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TOPIC: Roofing Styles

metal roof?

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I am thinking of a metal roof for our new house. The only type of metal roof that I have seen in our area is the pane. It looks a little commercial to me. What is the best for a house and what is the least expensive? I really like the shake but since I don't have any to see around here I am looking for opinions elsewhere. thanks jill
Guest User

6/27/2003
As you have seen on this site, there are numerous profiles and types of metal roofing available. The variety can often be a little astounding and confusing in fact. All of these styles are being used residentially. Metal is rapidly gaining market share in the residential roofing market and it is because of the wide variety of products. If you want a shake look, you can have it. If you want a tile look, you can have it. If you want a slate look, you can have it. If you want a traditional vertical seam look, you can have it. Etc., etc. If you use this website to contact manufacturers of products you like, I bet those manufacturers will try to help you find local jobs you can go see. You will be surprised how many metal roofs are out there, often tucked away in neighborhoods or back country lanes, but they are there nonetheless. Good luck and thanks for thinking metallically! Todd Miller
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

6/27/2003
I have looked at your website and lots of links that you have provided. I have met with two sales professionals in person and several more on the phone. The problem I am having is that sales people want to sell me their product. Can you help me narrow my search. I live in Tampa, FL and I have three priorities in selecting the roof that will be right for me. Will not mold or mildew that is a huge problem with our current roof and have spent lots of money to maintain a clean looking roof. Second, energy efficiency. I am looking to reduce my air conditioning costs as much as possible 30-35%. And finally wind resistant as we have to deal with hurricanes. Can you suggest a couple of types of metal roofing systems that will be the most cost effective and meet the above requirements. Thanks
Guest User

7/22/2003
These are actually easy questions. Last one first is that there is a new Florida building code that has design loads for wind zones included into it. Once you have selected a product ask to see if it carries a product aproval such as Dade County that requires severe wind resistance testing. I do not know if there is such a thing as an algae free roof. Unfortunately in Florida they put a low slope on most roofs which slows the flushing action of trhe rain. Algae grows once dirt sticks to the surface. Virtually all metal roofs are resistant to the Algae however if there is dirt itcan support it. With metal though it is easy to clean it with a regular wash with a garden hose applicator. Use a little household bleach mixed with TSP, Sunlight dish soap and water to flush the roof. The bleach kills the algae, the TSP loosens it and the Sunlight helps clean and flush it away. For energy efficiency first off ensure that your attic is vented properly if you have one, next choose a light colour expecially white and in a good quality granular or paint as it will both reflect and emitt the suns rays. Hope this helps and thanks for choosing a permenant solution to your roofing problems.
Allan Reid
Dura-Loc Roofing Systems, Inc.

7/22/2003