The Benefits of Metal Roofing for Your Business
Metal roofs offer a variety of benefits for businesses. Over time, these advantages can add enough value to the business to, in essence, pay for the roofs themselves. It’s critical business owners considering metal roofs do their homework before committing.
Here are some key advantages of metal roofs all business owners should consider when preparing to install a metal roofing system:
Longevity and Durability: Metal roofs, when properly installed and maintained, will have a long-life span with proper maintenance. Metal roofs are durable and weather resistant. And a roof resistant to the effects of weathering will likely require fewer repairs over the course of its life, saving your business money on replacements, repairs, and maintenance costs. A metal roof can shelter your business for decades.
Energy Efficiency: Since metal roofs reflect the sun’s heat instead of absorbing it, they often reduce energy costs between 10% - 25%. If your business operates in a region susceptible to intensely hot summers, a metal roof can keep your energy costs low.
Eco-Friendliness: Most metal roofing materials are 100% recyclable at the end of their life, reducing your carbon footprint. If your clients favor businesses that are eco-conscious, installing a metal roof can create an unexpected competitive advantage.
Fire Resistance: In regions prone to wildfires, a metal roof can provide protection against the elements. Industries where fire risk is a common risk can control their risk profile by installing a metal roof.
Low Weight: Many, but not all, metal roofs are made of lighter weight materials than their counterparts. This means they can be installed on existing roofs without the addition of a structural support system. These advantages often mean faster installation times and lower installation costs.
Versatility in Design: Metal roofs come in a variety of styles, colors, and finishes. This flexibility allows businesses to pick options that compliment their building's design and brand. A stylish metal roof can catch your customer’s eyes and add value to your property.
Potential Insurance Savings: Because metal roofs are known for their durability and fire resistant qualities, insurance companies sometimes offer lower premiums if a building has a metal roof.
While the upfront cost of a metal roof may be higher, the long-term benefits can offer significant savings and advantages for businesses. Birmingham Roofing and Sheet Metal is equipped to assess your roofing needs and provide a customized solution.
Installation is just the beginning. Maintaining a metal roof is crucial to ensure its longevity and performance.
We’ve summarized several best practices for metal roof maintenance that can help business owners protect their investment:
Regular Inspections: Conduct annual inspections of the metal roof to identify any issues like loose panels, damaged fasteners, or sealant failures. Inspect your roof after extreme weather events. Early detection of problems can prevent costly repairs down the line.
Keep It Clean: Remove debris, leaves, and branches that accumulate on the roof. These can retain moisture and potentially lead to rust or corrosion. If your region experiences heavy snowfall, use a snow removal tool designed for metal roofs to prevent damage.
Gutter and Downspout Maintenance: Ensure gutters and downspouts are cleared of debris to prevent water buildup. Water pooling can lead to rust and corrosion. Regularly cleaning the gutters prevents the formation of ice dams in climates with lower temperatures.
Minimize Foot Traffic: Walking on a metal roof can lead to dents. Limit foot traffic and use appropriate walking pads or boards to distribute weight evenly.
Repair Scratches and Coating Damage: If the metal roof has a coating, scratches or damages can expose the metal underneath to the elements, leading to corrosion. Apply touch-up paint or a similar coating material to these areas as recommended by the manufacturer.
Prevent Metal Corrosion: In coastal areas or places with high pollution, metal roofs may be more susceptible to corrosion. Choosing materials designed to withstand these conditions and applying protective coatings can help prevent corrosion.
Check for Sealant Failure: Over time, sealants used in metal roofing systems can fail. Regularly check and replace old or cracked sealants to ensure the roof remains watertight.
Professional Maintenance and Repairs: For any concerns that arise during inspections or if there's significant damage, it's important to hire professionals experienced in metal roofing. Birmingham Roofing and Sheet Metal can ensure repairs are done correctly and can offer advice on maintaining the roof based on its specific material and design.
Trim Overhanging Branches: Trim any branches that hang over the roof to reduce debris accumulation and prevent damage from falling limbs.
Following these best practices can help ensure that a metal roof remains in good condition, protecting the business beneath it for decades. Regular maintenance not only extends the life of the roof but also maintains its aesthetic appeal and functionality.
For over 100 years, Birmingham Roofing & Sheetmetal. has been a trusted name in commercial roofing. Our reputation for quality workmanship and exceptional service is well-known throughout the industry. We have successfully completed countless projects, ranging from small repairs to large-scale installations. Our commitment to excellence is evident in every job we undertake. Let us put a century of experience to work for your business’ roofing needs.