metal-roof-3Here are 5 crucial factors every homeowner must consider when purchasing a standing seam metal roof:

1. The gauge of metal: 24 gauge galvanized steel and below is standard for residential metal roofing products. When comparing estimates, the gauge of metal will drastically effect the price and the overall quality of your project. 28 gauge metal is much lighter and therefore less expensive, but is not seen as commercial grade.

2. The underlayment: Metal roofing is a completely different system than a traditional asphalt roof. Underlayments such as felt paper and ice and water shield are now being looked at as unacceptable for metal. The main factor is that the particles from these materials can leave micro abrasions on the metals’ surface during installation which jeopardizes the panel’s coating and ultimately the color.

3. The panel and locking system: There is only one type of panel that is weather tight on lower sloping roofs.  We have found that installing Englert’s A1300 panel, which is mechanically seamed, is the only way to guarantee waterproofing for low sloping roofs. If your installer is using a snap lock system, chances are it is not weather tight (only exception is a S2000 panel) and additional water proofing needs to be done on the roof’s decking to prevent leaking.

4. Cool roof coatings: All roof coatings are not created equal. If your installer cannot provide you with a certificate from the manufacturer that says your roof is Energy Star approved as a Cool Roof product, then you will not be eligible for the $1500 in tax credits available for installing metal. In addition, uncoated panels will not come with a 25 year color gaurantee!

5. MRA approved: Check out the Metal Roofing Alliance to see if your contractor is approved. If they aren’t, chances are they are only installing metal roofs sparingly. Global Home Improvement installs the most residential metal roofs in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.