Flat roofs are not limited to commercial buildings anymore. As more and more homeowners are opting for modern-style homes, flat roofs are finding their way into many forms of residential architecture.
The choices in roofing materials for both pitched and flat roofing systems are quite different. For example, the most popular pitched roofing material, shingles, can’t be installed on flat roofs. However, metal is the one material that seems to be adaptable to both, which is why we’ll address whether or not metal is a good option for flat roofing systems in this blog post.
What Exactly Is A Flat Metal Roof?
A flat metal roof isn’t perfectly flat. It usually has a slight slope to allow water to drain from it properly, and it’s usually made from metal like aluminum, steel, or copper. Homeowners like them for their modern, industrial look, and the fact that they’re incredibly durable.
Why Choose Metal For A Flat Roof?
When it comes to flat roofs, not every material offers the same results. Shingles and tiles, for example, aren’t ideal for flat surfaces. Why? Because they’re designed to be installed on pitched roofs where water can easily roll off. On a flat roof, where water tends to pool, shingles and tiles easily allow water to seep through, leading to leaks and damage. That’s why most experts don’t recommend using traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles or clay tiles for flat roofs—they simply aren’t built for it.
But with metal roofs, the case is different. For example, metal panels, such as standing seam options have hidden fastener systems that leave no room for water to seep through.
However, there are some restrictions to keep in mind when it comes to utilizing metal for a flat roof. Flat roofs don’t drain as well as sloped ones, so if you choose metal, you need to make sure it’s installed with a slight slope and ensure a quality drainage system is in place. Otherwise, you could end up with pooling water, which causes corrosion or leaks over time. The good news is that with the right method of installation, metal can provide an equally durable option compared to other flat roofing materials.
Advantages Of A Flat Metal Roofing System
Here are some reasons why metal is one of the best options for your flat roof replacement or installation:
Flat Metal Roofs Are Highly Durable
One of the biggest reasons home and building owners love metal roofs is that they last longer than other flat roofing options such as TPO. A metal roof can easily last 40 to 70 years, which is really impressive, especially if you take into consideration other popular flat roofing materials which only last for about 30 to 40 years.
Metal tends to be able to withstand the extreme weather that’s prevalent in Wisconsin, like high winds, heavy rains, and snow, without cracking, warping, or peeling. And unlike wood or shingles, metal won’t become damaged by pests such as termites.
Metal Boosts Energy Efficiency
Flat metal roofs can actually help you save money on your energy bills. Metals like aluminum and steel reflect sunlight, reducing the amount of heat your building absorbs during hot weather. This means your home will stay cooler, and you’ll spend less on air conditioning during those summer months.
There’s also the option to use flat roof coatings, and when paired with proper insulation, you’ve got a roof that will efficiently work to keep your home comfortable.
A Low Maintenance Option
If you don’t want to spend time or money constantly repairing your roof, a metal roof could be a great option. Metal roofing systems require very little maintenance compared to other roofing materials. You might need to clear off some debris or clean out gutters once in a while, but overall, you won’t need to deal with cracks, leaks, or algae growth that you’d typically get with other residential roofing materials.
Eco-Friendly
Many metal roofs are made from recycled materials, and they’re fully recyclable when their lifespan ends (although that’s a long time down the road). Choosing a metal roof can reduce waste and lower your home’s carbon footprint. Plus, metal roofs reflect heat, allowing them to lower your energy consumption, which makes your home more environmentally friendly.
The Limitations Of Installing A Flat Metal Roof
You should now be more aware of the outstanding characteristics that metal roofs have, but are there any downsides to installing one? Here is some of the cons of choosing a flat metal roof for your home:
Metal Roofs Cost More Than Other Flat Roofing Materials
The biggest downside to metal roofs is the upfront cost. They’re more expensive than traditional flat roofing materials such as TPO. But while the initial price tag might be higher, you have to consider the long-term. A metal roof will likely last two or three times longer than other flat roofing materials, meaning you won’t have to replace it as often. Plus, the savings you’ll have related to energy use will offset some of the upfront costs over time.
Flat Metal Roofs Require Installation Expertise
Not every roofer has experience installing metal roofs, especially on flat slopes. Metal roofing requires specialized skills, and poor installation can lead to leaks or other issues down the road. If you decide on a flat metal roof, make sure you hire a contractor who knows what they’re doing. A bad installation can ruin all the benefits you’re trying to receive from your metal roof.
Also Read: Tips For Hiring A Professional Roofing Contractor
Flat Roof Drainage Issues
One of the biggest concerns with flat roofs is water drainage. Since flat roofs don’t naturally shed water like sloped roofs, you need to make sure there’s a proper drainage system in place. Even with metal, pooling water can lead to corrosion or leaks over time. Most homeowners solve this problem by having a slight slope built into their flat roofs or by installing additional drainage systems like scuppers or internal drains.
Code Requirements For Installing A Flat Metal Roof
There are two popular types of metal roofing systems: corrugated and standing seam metal roofs. Regardless of which one is used for your flat roofing system, both types must not be installed with a slope smaller than 3:12. If the slope is lower, you may end up needing to make repairs early on in the roof’s lifespan.
One of the ways to ensure a subtle but accurate slope is to utilize a tapered insulation system to increase the pitch artificially. This can add to the overall cost of your project, but it ensures the roof functions properly.
Get The Benefits Of A Flat Metal Roofing System Today!
So, is a flat metal roof right for your home? It depends on your needs. If you value durability, low maintenance, and energy efficiency, a flat metal roof could be a great investment. But you’ll need to be ready for the higher upfront cost and make sure you have proper drainage in place to avoid water problems.
At Prestige Roofing we ensure that your flat roofing project is done right. We have a team of experienced professionals with a great reputation in Northeastern Wisconsin. Contact us today at (920) 791-0414 to learn more about how we can help you.