METAL ROOFING
Metal roofs have become much more popular recently due to the increased frequency of hurricanes and insurance companies shortening the life expectancy of traditional asphalt shingles.
Many of our clients ask:
Is a metal roof really that good?
There are two common types of metal roofs available locally:
Exposed Screw (5V Crimp or PBR) and Hidden Fastener (Standing Seam). The main difference is that exposed screw roofs have all or most of the hardware visible—this is the metal roofing with the iconic bolted-down look, featuring numerous screws arranged in a grid pattern across the roof. In contrast, hidden fastener roofs, often used in commercial applications, have a clean, sleek appearance with smooth panels and perfectly straight crimps running up the roof.
Exposed Screw Metal Roofs
Exposed screw roofs are more affordable and commonly found on residential properties. Some people love the character they bring, while others feel they resemble barn roofs. We appreciate exposed screw roofs for the value they offer our clients. They typically last nearly twice as long as shingle roofs and can be installed on various home types.
Additionally, they are highly modular and easy to repair. If a tree limb were to fall and damage a panel, replacing individual sections is relatively simple, further extending the practical lifespan of the roof.
Hidden Fastener (Standing Seam) Metal Roofs
A hidden fastener roof is the ultimate choice for those seeking a rock-solid roofing system that can withstand everything Florida’s climate throws at it. Although it comes at a premium price, a Standing Seam roof provides unmatched durability and peace of mind.
This type of roofing is screwed down and then bent and folded at critical areas, such as the edges and valleys—where wind forces are strongest. The panels are malleted and snapped onto each overlapping section, essentially locking the entire roof together.
When combined with heavier-gauge metal and more rigid seams, this roofing system offers superior performance in Florida’s challenging weather conditions.
The few drawbacks to consider are:
The panels are extremely difficult to separate if repairs are ever needed.
The surface can be slippery to walk on, which is important if you clean your gutters or perform maintenance.
It’s often a good idea to replace or remove gutters when installing this type of roof since modifying them afterward can be challenging for gutter contractors.
How Does Metal Compare to Other Common Roofs?
Compared to shingles, metal roofs:
Retain less heat, keeping your home cooler.
Offer superior wind resistance due to long, continuous panels being screwed down from top to bottom.
Are more resistant to impact.
Are less prone to accumulating leaves or algae.
Do not suffer from granule loss, which inevitably affects shingle roofs.
Compared to tiles, metal roofs:
Are significantly lighter.
Offer greater wind resistance.
Are more impact-resistant.
Are less prone to accumulating leaves or algae.
Require far less annual maintenance than tile roofs.
Metal Roofing - "The Roofer's Roof"
The Best Choice for Your Roof
Overall, a metal roof is superior to both tile and shingle roofs in nearly every way.
We like to call metal roofs “The Roofer’s Roof.”
Whether you choose a classic 5V Crimp or a modern Standing Seam panel, you can’t go wrong—especially when you have 2nd Gen Roofing installing it for you.