Why Are Standing Seam Metal Roofs Called “Cool Roofs?”

Many of our customers have contracted new roofs in the past for the simple reason that they really had no other choice. Having to litter your home or business with dozens of buckets to catch water every time it rains is not only annoying, but it also leads to more expensive water damage on the interior and other issues such as mold growth. When you do have a standing seam metal roof installation done, the benefits are further reaching than just necessity.

First of all, the longevity of metal roof flashing installation and standing seam panels offers value in itself. You might be replacing an asphalt shingle roof 2-3 times during the course of your property ownership when you consider they only last 10-15 years. The standing seam roofs have a 40-50 year life span if not longer which really lowers the cost in terms of annual price. Perhaps the best attribute of having the metal roof installed (besides an increase in aesthetics) is the fact that they are energy efficient. Here's exactly why these products are known as 'cool roofs' in the industry:

Metal Roofs Can Be Painted

One of the best things about metal roof flashing installation is that the items can be painted. This not only allows for an easy way to change the color and contrast of your property every few years, but it also attributes to energy efficiency. If you paint the standing seam metal roof panels a lighter color they will absorb less solar heat. The less warmth your attic absorbs, the cooler your home will be and thus the AC will not have to run as often in the Summer.

Metal Roof Materials

The most common type of metal used in standing seam metal roofing installation is galvanized steel. Aluminum can be substituted for more corrosion resistance (at the risk of being not as durable) and alloys such as galvalume are also common in the industry. Regardless of the actual 'metal' used in the manufacturing all of these types of panels will reflect the sun's rays instead of collecting the heat and transferring it to the attic.

The Product Is Also Beneficial In the Winter

It makes sense to consider that snow and ice would collect on an asphalt shingle roof in the Winter, especially if the pitch isn't that steep. This not only adds an incredible amount of weight for the home's structure to support but having that snow barrier surely has to lower the temperature inside the house. Metal roofs are 'slicker' so that snow has a harder time collecting on the panels. The standing seam metal roofing installation is also lighter than asphalt or clay tiles so if the snow and ice does stick the overall weight on your framing and foundation is still lighter. It's been documented that a standing seam metal roofing installation can lower your home's energy bills by up to 40%. The product is called a 'cool roof' mostly for the benefits that it can provide in the Summer. We've also seen that it is a wise investment for keeping heating costs down in the Winter as well. Here in Chicago we get the best of both worlds in terms of seasons so maybe it's time to start looking for a metal roof replacement.