If you’re not an expert, roofing a commercial building in coastal states can be tricky. Coastal climates tend to be tough on building exteriors. Constant moisture from the humidity, frequent rain, and salty air all have an additional wear-and-tear factor that is not good for your commercial roofing system. This is one reason many property owners choose a flat metal roof for commercial properties in coastal states.
Metal Roofing In Coastal Areas: Best Materials To Use Near The Ocean
Which are the best metals to select for your roof in coastal regions? We recommend Aluminum, Zinc, Copper, and Stainless Steel. However, the best choice for your building will depend on the size, location, budget, and general aesthetics of your project.
- Aluminum
- Lightweight and rust-free, Aluminum is incredibly sturdy for its density and is one of the best-performing metal roof materials on the market. Aluminum is known to be affordable, reliable, and has the ability to withstand the moist salty air of seaside towns very well – especially when treated with a protective coating.
- Copper
- Copper rooftops are surprisingly common in coastal areas, though they don’t stay bright and shiny for long. Copper roofs by the sea will quickly form a greenish patina over the brown copper base. This color shift might be considered off-putting for some, but the patina actually acts as a further protective layer which is beneficial for your roof.
- Stainless Steel
- Stainless steel is rare to see in large quantities as required for a commercial roof. However, it provides rust-resistant protection, unlike other metal roofing options that contain iron.
- Zinc
- Zinc is a beautifully bright roofing metal that comes at a premium price point. The investment in Zinc would provide outstanding performance in coastal regions due to the lack of iron in the roofing system alloy.
Now, let’s dive into the seven benefits of flat metal roofs for properties in coastal communities.
- Durability and a Longer Lifespan for Your Roof
Metal roof systems are highly durable, especially against elements that might generally peel up a membrane system or a steeped shingle system. Metal roof panels are secured with fasteners, and metal does not bend nearly as easily as a roof membrane. This gives it resistance to up to 140 miles per hour gusts of wind without bending or cracking. Metal roofs are also remarkably impact-resistant and can help your building endure falling trees and flying debris.
You will also enjoy a longer roofing lifespan. Metal roofs can last 40-70 years if properly maintained, depending on your chosen material.
- When Your Business Is In A Moist, Humid Climate
The right kind of metal roofing for your region offers superior weather protection. If your business is in a humid climate, as is common by the sea in communities throughout the Carolinas and Virginia, you need increased weather protection. Not only can the ocean unleash violent stormy weather, but regular rainfall also makes the slightest leak a risk to turn into a significant problem.
With a flat metal roof and preventative inspections, you can rely on a durable roof even in high humidity conditions.
- The Potential for Insurance Savings
Your insurance provider may also recognize that a metal roof replacement decreases the risk of your building regarding local storm damage and, therefore, can reduce the cost of your insurance rates.
- Energy-Efficient Roof Design
Did you know that metal roofs are very energy efficient? Metal roofs reflect the sun’s UV and infrared light better than any other type of roof. This means heat bounces off your roof instead of absorbing into the building. This can decrease your cooling costs by 10-25% in the warm months every year.
- Low Maintenance Costs
Metal roofs are also comparatively low in the need for maintenance. While you should get an annual roof inspection to be certain (and maintain your warranties), you will also likely pay far less in routine repairs over the next several years or decades of working with your flat metal roof system.
- Safely Non-Flammable Roofing
In coastal regions with a high lightning risk or an extended dry season, metal roofs offer the bonus of being remarkably non-flammable. Unlike other types of roofing, a metal roof cannot catch a spark from lightning or nearby fires, protecting your building from disaster in one more important way.
- Environmentally Friendly Business Values
Lastly, many businesses are looking for ways to comprehensively represent the eco-friendly or green values of their customers. A metal roof is an excellent way to remain in alignment with your green goals. A metal roof can be made of 25-95% recycled material. Some metal roof panels can even be 100% recycled at the end of their lifespan.
Choose Hound Roofing – Experienced Metal Roofing Installations
Here at Hound Roofing for over 30 years we have prioritized providing trustworthy and professional commercial roofing services in North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. Contact us today to learn more about selecting the right flat metal roofing system for your commercial property in the Coastal Mid-Atlantic.
Photo Contributor: Shutterstock – Hillbillypirate