steel Articles

Rust: Steel Roofing Can Be Protected

August 7, 2019

Steel roofing can offer certain desirable attributes for some homes, and often at a lower price point. But how do you keep a ferrous metal like steel from rusting? 1. Protect cut edges 2. Buy the right quality of steel 3. Ensure that a steel roof is right for your environment Cut Edge Protection for… ( read more )

Metal Roofing Guage and Thickness Explained

December 31, 2015

A common question I receive from homeowners concerns what metal roofing guage they should purchase. While those who ask this are hoping for a simple answer such as “only purchase 26 gauge,” the answer is never nearly that simple. Below I will share my thoughts on what sort of metal thickness (or gauge) is best… ( read more )

Remove Roof Shingles Before Installing a Metal Roof?

March 26, 2015

I frequently am asked whether homeowners and contractors should remove roof shingles from a home’s roof before a new metal roof is installed. My answer often surprises people. However, it is based upon experience with tens of thousands of installations over many years. My Experience The vast majority of installations of the metal roofing systems… ( read more )

Metal Roofing Gauge

November 23, 2009

Q: I am looking at samples of several roofing products. Two of them claim to be 26 gauge, but they feel very different. One is clearly lighter than the other. Can I use a micrometer to test the thickness and figure out which one really is 26 gauge? Is there a chart that would tell… ( read more )

Finding a Metal Roofing Manufacturer

June 10, 2009

Q: I am very interested in having a steel roof installed on our home. We are looking at a local company that carries a manufacturer called Akzo Nobel. I did not see them listed in your manufacturers, so I was wondering if their products are any good? It says they offer a 40 year paint… ( read more )

Metal Roofing and Saltwater

June 9, 2009

Q: I have a waterfront house on the gulf in Florida. I need a new roof I was thinking about a metal roof but with the saltwater close by would this be a mistake? A: Many of today’s residential metal roofs have coatings that help tremendously with corrosion resistance. This is done with zinc and… ( read more )