Roofing and Building Center

The Strengths of Sheet Metal Roofing

Posted on January 31, 2010 by Samuel Cheeseman

Sheet metal roofing has many advantages, especially when used in larger commercial, industrial and agricultural buildings. The National Roofing Contractors Association has noted that the usage of metal roofing has increased quite sharply in recent years. It is starting to be seen more often in smaller buildings and is frequently designed in a way that gives it the appearance of traditional roofing tiles. Metal roofing sheets are however produced for commercial customers, rather than private homeowners. There are various different kinds of sheet metal roofs. Here we will look at some of the different options currently available.

A metal roofing sheet will be produced from either steel or aluminium in most instances. Other metals such as zinc and copper can be used, but this is relatively uncommon. Steel roofing sheets are the strongest option currently in mass production. They are usually corrugated to ensure that they are as strong as possible. A sheet metal roof made from steel will have a good strength to weight ratio, one of the reasons these sheets are used on some of the largest roofing projects. Steel roof sheets are also effective at resisting any damage which may be caused by direct impact to a roof. This is a great advantage during storms. These sheets will need to be treated before use to make them corrosion resistant. They are usually dipped in a liquid containing zinc, creating galvanized roofing sheets. This process will help to resist the damage caused by moisture, but will not remain effective indefinitely.

Aluminum roofing sheets are lighter than steel, though not as strong. They are also far less impact resistant. These metal roof sheets do however have the advantage of being naturally resistant to corrosion. Aluminium reacts with oxygen creating aluminium oxide, this forms a protective seal over the metal which is extremely effective. This property makes these kinds of sheets particularly useful in coastal areas where moisture in the air can damage other metals more severely, with its high salt content. Even a galvanised steel roofing sheet would begin to corrode in these conditions.

Any kind of all metal roof sheet will have the advantage of being completely fire resistant. This is very beneficial in commercial and industrial environments where dangerous production processes could increase fire risks. Being made from metal, these roofing materials are also resistant to attack by termites or any other insects which can cause significant damage to other kinds of roofing. If you own any kind of large building, there will likely some form of sheet metal roofing that will meet your needs. Whether you choose the strength of steel sheets or the lightweight design and resistance to corrosion offered by an aluminium roofing sheet, metal roofing offers a long lifetime and great value for money.

Related posts:

1. The Many Strengths of Metal Roofs
2. Types of Corrugated Roofing Sheets
3. Corrugated Roofing Options – Metal
4. What is Corrugated Metal
5. The Benefits of Steel Roofing