So you’ve decided to purchase a steel building. Perhaps it will be something large, like a metal storage warehouse, or small, like a prefab steel home with insulated metal panels. Either way, you’ll need to roof it, so it’s vital to have a good sense of your options. Let’s take a look at what, for the highly knowledgeable team at Allied Steel, are without a doubt the four best kinds of roofing materials for metal buildings.
Aluminum Roofing
Aluminum is one of the most prominent and popular metals in the world. The third most abundant metal on Earth makes a great material for roofing metal and steel buildings, especially for projects in environments that are particularly harsh due to salt, weather, and water damage potential. Aluminum can be insulated, coated, and designed in nearly limitless ways to provide fresh, modern looks. Not only does aluminum stand up to extremely harsh weather conditions, but it’s one of the most sustainable and energy-efficient metals in the world, making it a go-to roofing choice for most structures.
Zinc Roofing
Though slightly more expensive than aluminum, zinc has become a very popular metal for roofing and has a history of use that spans over 150 years. Zinc enjoys many of the same advantages of aluminum, such as extreme corrosion, rust, mold and rot resistance, and recyclability. Zinc is one of the most lightweight building materials available on the market, making it incredibly cost-effective to transport and install. What’s more, because zinc alloy increases the ductility and malleability of metal without affecting its durability, it has become a favorite of modern architects worldwide who want strength and style combined at their peaks.
Copper Roofing
For many, copper roofing is considered to have the best curb appeal of any roofing material in the world. And for good reasons. It’s brilliant sheen and resale value alone makes it a great choice. But that’s not all copper has to offer. Copper roofing is highly resistant to hail, fire, and water damage, and has been known to last 50 years or more, maintenance-free. It is easy to transport, install, and poses little risk toward the structural integrity of the building frame, due to its notably lightweight makeup.
Copper is also great at reflecting light, which can help to control heating and cooling costs within your building. The simple fact that copper roofs have their genesis dated back to the Roman Empire and that they are still used today should tell you all you need to know about their desirability and dependability through history.
Stainless Steel Roofs
The final material on our list is one of our favorites. Stainless steel has been used in roofing for decades. It boasts a durability that even zinc and copper would be jealous of, with the capacity to withstand corrosion and degradation for 60+ years, and an unmatched resilience in the face of severe weather.
Another reason stainless steel is a great option for locations with extreme climates is because of its low thermal expansion properties, meaning the metal won’t expand or contract due to temperature fluctuations. Steel can be made into insulated roof panels and is easily shaped and finished into a variety of designs and colors, making it perfect for needs both utilitarian and artistic. To top it off, steel is energy-efficient and is one of the most recyclable building materials in the world.
Allied Has the Right Steel Roofing Options for You
To learn more about roofing options for steel buildings, contact Allied Steel Buildings at 1 (877) 997-8335. As the leading provider of steel buildings of all forms and functions, our expertly crafted, pre-designed steel structures and unparalleled relationships with construction and design firms can help you find the exact structure you need to suit your needs.