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TOPIC: General Discussion

Stone cold steel shake over cedar

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I am wanting a metal roof. I am drawn to the stone coated steel due to the texture appearing more "wood like" as opposed to a glossy paint coat on other products. The installer suggests building up a framework over existing shingles which are in fairly decent shape. I am wanting some ridge venting installed in order to eliminate a couple unsightly roof vents (mushrooms) which detract from the architecture of our house. Questions: Is my venting idea ok? Does stone coated steel need cleaning of some sort? Does it collect dirt and moss? Is the built up framework method of installing metal as opposed to stripping old roofing working out long term for homeowners? (ie: not causing rot or any adverse effects) Is it ok to install this method in wet months when it may rain some during install? Contractor claims it will dry out since it breathes thru edge venting and from roof heat. Thanks for any input/ comments.
Mark Headley

11/4/2006
The stone does tend to collect some dirt over time which can be a base for algae growth. Some stone coated manufacturers put anti fungacides into the coating to protect their coating. Typically a hose applied rinse from the ground each spring will help keep this away. If you have a good base their now, the existing wood shingles will act as good insulation and help keep you cooler in summer and warmer in winter. I recommend the existing roof be sprayed and washed to kill any algae first. Yes the roof will dry out but again wash the existing roof first and this will minimize the moisture left in the shingles. make sure you ventilate to the building code.
Allan Reid
Dura-Loc Roofing Systems, Inc.

11/7/2006
is there a recommended treatment to wash with to kill algae? or just pressure wash off any existing debris? is the built up framework working method working out long term for homeowners? Just curious if it has been used for decades or so--- I don't want to be another James Hardie siding type experiment... thanks again
Guest User

11/7/2006
I am not an expert at washing wood and there are some products however a mixture of household bleach, liquid TSP and some liquid dishwashing soap does work. The bleach kills anything green, the tsp loosens it and the dish soap helps float it off when washing.Apply using a hose applicator and then light powerwash off. The gridwork performs excellant. We tested it at USDOE recently and it proved to be very energy efficient as well.
Allan Reid
Dura-Loc Roofing Systems, Inc.

11/8/2006