Roofing technology has come a long way over the years and it continues to evolve. Today, roofing materials are stronger, more durable, and more aesthetically pleasing than ever before. If you’re looking to replace your roof, you might want to consider a standing seam metal roof.
Metals are gaining popularity in the roofing industry as a stronger, long-lasting roofing material and are competing with the ever-popular asphalt shingles. When we talk about different styles of metal roofs, standing seam systems are at the top. However, as a homeowner you may not be aware of its different characteristics. This is what we will be talking about today.
A standing seam metal roof is one of the most tough and sturdy roofing types, more so than its competitor: corrugated metal roofs. With proper installation, these roofs can last for more than 50 years! So if you are in the market for a roof replacement and are considering a standing seam metal roof, by the end of this blog post you will have everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
What Is A Standing Seam Metal Roof?
A standing seam metal roof is a unique style that has made rapid strides in the industry. It’s a type of metal roof that uses a series of overlapping panels to cover the roof. They feature raised seams that run vertically along the panels.
The most distinguishing feature, other than the vertical seams, is how it is attached to your roof. The panels are held together by fasteners that are not visible due to the overlapping seams. This hidden fastening mechanism makes this system extremely durable and distinguishable from corrugated roof panels, another popular metal roofing style.
These roofs are known for their distinct appearance and superior longevity. We cover more of their advantages in the next section!
Pros of Standing Seam Metal Roofs
When researching what material you should install on your roof, it is important to know about its pros and cons. Let’s first start with how this roofing material can improve your home.
Long-Lasting Choice
Standing seam roofs have long lifespans. They fare well against the harshest of weather conditions. This makes it an excellent choice for if you are a homeowner in Western New York, where weather conditions such as rain, wind, snow, and hail are common.
Durability At Its Peak
One of the main characteristics you should look for in a roofing material is its durability. A standing seam metal roof is a robust option.
Here are some of its striking characteristics:
- Metal panels show incredible resistance against fire, so you can have peace of mind in case of electrical failure or a natural disaster.
- Thanks to the hidden fastener system, standing seam roofs have a watertight design. This means there is a lower probability of roof leaks.
- Metals used in standing seam, such as aluminum and stainless steel, are rust-resistant and pest-resistant.
Environment-Friendly Roofing Material
A standing seam metal roofing system will not only protect your home but will also contribute to sustainability. Environmental concerns are on the rise and wasting resources is no longer a viable option. This is where metal roofs shine. As they last for decades, you will need fewer repairs and replacements. And even after their life expectancy, these roofing panels can be recycled and used to create new metal products, such as siding or even another roof.
Looks Beautiful On Your Roof
We all know how important curb appeal is for many homeowners and the role your roof plays in it. If you are a homeowner who wants not only the most robust and best-looking roof for your home, then a standing seam metal roof will not disappoint.
The raised seam panels bring out the best in your roof, giving it a distinctive appearance. Also, it is available in a variety of color options, and manufacturers are adding more and more choices. You can easily paint a standing seam metal roof to match your home’s exterior design. And, recoating this roof to maintain its appearance over time is a breeze.
Cons of Standing Seam Metal Roofs:
With a host of advantages to offer, there are some areas where this option doesn’t shine as bright. Here are some limitations involved in installing a standing seam metal roof.
Initial Cost
Metals roofing systems generally cost more than other traditional roofing materials. Amongst the types of metal roofs, standing seam is one of the costliest. These roofs tend to have a higher upfront cost due to their installation complexities and vertical seam panels. However, the long-term durability and energy savings may offset this initial investment over time.
Installation Complexity
Proper installation of a standing seam metal roof requires skilled professionals and specialized equipment. For this project, you will require skilled labor with experience working with metal roofing installations. The roofers must be familiar with the unique techniques and best practices for handling the metal panels. Improper installation can lead to issues such as leaks or premature wear and tear, ultimately costing you more in the future.
How Much Does A Standing Seam Metal Roof Cost?
As we covered in the section above, a standing seam metal roof can be a bit expensive. In this section, we will talk about how much you can expect to pay if you replace your roof.
The current national average cost of installing a standing seam metal roof is around $28,000. If we estimate the roof size is 2,000-square feet, the overall cost of installation can range anywhere from $22,000 to $40,000. This price can increase even more if you decide to install a premium metal such as a copper standing seam roof.
However this is a general estimate. The total amount you pay will depend on the following factors:
- Size of your roof
- The labor costs in the area
- The type of metal you choose
- Complexity of your roofing system
- Roofing contractor you hire
To know more, visit our blog post: How Much Does A Standing Seam Metal Roof Cost? (2024)
Standing Seam Installation Techniques and Types of Panels
A major characteristic of metal roofs is that its installation is usually complex and more difficult than your standard roof shingles. As a homeowner, learning about the types of panels and how they will be installed will enable you to communicate effectively with roofing contractors, ask informed questions, and ensure that the installation is done correctly. There are multiple installation techniques and types of panels available for these metal roofs.
Snap-Lock Roof Panel
This type of panel profile is the one of the easiest to install. The panels have edges that interlock with each other. These attach together through a series of fasteners. Repairing or replacing a snap-lock system is a straightforward process. Roofers can effortlessly unlock individual panels and perform the necessary repairs or even replace a section.
Mechanical Seam
Standing seam panels also come in a mechanical fastening option. The panels need to be sealed with a hand seamer after the panels are attached. Although this could potentially raise labor expenses, the ultimate outcome is a more tightly sealed and durable construction.
Nail Strip Panels
This type of panel and fastening technique is similar to snap-lock, though unlike those systems, these panels do not incorporate clips and are best suited for roof pitches exceeding 4/12. As the name suggests, these panels come with built in nailing strips and are fastened directly to the roof deck.
Apart from the decking, it is also crucial to use a suitable heat, ice, and water shield underneath the standing seam panels.
Best Standing Seam Roof Manufacturers (2024)
Until now we have covered all the major aspects you need to know before choosing this option for your roof. Now, we will be talking about the best companies that manufacture standing seam metal roofing panels. Knowing about the top names will help you choose top quality products for your home.
McElroy Metal
Let us start with one of the oldest metal roofing manufacturers. Founded in 1963, McElroy Metal has evolved from modest origins to become a nationwide entity with an extensive presence. From a single store to over 14 manufacturing facilities spread across the United States, McElroy Metal is a leading name in the industry.
Standing seam systems are one of their most popular products. They offer five different types of standing seam options, all known for their flexibility to be curved on-site. This feature not only reduces transportation costs but also ensures a precise and proper fit for every project. Their standing seam product lines include Maxima, Meridian, and Mirage II.
Western State Metal Roofing
This is a distinguished, family-owned and operated enterprise renowned for its top-quality standing seam as well as corrugated metal roof panels and wall panel systems. They are a leading provider and manufacturer in the industry.
Western States Metal Roofing offers three types of standing seam roofing panels, including mechanically fastened and seam lock, ensuring versatility and reliability for various roofing needs. To enhance efficiency and convenience, they now provide pre-notched standing seam panels, saving time and potentially reducing labor costs. With a wide selection of over 100 colors to choose from, you get endless possibilities for customizing your roof.
Install A Premier Standing Seam Metal Roof With WNY’s Most Trusted Roofers
If you want to install durable metal roofing systems, including standing seam panels, trust the team at OConnor Contracting. With years of experience, we’ve helped countless homeowners in Western New York enhance their home exteriors with smart and safe upgrades. We partner exclusively with leading manufacturers and specialists in the industry to ensure top-notch quality.
Our dedicated team combines skill and creativity to deliver exceptional roof designs tailored to your needs. If you’re interested in exploring our standing seam metal roofing services, feel free to reach out to us at (716) 600-7663.
