If you've decided to change from shingles to a metal roof so you'll have roofing that lasts a long time and is tough, you'll probably have a lot of questions for your contractor. Metal roofing is a lot different from asphalt shingles, and there may be some misconceptions you have or some questions you want answered.
Metal roofing contractors like Alliance Exteriors can provide you with all the information you need and explain the installation process to you for your peace of mind. Here are three questions you may want to ask.
1. Is A Metal Roof Dangerous Or Loud?
Two myths about metal roofing are that the roof is loud when it rains and that metal attracts lightning so it's dangerous. Your home should have enough insulation in the attic so the noise is muffled when it rains. A metal roof shouldn't be any louder than any other type of roofing.
Metal roofing doesn't attract lightning. If your roof happens to be struck by lightning, the metal may even offer a little protection against fire since it isn't flammable. Metal doesn't offer any dangers to your home, but it can provide superior protection against threats such as wind, hail, insects, and fire.
2. Can A Metal Roof Cover Old Shingles?
Metal roof panels are light, so your roofer can install them right over your old roof if your contractor agrees it's a good idea. However, metal roofing contractors don't always think it's appropriate to do that.
If the deck of your roof has water damage and needs to be replaced, then all the old shingles have to come off too. Your roofer only puts a metal roof over old shingles if your old roof is still in good enough shape that the lifespan of your new metal roof won't be shortened.
3. Can Metal Roofs Leak?
It may seem like something made from metal would never leak. While there may not be as many problems with leaks in metal roofing as with shingle roofing, it's still possible for leaks to occur. Leaks might happen in areas where the coating on the roof has been scratched.
When an area that doesn't have coating intact gets wet, rust might develop over time. Rust eats holes through metal, so if that ever happens, your roof could leak. That's why you need regular roof inspections, no matter what type of roof you have. Metal roofs leaks can also happen along the seams sometimes if the fasteners pop out. Metal roofing contractors are careful about how fasteners are installed to prevent this from happening.
Very few roofers would say their job is easy. In fact, many describe the work as downright tough! But that does not mean that roofers do not enjoy or value the work that they do. Many workers get satisfaction from working with their hands, and they really enjoy creating a roof from simple materials. They also like the logistical challenges, such as figuring out how to get shingles up on a tall roof, or how to most safely repair a damage gutter. If you'd like to learn more about roofing as a profession, then you've arrived at the right blog.