What Are the Advantages of Buying a Metal Roof in Canada?

Things to Know Before Choosing a Metal Roof

There are two primary metal roof types that you should know about before we dive deeper:

1. Standing seam panel roofing: This type of roofing has raised ribs every 6-12 inches to connect the panels and creates a classical metal look. You can often find this type of roofing in classical architecture or remote cabins. Standing seam metal roof Canada has become quite common due to its design and utility.
2. Metal shingle-style roofing: Designed to mimic traditional shingles, this type of roofing can look like slate, wood shakes, or tile. This type of roofing gives you more flexibility in the design. Aluminum shingles Canada are the most popular material for shingle-style roofing.

Other types of metal roofing exist, such as copper, but the above two types are the most common. Most metal roofing Canada is constructed from steel or aluminum, however, specific alloys and copper are available at a higher price point. Regardless of the type you select, it’s vital that the material has a zinc layer to prevent rust.

Durable and Long Lasting

Regardless of whether you opt for aluminum or steel roofing Canada, you’re going to have an incredibly durable roof. However, it’s crucial that the roof is installed by qualified professionals; this is not a great DIY project. 

A properly installed metal roof Canada will seal water, wick away snow, and survive powerful winds. It’s also resistant to mildew, insects, rot, and fire. Most metal roofing suppliers are so confident that they provide a long warranty that can reach up to 30 years.

Environmentally Friendly

All metal roof types Canada are environmentally friendly since they are 100% recyclable and are manufactured with approximately 25% recycled material. Additionally, opting for a metal roof Canada is advantageous over asphalt roofing that contains gallons of crude oil and needs to be replaced much more frequently.

Energy Efficient

Both of the popular roof types reflect radiant heat better than other types of roofing. This means your HVAC system won’t have to work as hard to cool down your home, reducing your energy bills.

Metal Roofing Canada is Lightweight

A metal roof  is much lighter than you might expect. Aluminum shingles only weigh 45 pounds per 100 square feet, steel shingles weigh 80 pounds, while steel standing seam roofs weigh 120-150 pounds. 

Comparatively, asphalt or fiberglass shingles weigh 275-325 pounds per 100 square feet, with wood shingles weighing 300-400 pounds, and slate reaching 900-1,200 pounds. 

Well-constructed houses can handle the weight of any material, but as the house ages, the weight of the roof matters more and more. A lightweight metal roof puts less stress on the house than alternative roofing materials.

Roof Cleaning for Metal Roofs

Metal roof cleaning is incredibly straightforward. Provided you can climb on the roof safely, all that’s required is a ¼ cup of detergent, such as dish soap or car washing soap. Then, use a sponge or soft bristle brush to cover the area and let it sit for 5-10 minutes. Finally, rinse it off with water and you’ve got a clean roof.

Metal Roofing Costs and Installation

Metal roofing prices in Canada will vary depending on the amount of zinc, the thickness of the material, the type of roof, and the chosen finishing paint. Common prices for metal roofing in Canada are:

• Economy tier metal roofing: $4.50 - $6.50 per square foot
• Steel roof sheets: $6.00 - $80 per square foot
• Aluminum panel roofing: $9.50 - $12-00 per square foot

Installation costs will vary based on multiple factors, such as:

• Type of metal roofing selected
• The metal roof coating selected
• The ease of access to the roof
• If underlayment is used
• Disposal costs of existing roofing
• The manpower costs

If we consider a 1,700 square foot home, the approximate installation costs are:

• Aluminum shingles: $12,800 - $22,000
• Steel shingles: $14,300 -  $22,500
• Standing seam roofing:  $13,000 - $25,000

Combined, you can expect to pay anywhere from $19,000 to $40,000 for a metal roof, and the costs can even reach $84,000 if you opt for copper.

Sorting Through Metal Roofing Suppliers

To make the most of steel Canada roofing, aluminum roofing, or copper alloy roofing, you need a quality supplier of the material. Here’s how to find the right supplier for you:

• They offer plenty of options
• They have great reviews from previous customers
• The materials include a zinc content of over 275 grams per square meter
• They offer a painting finish
• They have been in business for more than a few years

Working with a quality roof installer can help you pick the right supplier since they have likely worked with multiple suppliers.

The Bottom Line: Metal Roofs Are a Worthwhile Investment

Metal roofing brings numerous advantages over other types of roofing that have become increasingly popular throughout Canada. However, this is not a DIY project, and hiring the right installer will make or break your investment. You can’t afford to hire a contractor that cuts corners. 

Phoenix Metals is an experienced metal roofing installer in Canada that’s known for delivering quality results. 

Ready to upgrade to metal roofing? Contact us today to discuss your next project.