this and many other roofing needs!

The recent hurricanes in Texas and Florida have brought many things to our attention, and most poignantly, the lack of control we have over Mother Nature. As we look back in time, however, there are many lessons we can learn from hurricanes Harvey and Irma. Here are just three:a

Flood insurance matters ? even if you are not in a flood plain. Many of Houston?s residents learned this lesson the hard way. Typically, when we don?t live in a flood plain, flood insurance is not required by law, and we also don?t consider that we need it. However, many of Houston?s residents? homes weren?t located in a flood plain and yet their homes were filled with as much as four feet of water before the hurricane was finished. Had they had flood insurance, obviously, their losses would have been covered. As much as we may not want to consider that massive floods like the one in Houston can happen to us, the reality is becoming much more palpable ? they can happen to anyone, anywhere, regardless of where they live.

It pays to evacuate. On paper, it would have been impossible to evacuate the six million people that were affected by Hurricane Harvey. But had just the ones in mandated evacuation zones left, presumably many lives would have been saved. However, as many residents of Florida and Houston learned, there is a window in which people can leave before being stuck in a monumental traffic jam ? and in the case of Florida, with no gas in sight. Knowing what this window is, and respecting it, is something that is much better to know in advance, than to learn in hindsight.

Building codes matter. Many, many of the homes in the Florida Keys were destroyed, and a strikingly large number of them were not up to current building codes. On the other hand, many homes that were built according to the current building code were unharmed. Building codes are created precisely for this reason ? to reflect the current dangers that a home can face. And as many residents of the Florida Keys are now learning, they serve a very important role in keeping their homes safe.

Our hearts and thoughts go out to the many people affected by hurricanes Harvey and Irma, and we hope that as we recover, we can learn from our experiences, and be stronger for it.

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For many homeowners, their single most valuable asset is their residence. The roof over that home is a first line of defense against the damage caused by moisture, UV light and falling debris.

A well-maintained roof will provide the peace-of-mind that homeowners want and deserve. Proactive roof maintenance minimizes the chance that a relatively minor roof failure will lead to expensive roof repairs.

Obvious vs. Subtle Damage

When a tree limb crashes through a roof, the need for a repair is self-evident, and there's usually a quick call to the agent handling one's homeowner's policy. However, that sense of urgency is often lacking when wear-and-tear harms roof components over many years.

Because a residential roof tends to last so long, it is all too easy to grow complacent. In some cases, a gradual deterioration of roof components will go undetected until serious damage is done. Once water is working its way into the sub-roofing, repair costs quickly escalate. In other cases, a natural tendency to procrastinate is costly. Signs of a failing roof grow more evident, but the homeowner does not take action.

A Proactive Approach

Professional vs. DIY Inspections

Some homeowners take a proactive approach by examining their roofs by themselves from time-to-time. However, there are a number of disadvantages to this do-it-yourself approach:

Undetected problems - Early signs of a compromised roof are subtle and easy to miss. A trained eye is indispensable in identifying signs of deterioration.

Cursory inspections from afar - Many developing roof problems are not visible from a distance, so any attempt at a ground-level visual inspection is of limited benefit. Renting a cherry-picker is an option, although this is often a costly option, and one mistake may lead to a damaging collision between the machinery and the roof itself.

Climbing up on the roof - Sometimes it's tempting for a homeowner to take a closer look by climbing up on the roof. However, this is often dangerous, especially on a highly pitched roof, or on one with irregular surfaces. It is also possible that an inexperienced person scaling a roof may damage shingles, flashing or other critical roof components.

What We Look For

Although the overall list of potential roof problems is lengthy, there are common themes in developing roof failures:

Water flow - Gutters, valleys and other areas must be kept free of debris. Standing water quickly increases the chances of a compromised roof. Moss may grow in consistently moist areas, and this will increase moisture retention, subjecting the underlying roof to possible premature deterioration.

Fasteners - Freeze-thaw and hot-cold cycles exert stress on the nails that hold asphalt shingles in place. Over time, nails may loosen or even lift up. This phenomenon, called "nail popping," may allow water to work its way under the shingle. This may lead to rotting in the sub-roof, or it may cause leaks.

Problems with the shingles - Asphalt shingles that show signs of cupping, curling or fish-mouthing may impact the aesthetics of a home. While every curled shingle is not evidence of a pending roof problem, an expert eye can discern that difference between issues that are merely cosmetic and those that are more problematic.

Installation problems - It is important for roofing contractors to closely adhere to manufacturer instructions, and to comply with roofing industry standards vis-a-vis deck preparation, underlayment, flashing, ridge vents and nailing.

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The roof pictured above is NOT residential metal roofing.

Durable

Metal Roofs can withstand just about any kind of weather. Hurricane winds, heavy precipitation and the harsh sun won?t easily damage your system, keeping your home?s beauty and protection intact. When aluminum metal is installed, you can count on a rust- and rot-resistant lifetime roof.

Fire Resistant

Watertight

Metal roofs are also perfect for keeping out water. In fact, investing in a metal roof for winter may eliminate ice damming altogether. Its slick surface allows built-up snow and ice to slide off easily, reducing the risks of water damage due to ice dams.

Energy-Efficient

Metal roofs can help you save on energy expenses all year long. Metal roofs reflect light, helping keep your roof and your interior cool and comfortable during those hot summer months. Metal also reflects heat back into your house, limiting heat loss and keeping your home a little warmer in the winter.

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