Choose Standing Seam Roofs

When designing a steel building, it’s important to choose standing seam metal roofs for support.  Years ago, we only knew of asphalt and composition shingles which can have some advantages.  Asphalt and shingles tend to be cheaper in price and if you’re looking for a cheap roofing material, this would be the one.  The only thing with these roofing systems is that are created from petroleum which means the price of shingles will vary.  The other con to keep in mind is if you have every cleaned out your gutters and/or downspouts you will notice that shingles have a propensity to slough off the upper mineral-based surface.  Over time, the shingles will literally be worn down to their core and you may need to replace them.

On the other hand, standing seam metal roofs are totally different. The material, size, shape and installation are completely different from shingle roofing.  Although, this roofing material is much more expensive, most building owners find that it is worth it in the long run. 

When researching about standing seam metal roofing, you must keep in mind that standing seam is a particular type of metal roofing. Not all are created equal.  If you’re wondering what the term “standing seam” means, think of a home in your neighbourhood with metal roofs, well they are of standing seam variety.  The panels run from the ridge of the roof all the way down to the eaves. Between those panels are other seams that are connected by something called fasteners which are raised above the level of the metal roof.  This is where the term “standing seam” comes from.

Now that you are familiar with standing seam roofs, let’s talk about seam fasteners.  Seam fasteners are anywhere from 0.5” to 1.5” high. The reason for this is because fasteners are concealed. The only thing you will see from them is a smooth continuous ridge that extends from the top to bottom.

If you’re wondering about standing seam roofing and what some of the advantages are, read below.  One major advantage of standing seam roofs is that seams which are the weak point in any roof will not allow for moisture, because it is raised above the level of the roofing panel. Also the roofing system requires far less number of seams due to the fact that the panels run from top to the bottom and not horizontal.  The other thing about metal that you probably already know is that is a tough material.  The last thing is because of the sleek lines, the roofs give any home an industrial feeling that contributes a modern look.  If you’re thinking of rigid or rippled roofs, keep in mind that these are not the same thing.  They have since been improved and look much nicer now.