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Metal roof in Florida

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Patrick Murray
1/2/2017
In the design phase of a single story home located in Pensacola Florida about 5 miles from salty/brackish water. Several Questions: 24 or 26 gauge metal? We are considered a potential high wind speed location. Is one type of fastener system more wind resistant than another? Though I don't think there will be significant salt exposure, are there any finishes that are better at salt resistance? The A/C equipment will all be in the attic. As planned now, R-30 closed cell foam on underside of plywood decking with attic space considered conditioned. Top side of plywood decking covered with a high temperature rated ice/water membrane with metal roofing applied without further insulation. With that R factor planned, do you see any benefit to insulation on top side of decking? Does top side insulation decrease wind resistance any since the metal is further from decking? Thanks P Murray
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.
1/3/2017
All other things being equal (metal thickness, coating type, panel design), I would go with the heavier 24 gauge. I assume you're looking at painted galvalume. The PVDF coatings on top of the galvalume will probably offer the greatest UV and salt protection over the long haul. In your case, sure, adding insulation would not be harmful but it may be overkill and not have good ROI. I would suggest, if you do add insulation, to also use wood battens running horizontally to break up the insulation, which the metal roof can be fastened to. Make sure that your metal roof manufacturer is aware of what you're doing and approves of this application.

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