Metal Roofing
The Complete guide
Your Guide to Commercial Metal Roofing
If your roof is leaking or if you are having troubles with your existing metal roof, you landed in the right place.
This guide is for you.
In this commercial metal roofing guide ››
You're going to learn everything you need to know about:
- The styles of metal roofing
- Color options with metal roofing
- Various panel types and how they work
- How to select a metal roofing contractor
- And lots more
Let's dive right in.
Metal Roofing Explained
What is Metal Roofing?
For commercial buildings, metal roofing is one of the most popular commercial roof choices available today.
And when installed properly - a metal roof can offer decades of long-term performance.
In fact.
Some metal roofing systems can last 100 years or longer.
So what is a metal roof?
A metal roofing system consists of overlapping metal roofing panels or shingles that are fastened to open framing or a solid substrate.
While some metal roofs use metal roof shingles...
In this guide, we will focus on the most common styles of modern commercial metal roofing systems.
First, let's take a look at standing seam metal roofs.
What is a Standing Seam Metal Roof?
A standing seam metal roofing system is commonly referred to as a "concealed fastener" roofing system.
Where the panel seams are fastened to a solid roof deck or open framing using concealed clips or flanges.
Some standing seam metal roofs utilize a seam cap while others (mechanically seamed panels) utilize an in-field mechanical seamer to create a "double-lock" seam.
A standing seam metal roof has the following unique design characteristics:
- Each standing seam panel includes (on the long sides) a vertical "leg" that joins its adjacent panel to form the "standing seam"
- The seam stands above the flat surface of the panel to prevent water entry
- Panel fasteners are concealed for a cleaner look
- Roof panels are not penetrated by external fasteners
Standing seam roof panels are available in a wide variety of designs options.
Designs vary in terms of how seams connect, how the panel is mounted, and the finished look.
Some standing seam panels include a wide flat surface, while others include striations or ribs in between seams.
Here are some examples of various standing seam metal roof panels
Tee-Panel by Berridge Mfg.
Double-Lock Zee-Lock Panel by Berridge Mfg.
Tee-Lock Panel by Berridge Mfg.
Cee-Lock Panel by Berridge Mfg.
Asphalt Shingle FAQs
What types of metal are used in commercial metal roofing?
The most common commercial metal roofing materials are steel or aluminum. Many steel panels are created from galvanized or galvalume steel then coated for color. Some steel panels are left raw to rust for a weathered look. Copper, aluminum, and zinc round out the other primary types of metals used in metal roofing.
What gauge thickness is metal roofing?
Metal roof panel thickness traditionally ranges from 29-gauge (0.0135-inch) to 22-gauge (0.0299-inch), with other thicknesses in between - including 26-gauge (0.0179-inch) and 24-gauge (0.0239-inch). Gauge refers to metal thickness, with the lower number representing a thicker metal. Metal thickness of the same gauge varies slightly when comparing steel, galvanized steel, stainless steel and aluminum. For instance, 26-gauge uncoated steel is nominally 0.0179-inch thick, while 26-gauge galvanized uncoated steel is nominally 0.0217-inch thick.
How long does a commercial metal roof last?
While quality of materials and installation plays a part in the lifespan of any roof, some commercial metal roofing systems have lasted 100 years or longer. Many modern metal roofs are available with warranties up to 50 years.
On what types of buildings can you use metal roofing?
Metal roofing is used on a variety of commercial buildings and residential homes. Common applications include: warehouse, church, school, office building, industrial building, manufacturing plant, shopping center, resort and other hospitality, community building, farm, auto shop, aircraft hangar, brewery, casino, fitness center, and more.
What insulation is used for a commercial metal roof?
Open frame commercial buildings will often see vinyl-backed insulation fitted above the roof purlins and below roof metal. Some buildings utilize rigid foam insulation materials.