Wondering if a standing seam metal roofing system is the best roofing system for your property? Knowing how a standing seam metal roof is built, its advantages, disadvantages, and how long it lasts will help you determine whether it’s right or not for your project.

atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com gathered essential information about what a standing seam metal roof is, how one is built, how it differs from a metal roof, and its long lifespan.

What Is a Standing Seam Metal Roof

A standing seam metal roof is a roofing system consisting of metal panels joined together with raised seams. The panels are typically made from steel, aluminum, or copper and come in various colors and finishes.

“Standing seam” refers to the raised seams that run vertically along the length of each metal panel. These seams are raised above the panel surface level and are typically joined together using an interlocking mechanism. When properly installed, this creates a watertight seal that prevents water from penetrating the roof.

Standing seam metal roofing systems are popular because they are extremely durable, long-lasting, and require minimal maintenance. These roofs are energy-efficient, reflecting the sun’s rays and helping keep a building’s interior cool in the summer. Additionally, they are fire-resistant and can withstand sustained high winds and other extreme weather conditions.

Components of a Standing Seam Metal Roof

A typical standing seam metal roof consists of multiple components, including the following:

• Metal Panels – These are a roof’s main structural element, typically made from steel, aluminum, or copper.
• Roof Underlayment – This protective layer is installed beneath the metal panels providing additional weather protection and preventing moisture from entering the building.
• Roof Deck – This is the roof’s foundation and is typically made from wood, metal, or concrete (depending on the structure’s construction).
• Flashing – This is typically a thin metal strip installed at the edges, penetrations, and roof seams to prevent water from penetrating the roof and causing damage or decay.
• Fasteners – These are the screws or clips used to attach the metal panels to the roof deck. They are designed to allow for the panel’s thermal movement (expansion and contraction) and prevent damage to the roof.
• Ridge Caps – These metal pieces covering the roof’s ridge (the roof’s uppermost part) provide additional weather protection.
• Snow Guards – These are devices installed on the roof to prevent snow and ice from sliding off and causing damage or injury.

Each component plays a crucial role in a standing seam metal roof’s performance and durability. Proper installation and regular maintenance of these components are essential to ensure the roofing system’s longevity and effectiveness.

Standing Seam or Metal Roof – What’s the Difference?

The terms “standing seam” and “metal roof” are frequently used interchangeably, but there is a distinct difference between them. Consider the following:

A metal roof is a roofing system made from metal materials like steel, aluminum, or copper. It can be constructed in various styles, including standing seam, corrugated, and shingle.

However, a standing seam roof is a specific metal roof type featuring raised seams that run vertically along the panels. The seams are raised above the panel surface and are typically joined using a locking mechanism, creating a watertight seal helping prevent water from penetrating the roof.

While standing seam roofs are a type of metal roof, not all metal roofs are standing seam. Other metal roof types may have different profiles, textures, and colors than standing seam roofs.

The principal difference between a standing seam roof and a metal roof is that a “standing seam” roof is a specific metal roof type featuring raised seams, while a “metal roof” refers to any roofing system made from metal components.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Pros and Cons

Standing seam metal roofs offer several advantages and disadvantages compared to other roofing systems. Consider the following pros and cons of standing seam metal roofs:

Advantages:

• Durability – Standing seam metal roofs are incredibly durable, potentially lasting 50 years or more with proper maintenance.
• Weather-Resistant – Metal roofs resist weather like high winds, hail, and heavy rain.
• Energy-Efficient – Standing seam metal roofs are reflective, helping to reduce cooling costs in warmer climates.
• Low Maintenance – Metal roofing systems require minimal maintenance and are relatively easy to clean.
• Aesthetically Pleasing – Standing seam metal roofs offer a sleek, modern look complementing various architectural styles (potentially increasing a property’s curb appeal).

Disadvantages:

• Installation Cost – Standing seam metal roofs can be significantly more expensive than other roofing systems, like asphalt shingles.
• Noise – Rain, hail, and other precipitation can be extremely noisy on metal roofs, which can be a significant concern and deciding factor for some property owners.
• Installation – Standing seam metal roof professional installation requires specialized equipment and expertise, which may add to the roof’s installation cost.
• Expansion & Contraction – Metal roofs expand and contract with temperature changes, which may cause fasteners to loosen or back out over time, potentially leading to leaks.
• Potential for Dents – Metal roofs are prone to denting when hit by large hail or other projectiles.

Standing seam metal roofs offer multiple benefits and are a popular choice for homeowners and commercial property owners wanting a durable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance roofing solution. However, they may not be the ideal option for every roofing situation, and it’s essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages carefully before making a decision.

Standing Seam Metal Roofing System

In this article, you discovered what a standing seam metal roofing system is, its components, its lifespan, how it differs from a metal roofing system, and whether it is worth the investment.

Understanding the composition and installation of a standing seam metal roof will help you make informed decisions about replacing your current failing roof.

Misunderstanding the construction and lifespan of a standing seam metal roof will leave you potentially installing the wrong roof on your building.

Sources:
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5469659/
emilms.fema.gov/is_0285/groups/151.html
gccds.msstate.edu/research/altconstruction/roof/roof.pdf
ibhs.org/wp-content/uploads/member_docs/Performance-of-Metal-Roofing-to-Realistic-Wind-Loads_ICWE_IBHS.pdf

See Standing Seam Metal Roof – Everything You Need to Know for the first version of this content.

Prevent equipment damage, electrical issues, or property damage when your metal roof starts leaking. Knowing how to identify the causes of a leaking metal roof will help you promptly get it repaired.

atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com gathered the following information about why commercial metal roofing may start to leak and how to get it repaired.

What Causes a Metal Roof to Leak?

When correctly installed, a commercial metal roof can last 40 to 70 years if properly maintained. The following are potential reasons your commercial metal roofing system has sprung a leak and how to fix it:

1. Your Roof is Aging

Over time your roof may leak due to the relentless contracting and expansion from temperature fluctuations, and damages can occur from severe weather events. Such damages may include:

• Lifted or contorted roofing panels
• Damage from debris blown onto the roof
• Improper foot traffic

As time goes by, such problems will arise. While metal roofing systems are built to resist wear, they still become vulnerable as they age.

Your roofing system should be inspected (ideally) twice per year – once in spring and again in late fall. These inspections help you detect damages from blisteringly hot summer and freezing cold winter weather.

Performing these inspections will undoubtedly extend your roofing system’s lifespan. They will also give you far advance notice of when you should begin planning its replacement. Read more about repair and replacement options at atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com/repair-or-replace/

2. Metal Roofing Screws

The screws used to install metal roofs are unique in that they are secured by a rubber gasket just under the screw’s head. This gasket forms a water-tight seal between the roofing panel and the screw. It’s a simple design that does a great job at keeping water from penetrating your metal roofing system.

There are many ways roofing screws can fail. This is why it’s so vital to contract the most qualified roofing experts when installing or repairing your roofing system. Common roofing screw failures may include:

• Misaligned screws (creates a hole beneath the screw with no pressure to form a seal)
• Under-driven screws (leaves no pressure to form a water-tight seal with the gasket)
• Over-driven screws (applies too much pressure causing damage to the panel and renders the gasket ineffective)

The only way to accurately identify leaky roofing screws is by performing a detailed visual inspection. Even if your metal roofing screws were driven correctly, it’s still wise to have them inspected every few years, as they can loosen with time from wind, vibrations, shifting, and contractions.

This issue perfectly underscores the absolute necessity of maintaining a maintenance agreement with a reputable commercial roofing company. Read more about commercial roofing maintenance programs at atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com/maintenance-programs-services/

3. Flashing Damage/Degradation

Your metal roofing system is most vulnerable wherever flashing is used to seal overlaps, penetrations, and transitions. This results from the material used to create the seal being damaged by the constant moving, vibrations, or expanding and contracting of the metal roof panels.

To prevent this sort of leak, a sealant or butyl tape is recommended to seal joints, penetrations, and overlaps. Only a sealant or tape product designed specifically for metal roofs should be used. Typical silicone caulking (frequently utilized as a sealant in other types of roofing systems) won’t always adhere to metal roof surfaces and likely will not maintain its seal.

4. Curb Flashing Challenges

On commercial metal roofing systems, you will find HVAC units usually sitting on curbs. Installing metal roof panels is a relatively straightforward process, but it’s the flashing that will present a challenge to your roofer. HVAC systems offer little to no room for mistakes or poor installment when applying this flashing and ultimately keeping a curb dry.

The uphill side of curbs and the two upper corners of the curb flashing are the more challenging areas, especially on more massive HVAC units. Water often gets trapped behind the unit and pools behind the flashing, eventually eroding sealants and causing leaks to begin.

This issue is most often treated by resealing the area or applying more tape. The more efficient way to solve this type of malfunction is to remove the affected panels and start over.

5. Seam and Overlap Leaks

Seams created where 2 sheets of metal roofing overlap one another will often leak due to a condition referred to as capillary draw. Capillary Draw happens when water can incredibly travel uphill in the small space between two tightly joined metal sheets.

An appropriate sealant or butyl tape between the two metal sheets can interrupt the capillary draw condition. However, if not used correctly, the sealant or tape may make leaks worse than before.

Restrict Access to Your Roofing System

A word of caution – Do not walk on your metal roof unless you know where you are stepping and what you are doing.

You can do more damage to your metal roof by walking on it without knowing what you are doing than any good you might do by checking the roof’s condition.

Metal roofing systems can be extremely slippery when damp, moist, or wet causing a severe slip hazard. And debris on your shoes can severely scratch/damage the finish and integrity of your metal roof. It’s better to leave that all to your roofing professionals.

Commercial Metal Roof Leaks and Repairs

In this article, you discovered multiple reasons a commercial metal roofing system may be leaking, common flashing challenges, and how to stop these leaks.

Knowing how to identify, stop, and prevent roof leaks in your metal roofing system will help you extend its lifespan potentially by decades.

Allowing your metal roof to fall into disrepair may cause costly structural damages, company equipment damage, and catastrophic roof failure.

Sources:
nasdonline.org/static_content/documents/2030/d001498.pdf
apps.floridadisaster.org/hrg/downloads/metal_roof_checklist.pdf
ssrma.org/resources/managerresources/resourcesmaintenance/common-metal-repair-procedures/

See Metal Roof Leaks – Causes and Repairs for the first version of this content.

Avoid investing your money in the wrong roofing system. Each roofing system has advantages and disadvantages you should be aware of before making this capital investment.

atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com gathered detailed information about three of the common commercial roofing systems, and their benefits and disadvantages.

Metal Roofing System Pros and Cons

Metal roofing systems are built to last, and depending on your region and property type, could be the only roofing system your commercial building may ever need. Here are some of the pros and cons to consider before committing to a metal roof.

Metal roofing system pros:

Longevity – Correctly installed and maintained, metal roofing can last as long as the building it covers (70 years or more).

Weather Resistant – Metal roofing It is highly resistant to rainwater, rot, mold, mildew, and can withstand immense pressure from accumulated snowfall.

Product Warranty – While warranties may vary, some companies will cover a metal roof installation for up to 50 years.

Fire Resistant – Metal roofing materials are noncombustible and resist fire.

Some metal roofing cons include:

Cost – Probably the most significant disadvantage, a metal roofing system can cost anywhere from $900 – $1,200 per 100 sq. feet.*

When the durability and longevity of metal roofing are factored in, the investment is more than justified. As previously stated, a properly installed and maintained metal roofing system can last as long as the structure below it.

Denting – When the necessity arises to service chimneys, satellite dishes, HVAC units, or generators, the serviceman or technician may dent your roof.

Likewise, if the gauge (thickness) of the roofing is too low in a region prone to hail storms, severe denting can occur during violent hail storms.

Noise – Metal roofing systems without sufficient insulation can get loud during rain or hail storms.

If you’re leaning towards a metal roof, read Metal Roofing Advantages and Disadvantages for a more in-depth article.

Built-Up Roofing System Pros and Cons

For more than a century, built-up roofing (BUR) systems have been a popular choice in the U.S. for commercial roofing systems.

This system is comprised of alternating layers of tar or asphalt and support materials layered on the roof, with the final one consisting of stone or gravel.

Built-up roofing system pros:

Longevity – A BUR system can last 30 to 40 years when properly installed and maintained.

Waterproof – There are no joints or seams; the roofing system is one continuous surface.

Low-Maintenance – After installation, minimal attention and servicing are required, as BUR systems are installed in large sheets with a low profile as compared to other roofing systems.

Cost – Installation and material costs can range between $500 to $800 per 100 sq. feet* or more depending on the number of layers and materials you choose.

UV Protection – BUR systems provide excellent ultra-violet protection, which reduces roof temperatures and prevents extreme temperature fluctuations within the building. UV protection also prevents the drying out and break down of roofing system materials.

Some built-up roofing cons include:

Safety – During installation, hazardous fumes and vapors are present.

Weight – BUR systems add significant weight to a building’s structure.

Learn more about commercial roof load-bearing capacity by reading atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com/what-is-commercial-roof-load-why-you-need-to-know/

TPO Roofing System Pros and Cons

Thermoplastic Polyolefin (TPO) is a single-ply roofing system fully adhered and mechanically attached or ballasted to a roof.

TPO roofing system pros:

Longevity – TPO roofing has a (current) life expectancy of about 30 years. However, this roofing system has only been available for 30 years, and with significant improvements over the decades, TPO may last much longer.

Wind Resistant – When properly installed, TPO roofing systems receive high wind ratings.

Installation – TPO roofing system installation, when completed by an experienced roofing company, is fast, clean, and practically nonintrusive.

TPO roofing cons include:

Pooling Water – When the roof slope is too low, water may pool and cause an acceleration of the material’s degradation.

Cost – Installation and material costs can range between $600 to $1,400 per 100 sq. feet* or more depending on tear-off costs and selected materials.

Seam Separation – Poor seam welding can result in seam separation, allowing water into the structure.

Read more about TPO roofing systems at atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com/tpo-roofing-system-explained/

Commercial Roofing Types

Before committing thousands of dollars for a new roof, take the time to familiarize yourself with different types of available roofing systems for your building.

In this article, you discovered information about 3 commercial roofing system options, their durability, price ranges, and other essential pros and cons.

Avoid making a poor decision when selecting a roofing system for your commercial building. Learn as much as you can about available commercial roofing systems in your area, and your local roofers,

*Costs related to roofing materials, tear-offs, and installations mentioned in this article are approximations NOT QUOTES. Visit atlantacommercialroofingcontractors.com for further information.

Sources:
everybodyneedsaroof.com/thermoplastic-membranes
asphaltroofing.org/bur-multi-ply-built-up-roofing/
cchrc.org/sites/default/files/docs/metal_roofing.pdf

See Pros and Cons for 3 Types of Commercial Roofing Systems for the first version of this content.

What if it were possible that a roof can last up to 70 years? Whether for a school, apartment building, church, commercial building, or even your home, metal roofing systems will consistently outperform other options as related to its lifespan.

The advantages of metal roofing far outweigh the disadvantages. When the time comes to replace your roof, consider the benefits and getting a quote for a metal roofing system.

Atlanta Commercial Roofing Contractors gathered the following list of advantages and disadvantages for metal roofing, and answers frequently asked questions about it.

Advantages of Metal Roofing

With such options like vertical seams, standing seams, snap lock systems, multiple designs, and a vast selection of colors to choose from, metal roofing has come a long way in the past few decades and has become a popular choice for both commercial and residential buildings.

The following are some of the primary advantages metal roofing can offer:

Durability – When installed and properly maintained, metal roofing can last as long as the structure it covers (40 to 70 years or more). It is also highly resistant to large volumes of rainwater, rot, mold, and mildew.

A maintenance contract is always suggested, as the better maintained a roof is, the longer it will last and more durable it will be.

Product Warranty – While warranties may vary, there are companies that will cover a metal roof installation for up to 50 years.

Fire Resistance – Metal roofing materials are noncombustible and resist approaching fire.

Energy Efficient – As the sun’s radiant heat is reflected by metal roofing, less energy is required for air conditioning.

100% Recyclable – While other roofing materials cannot be recycled, all metal roofing material is completely recyclable.

Adaptable – Since metal roofing can come in virtually any shape and boasts a wide color selection, it can be installed to meet the aesthetic needs of any neighborhood or region.

Paint Finishing – With many manufacturers, the finish on your metal roof is typically covered by a 30-year limited warranty.

Roof Pitch – Metal roofing materials can be installed at a minimal roof pitch without failing or leaking. Generally, you’ll find a 3-by-12 standard in which for each foot, the roof rises 3 inches.

Roof Weight – The weight of the roof to be installed can have a significant impact on the engineering of the support structure below it. Metal roofing weighs on average one-tenth of materials such as conventional or concrete tiles.

Roofing Installation Time – Because metal roofing materials come in multiple large sections or panels, an experienced contractor can install the roof quickly and easily.

Wind and Hail – Metal roofing is an excellent choice in regions that experience high winds and frequent hail storms. Many of these regions will have a gauge (thickness/weight) requirement for the installation of a metal roofing system.

Unexposed Seams – Due to the way metal roofing material interlocks, the seams are often not exposed. This dramatically reduces the chance of moisture reaching the roof deck, and likewise reduces the possibility of having leaks.

Disadvantages of Metal Roofing

While the advantages of metal roofing are many, there are a few disadvantages. As stated above, metal roofing has come a long way, and manufacturers have made improvements to address much of the following:

Price – Considered the most significant disadvantage, metal roofing can cost from $200 – $600 per 100sq. feet, which is the cost of other premium roofing materials.

This disadvantage is lessened by the durability and longevity of metal roofing. As previously stated, a well installed and maintained metal roofing system can last as long as the structure below it.

Denting – The necessity to go to the roof may come about to service chimneys, satellite dishes, HVAC units, generators, or vent pipes. Depending on how the roof was installed and the support structure below it, the plumber or technician may wind up denting your roof.

Likewise, if the gauge of the roofing is too low in a region prone to hail storms, severe denting and damage may occur during violent hail storms.

Noise – It’s metal, and like the drum in a band, it can get loud during rain or hail storms. However, the use of plywood sheathing and sound-reducing insulation during installation is an effective method of noise control.

Poor Installation/Leaks – If a metal roofing system begins to leak, it is likely that the installation was not performed correctly. Exposed fasteners, screws driven in the wrong place, and the use of improper washers to seal them can all result in leaks.

Manufacturer’s instructions need to be followed precisely by experienced and professional roofing companies.

Repairs – Since metal roofing is installed in large panels, replacing damaged panels or parts can be more difficult than doing so with other roofing systems.

Lightning Strikes – There is an urban myth which states that metal roofs are more prone to lightning strikes than other types of roofing. While this assumption is inaccurate, for your peace of mind, a lightning protection company can easily ground your metal roof.

Expansion and Contraction – Metal reacts to the hot and cold temperatures. When it gets hot, metal expands, and when it gets cold, it contracts. This “see-saw” effect can cause fasteners to come loose and eventually fail. However, newer materials are taking this movement into account and using fastening systems which accommodate it.

Insulation – Unless the roofing system is installed over an insulating material, metal roofing offers very little value as an insulator.

Fire – As stated in “advantages,” Metal roofing is excellent at resisting approaching fires. The same cannot be said for fires that start within the structure though.

Firemen sometimes have to cut through a roof to effectively extinguish a fire. With metal roofing, this process is much more difficult and time-consuming in a situation where time is of the utmost importance.

People Also Ask

Q: Do Metal Roofs Need Maintenance?
A: Yes – All roofing systems need maintenance. Metal roofing systems, however, do not require maintenance as often as other roofing systems. Periodic inspections can be made to determine the need for any repairs or maintenance.

Q: Are Metal Roofs Noisy?
A: No – When installed with strong sheathing and noise resistant insulation, metal roofing systems can reduce noises from rain, hail, etc. much better than other roofing systems.

Q: What Is The Best Color Of Metal Roof For Energy Savings?
A: Light colored roofing systems reflect more of the sun’s heat than darker colors. In fact, a light colored roof can be anywhere from 10 – 50 degrees cooler than a dark one.

Q: Are Metal Roofs More Energy Efficient?
A: Yes – In the summer months, they reflect the heat making it easier to cool the structure. During winter months, these roofing systems (when installed properly) provide excellent insulating properties.

Q: Can You Install A Metal Roof On A Flat Roof?
A: Yes – Metal is one of the most widely used materials for flat roof systems.

Q: What Is The Minimum Pitch For A Corrugated Metal Roof?
A: 5 degrees. Below this number, the roofing system begins to present severe limitations. Manufacturers will typically not provide any guarantees when the slope runs below 5 degrees.

Metal Roofing Systems Last Longer

Schools, churches, apartment buildings, commercial and industrial structures all need a durable and lasting roofing system. Incredibly, metal roofing can deliver up to 70 years of protection to your building.

In this article, you’ve discovered the advantages and disadvantages of installing a metal roofing system, the importance of a maintenance contract, and found answers to common questions about metal roofing.

A financial commitment of this proportion requires you to weigh advantages, disadvantages, cost, and return on investment. As metal roofing systems offer incredible advantages, including the ability to last the lifetime of the building, they can be one of the best investments for your new roof.

Sources:

http://www.cchrc.org/sites/default/files/docs/metal_roofing.pdf
https://www.remodelingcosts.org/cost-of-standing-seam-metal-roof-plus-pros-and-cons/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metal_roof
http://sccomm.uga.edu/recommendations/roofers.html

See Metal Roofing Advantages and Disadvantages for the first version of this content.