By Tim Fowler, Sentry Roofing.
In the roofing industry, metal has been consistently growing in popularity due to its durability and long lifespan. However, this doesn’t mean that metal is infallible and as it ages, there will inevitably be damage and wear on the roof. If these are not treated properly, they can lead to significant costs for repairs and maintenance. Luckily, for concerned commercial and industrial building owners, the experts here at Sentry Roofing, Inc. have compared the pros and cons of various metal roof solutions that can revitalize your aging roof.
Metal roofing systems are an excellent choice for new buildings. They are structurally sound, stand up to the elements well and offer long life spans. However, as metal roofs age they develop a number of issues such as missing fasteners, failed sealant and flashings, corrosion and damage from continuous thermal movement. Eventually basic repairs are not sufficient and an investment in a long-term solution is necessary.
There are several factors to consider when deciding on the best course of action for your metal roof, including budget, the severity of the issues and your building’s specific needs. We will explore four main metal roofing options, each with their pros and cons, to help you make an informed decision:
By understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each option, you can choose the one that best suits your building and its requirements. In this post, we will provide a comprehensive overview of each metal roofing solution, while subtly emphasizing the advantages of metal retrofitting as the ideal choice for aging metal roofs.
Sentry Roofing, Inc. is committed to providing valuable insights and expert guidance to building owners with metal roofs.
By the end of this post, you will have a better understanding of the available options and feel confident in making the right decision for your building’s metal roof.
One of the most cost-effective options for addressing issues with aging metal roofs is the application of a protective coating. Coating systems are specifically designed to provide an additional layer of defense against the elements, helping to extend the lifespan of your metal roof while addressing minor concerns such as rust and small leaks.
The coating process typically involves the thorough cleaning of the metal roof surface, followed by the application of a primer and a specialized coating material. These materials are formulated to adhere to the metal surface, providing a watertight seal and increased resistance to corrosion and weathering. There are many different coatings on the market with different applications. These can range from lightweight coatings for corrosion resistance to heavy fabric reinforced coatings that can seal seams and small holes.
Pros of coating
Cons of coating
Coatings can be a viable option for commercial and industrial building owners seeking an affordable solution to minor metal roof issues. However, it is essential to recognize the limitations of this option, as coatings may not be suitable for addressing more significant problems or providing long-term protection for aging metal roofs.
For building owners facing severe issues with their metal roofs, such as widespread deterioration or loss of structural integrity, a complete removal and replacement of the existing roofing system may be necessary. This option involves the removal of the old metal roof and installation of a brand-new metal roofing system, offering a fresh start and long-lasting protection for your building.
The process of removing and replacing a metal roof requires careful planning and execution, as well as consideration of factors such as building codes, insulation requirements and compatibility with the existing structure.
Pros of remove and replace
Cons of remove and replace
The remove and replace option is best suited for commercial and industrial building owners facing severe metal roof issues that cannot be addressed by less invasive solutions. While this option can be costly and disruptive, it provides a long-lasting solution that ensures the continued protection and performance of your building’s metal roof.
For building owners seeking a solution that maintains the appearance of a metal roof while addressing significant roofing issues, a metal panel retrofit system might be the ideal choice. This option involves installing a new metal panel system over the existing metal roof, providing additional protection without the need for complete removal and replacement.
The metal panel retrofit process requires careful assessment of the existing roof structure, as well as the design and installation of a compatible new metal panel system.
Pros of metal panel retrofit
Cons of metal panel retrofit
A metal panel retrofit is a suitable option for commercial and industrial building owners who want to maintain the look of a metal roof while addressing major roofing issues. While this option may be more expensive than some alternatives, it offers a long-lasting solution that preserves the aesthetic appeal of your building’s metal roof.
For building owners looking for a versatile and reliable solution to address their aging metal roof’s issues, a single-ply membrane retrofit might be the answer. This option involves installing layers of insulation to make a smooth roof surface and a high-performance membrane over the existing metal roof, providing an additional layer of protection that effectively solves most major roofing concerns while offering several other advantages.
The membrane retrofit process requires a thorough evaluation of the existing roof, proper membrane selection and precise installation to ensure a successful outcome.
Sentry Roofing, Inc. can assist you in making the right choices and provide professional installation services for your membrane retrofit project.
Pros of membrane retrofit
Solves most major roofing issues: Membrane retrofit systems are designed to address various roofing problems, including leaks, rust and failing flashings.
Cons of membrane retrofit
A membrane retrofit is a flexible and effective solution for addressing the challenges of an aging metal roof. Although the cost may be higher than a coating, the benefits of a membrane retrofit, such as comprehensive warranty coverage, insulation improvements and increased reflectivity, make it a worthwhile investment for many commercial and industrial building owners.
As a commercial and industrial building owner, addressing the issues associated with an aging metal roof is a critical concern. In this blog post, we have provided an in-depth analysis of the four main metal roofing options available to you: coating, remove and replace, metal panel retrofit and membrane retrofit.
Each option comes with its unique advantages and drawbacks and selecting the right solution for your building’s specific needs is paramount.
At Sentry Roofing, Inc., we believe that metal retrofitting, particularly membrane retrofit systems, offers an excellent balance of cost-effectiveness, performance and long-lasting protection for aging metal roofs. While it may not be the least expensive option, the comprehensive warranty coverage, improved insulation and increased reflectivity make it a sound investment for many commercial and industrial building owners.
Ultimately, the decision of which option to choose for your aging metal roof lies with you, the building owner. By considering the information provided in this blog post, along with the advice of a reliable commercial roofing contractor like Sentry Roofing, Inc., you can confidently make an informed decision that will ensure the long-term protection and performance of your metal roof.
Original article source: Sentry Roofing
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