Mostmetal roofswere confined to commercial buildings or to higher-end residential structures.
Continuous panels run from the ridge of the roof down to the eaves.
There are no horizontal seams.
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Between the panels are seams connected by fasteners which are raised above the level of the metal roofing.
The seam fasteners range from 1/2-inch high to 1-1/2 inches high.
Because these fasteners are concealed, you only see a smooth continuous ridge extending from top to bottom.
Factory-Formed or Formed On-Site
Roof panels can come either pre-formed or site-formed.
Pre-formed panels are created in an off-site factory.
Panel Width and Length
Panels tend to run 12 to 19 inches wide.
Panels can technically be any length since they are formed from rolls.
Most panels are between 3 feet and 45 feet long.
Panel Composition
Standing seam metal panels are usually made either of Galvalume-coated steel or aluminum.
Is Metal Roofing Fireproof?
Metal itself is fireproof.
Metal is fireproof, but then again composite or asphalt roofs are fireproof, too.
Galvalume and galvanized steel are the least expensive types of metal roofing to install.
Painted aluminum, zinc, and copper are more expensive to install than Galvalume or galvanized steel.
Composition Shingles vs.
There are two problems with composition shingles, though.
First, the cost of composition shingles is influenced by oil prices, as they are derived from petroleum.
This means that prices can fluctuate due to pressures outside of the roofing industry.
Second, composition and asphalt shingles tend to lose surface material.
After enough seasons, conventional shingles have literally been worn down to the core.
Sweeping the shingles or, worse, power washing them will only speed up the process.
Standing seam metal roofs are a completely different product.
Insulation and roof decking eliminate interior noise.
Most standing seam metal roofing will last 40 to 70 years, if properly maintained.
