Metal Roofing Materials and Wall Systems
 


Are metal roofs noisy?

This is one of the biggest misconceptions about residential metal roofing. People who've experienced barns or other structures where the metal roofing is visible from the interior can recall the "pinging" noise that rain makes when it hits the barn's metal roof. In a barn metal roofing applications, the metal roof is installed without a solid roof deck, so there is no dampening effect when something contacts the barn's metal roof. In residential applications, metal roofing is installed on a solid plywood deck, just like roofing shingles. When installed in this manner, metal roofing is no noisier than other roof materials.

Will a metal roof rust?

Union's premium metal roofing products utilize high strength Metal Construction Association (MCA) certified steel that's protected by an aluminum, zinc, and silicon anti-corrosion coating, commercially known as Galvalume®. The corrosion resistance of our steel roof is so outstanding, even our unpainted metal roof panels carry a 30 year limited warranty. We use this same high performance steel with our 40 Year and Lifetime series paint systems, giving you the highest level of corrosion resistant roofing you can get in the metal roofing industry.

Beware of metal roofing that is not Metal Construction Association certified as these metal roofs could be constructed with inferior steel and paint systems. Many metal roofing contractors and companies will advertise a paint warranty, but the underlying metal will not be warranted against corrosion. Be sure to ask about base metal warranties before you buy.

Does a metal roof attract lightning?

A metal roof has no greater chance of being hit by lightning than any other type of roof. Lightning typical targets the highest point in a given area, regardless of material. In the event that your roof is struck by lightning, a metal roof can actually help prevent damage by dissipating the electrical charge. Also, a metal roof is non-combustible.

How much does a metal roof cost?

Metal roofing prices: how much do metal roofs cost? As with most roofing cost and pricing estimates, installation cost is a large percentage of the total metal roof cost, and this metal roofing cost varies widely depending on your specific geographic area and the complexity of your metal roof. Depending on the metal roof purchased and your metal roof contractor, the total installed metal roofing cost could vary from $125 to $1100 per square. A square is equal to 100 square feet and is the measurement that is used to determine the size of your roof coverage area for quoting metal roofing prices. Since metal is a premium upgrade, you can expect metal roofing prices to cost more up-front than the price of a quality asphalt shingle roof. However, over the life of the roof, a metal roof can save you over 60% in total installation and maintenance costs. To make an informed decision, make sure your metal roof dealer or contractor quotes the prices and the costs of the full range of metal roofing paint grades and gauges available. Stepping up to a premium grade typically adds very little to the overall metal roofing price since the installation cost is such a large component of the metal roofing cost. In many cases, a few hundred dollars of metal roofing installation cost can mean the difference between getting an unwarranted low-end grade or a premium grade metal roof with a Lifetime transferable warranty.

Will I have to remove my existing roof?

Because metal roofing is so lightweight relative to its strength, metal roofs can usually be installed over existing roof materials. Metal roofing costs may not include as much labor costs as asphalt roofs. It's very common for metal roofs to be installed directly on top of asphalt shingled roofs. This saves on labor costs and disposal cost for stripping the old roof, not to mention reducing landfill waste. Local building codes and the condition of your current roof's substructure will ultimately determine if you can install your metal roof in this manner and save on metal roofing costs.

What does “29 gauge, 26 gauge, and 24 gauge” metal roofing mean?

The 29 gauge metal, 26 gauge metal, and 24 gauge metal roofing is a measurement of the thickness of the metal, but it's important to remember that the metal increases in thickness as the metal gauge numbers decrease. Union offers several metal gauge options for metal roofing. Listed in order from thinnest gauge to thickest heavy gauge metal roofing, they are:
Utility metal roofing
Econ 29 gauge metal roofing
29 gauge metal roofing
26 gauge metal roofing
24 gauge metal roofing

It's important to note that 29 gauge metal roofing is the thinnest metal recommended for residential applications. Heavy gauge metal roofing, like our heavy duty 24 gauge metal roofing, is recommended for those areas with severe weather, high winds, or hail.

 

Residential Metal Roofing

Residential

Post-Frame/AGRICULTURAL Metal Roofing

Commercial / Industrial Metal Roofing

Commercial