What Gauge of Metal Roofing Should I Choose for my Home?

Over seventy percent of all homes in the US are roofed with asphalt shingles, but more and more homeowners are choosing to install metal roofing because its durability, cost options, aesthetics, and longevity.

Metal roofs are offered in three different styles which are: panels, standing-seams, and metal roofing that mimics wood shingles, slate, and asphalt shingles. They come in a variety of colors and finishes. Asphalt shingles have warranties for twenty to twenty-five years whereas metal warranties range from thirty to fifty years.

Most metal roofing products have a Class A fire rating which allows insurance companies to offers their homeowners up to a thirty percent discount. Because of their insulation qualities they are also great for reducing heating and air conditioning bills.

Metal Roofing Appeal

Both homeowners and roofing contractors find metal roofing appealing because it is easy to install and environmentally friendly. Though metal roofing is higher in cost than asphalt shingles many homeowners find that it costs them less in the long run. So there is no wonder why so many homeowners are opting for metal roofing when they call their contractor. Top Notch Roofing is installing a lot of metal roofing in Cabot, Arkansas.

Now if you have been persuaded to go with metal roofing one of the main questions you will want to ask yourself is what gauge metal roofing product should I choose for my home. Metal roofing manufacturers here in America measure the strength of their metal panels for residential homes by their gauge, which commonly range from a 29 gauge, which is the thinnest, to a 22 gauge which is the thickest. You will want be aware that the thicker the gauge of panel is, the more that it will cost.

How Much Does Metal Roofing Cost?

How much a metal roof will cost you will also depend on the type of material is used to manufacture the product. For instance the price of metal roofing will vary depending on whether you choose aluminum, zinc, steel, or copper. The thickness may be the same in all three but the type of metal used can make a big difference in cost.

When it comes to determining the best gauge of metal roofing for your home there are a few factors to consider. One factor is your geographical location. The weather plays a large role in what type of metal roofing is best for your home. Heavier gauge metal such as 22 to 24 gauge is used for both residential and commercial structures.

This thicker gauge roofing metal is great in areas where there are high winds and extreme weather conditions. It also works great in cold regions for supporting snow build-up on roofs, or in areas where there are fire hazards.

26 and 29 gauge metal roofing is also great in areas that have high winds and extreme weather conditions and is less expensive than the heavier gauge material. 29 gauge roofing material is the thinnest of the gauged roofing products. The 29 gauge is the most commonly used metal product in the US and is also the least expensive.

You make the choice which is right for you.

 

 

 

 

Roofing Water Damage

Water Damage around Windows

Have you checked the windows around your home lately?

Are you finding water or traces of water in the window sills? There may be a number of reasons that you do. You may have water seeping inside after a rainfall. Or even condensation may be a culprit. Depending on the region of the country you live in it may also be high levels of humidity. No matter what the cause, you don’t want the problem to persist.

One of the main factors these window problems should be addressed is “MOLD.” No one wants to deal with mold when it gets out of control. The growth of mold in any part of the home is unhealthy and should eliminated as quickly as possible. Mold and mildew grows easily where there is moisture. Especially where there should be no moisture… such as around windows.

If you have a dormer on your roof with windows, you may want to have an experienced roofing contractor check the flashing for you.

Moister unchecked in and around windows can cause a real headache once it damages the drywall and wood trim and window sill. The only sure way to address the problem properly is to remove the trim, drywall, and window sill and replace them. During replacing these items the surfaces they were attached to surrounding them should be checked as well. This will determine if there is any interior structure damage. Be sure to check 2X4’s for rotting and mold.

Roofing Windows Mold

Water damage around windows often occur because the caulk around the exterior of the window has cracked or pulled away from the surface that it was attached to allowing water to seep in. This old caulk should be cut out and new caulk applied carefully to make sure in is sealed adequately. Glazing putty if it is cracked can also allow water into the interior of your home. Condensation can form inside double paned windows that can leak down and settle on the window sill. Often the window itself must be replaced. A professional window company may need to be called if it something outside your ability to address.

Weatherstripping that has gotten old and worn may need to be replaced. Usually replacing weatherstripping is an easy fix if you determine that is the problem. Whereas window replacement or having to tear into the interior structure may call for professional attention. Many of the problems that pertain to window damage can be assessed by common sense observation.

The sill at the bottom of the window from should be pitched downward in order to drain water toward the exterior. This prevents water from pooling on the window sill and seeping into the interior of the house. Simply put, you want to keep the water outside and the inside dry.

The important thing to remember is you can save yourself worry and money if you take the time to address a window problem as soon as you notice it. Every few months it is wise to walk around your home and check to see if a window problem has begun. Addressing it as soon as you notice it can save you money on the damage you can see, and what you cannot see hidden underneath.