Zinc roofing is an economical and durable option for homeowners who want to increase the value of their homes. It is a metal roof that is made up of a zinc alloy. The material has a long lifespan, ranging from 50 to 100 years.
The zinc alloy protects from the sun’s ultraviolet rays and offers fire protection. With these benefits, it becomes clear that zinc roofing is an essential investment for any homeowner.
What is Zinc Roofing?
Zinc roofing is a metal sheet that covers a roof. Zinc can last up to 100 years when it is used in roofing. It can even last longer when applied as a wall system. You may also find it in some industrial equipment. The metal sheets are galvanized or coated with zinc and paint to protect them from the elements.
Zinc Roofing offers a variety of benefits to homeowners, and the most obvious one is that it protects your home from UV exposure and heat and keeps your home cool. It also reduces energy costs by keeping temperatures cool during the summer.
There are other benefits, such as allowing rainwater to flow off rather than sitting on top due to its reflective quality, protecting your house from rot, preventing rusting, blistering, and locking out moisture which can lead to mold.
It delivers a long-lasting roof that will not rot, corrode, or rust. Zinc roofing is also an excellent choice for coastal regions due to the anti-corrosive nature of zinc.
How to Install Zinc Roofs?
The Installation of zinc roofing is a bit different than the traditional asphalt shingle. The difference lies in the thickness, which is much thinner than the conventional asphalt shingle.
It is important to note that the thickness of zinc roofing is 1/8 inch compared to 1/4 inch for traditional asphalt shingles. The thinner thickness means it can be installed over existing materials, such as concrete or metal decks. This feature makes it simpler to install and conditionally affordable overall.
The first step in installing zinc roofing is determining how much material you should order for your project. It depends on the total area of the roof in square feet you need to cover, how many valleys or peaks you want to cover, and other factors such as wind and sun exposure.
Be considerate about whether you want valleys or peaks on your roof. These are small areas cut out of the top of the roof where water can drain away from your home when it rains. But they can also collect snow during the wintertime if there isn’t enough space between them and your home’s exterior walls
Facts About Zinc Roofing
Did you know that Zinc roofs are made from galvanized steel with a zinc coating on them? The coating protects the steel underneath from rusting and corrosion while providing a smooth surface that’s easy to clean.
Choose the Right Metal Roof
You first need to decide whether you want a metal roof or a tile roof. Metal roofs are more durable and less expensive than tile roofs. They also provide better thermal protection, which means they will keep your home cooler in hot weather and warmer in wintry weather.
The metal roofing has excellent longevity and can last many years without needing to be replaced. It makes a metal roof a superb investment. It can also be recycled, which is good for the environment. Metal roofs are fire resistant and do not need to be painted, so they will never peel or chip.
Before we discuss the distinct types of metal, know that installation costs depend on 1) the size of your roof and 2) the type of metal you choose to install.
Aluminum, copper, steel, and composite shingle roofs are popular options for homeowners looking for a new roof. Every roof type has unique advantages and disadvantages. We’ll take a look at each one below.
Aluminum Roofs vs Copper Roofs
Aluminum is the most prevalent metal roof in the United States, which makes sense because it is affordable and easy to work with compared to other metals. The main downside to an aluminum roof is that it can be pretty noisy when it rains or snows.
This is caused by aluminum being an excellent conductor of sound waves. So, when you hear a loud clap of thunder on your roof, it comes from inside your house!
Copper roofs are a combination of copper and zinc. They have an excellent reputation as an affordable metal option, but it’s not as durable or aesthetically pleasing as other options such as steel or composite shingles.
However, copper roofs are great if you’re looking for something durable but don’t have much money to spend on a new roofing system. They are also very fire-safe, which makes them an excellent choice if you have pets or children living in your home.
Steel Roofs vs Composite Shingle Roofs
You can install steel roofs on any home, but they require extra work during the Installation. Why? Because it needs to be cut into long pieces that are then welded together at their joints (see our guide). Copper is more difficult to install than steel because its joints are typically larger.
Composite shingles have a much lower lifetime cost than wood shingles because fewer layers are needed to build them up; however, they’re also harder. They are similar to tile shingles, except they’re made from durable materials such as fiberglass rather than ceramic tiles.
Composite shingles are the most popular type today because they offer better durability than other types while still looking nice enough for most residential areas (although they may not withstand heavy winds).
The Benefits of Installing a Metal Roof
The benefits of installing metal roofs are endless.
- It is one of the most durable materials for weathering storms and high winds.
- It is fire resistant and will not melt in elevated temperatures.
- It can be installed on any roofing material and
- It is energy efficient, saving money on your utility bills.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Zinc Roofing
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Impact-Resistant & Fire-Resistant
- Lower Maintenance required
- Durable in all climates
- Eco-Friendly and Energy Efficient
Cons:
- Difficult to repair
- Prone to leaks and water damage
- Much more expensive than asphalt shingles or wood shakes
Conclusion: Zinc Roofing is a Popular Choice Among Contractors
With zinc roofing, choosing a high-quality installation company when you make your purchase is essential if you want to ensure that your new Installation will last for years.
And this is where Statewide Roofing Experts come in.
We provide exemplary metal roofing services at competitive market rates. You can call us for roof repair, replacement, Installation, Maintenance, and inspection. Don’t worry, we have no extra or hidden charges; we want you to live happily under protection.
Are you looking to get an affordable estimate for your roof? Call us right now for a free quotation!
Is the Zinc Roof installation DIY-friendly?
Well, it depends on your knowledge and experience with roof installations. The Installation of zinc roofing needs to be done by a professional. Therefore, jumping to the DIY Installation may not be a clever idea. Also, know that the reasons for roof replacement or repair can vary. You’ve recently installed a zinc roof that requires little-to-no Maintenance. Or you want to prepare the surface with primer and paint.
Similarly, installing zinc roofing is not something the average person would know how to do. Therefore, calling in a roofing professional is always a decent idea.
History of Zinc Roofing
The use of zinc for roofing purposes dates back to the 1850s. It was first used in France as a protective coating for iron roofs and later in the United States. The zinc coating was applied to copper roofs and sometimes led roofs to protect them from oxidation. Thus, zinc has become one of the most common metal roofing materials in residential and commercial projects.