In the 1860 to 1890 era “Terned Tin” roofs gained in popularity in the Mid Atlantic region. The iron-coated tin roofs were inexpensive when compared to slate, wood and tile options available at the time and if properly maintained would exceed their 80 years expected lifespan. In the last 20 years, our company has replaced many of these roofs that are over 120 years old.

With tin roofs, longevity occurred with constant maintenance with proper painting being the most important. Keep in mind that almost all roofing paint until 1978 had lead so that the molecular adhesion sometimes helped the paint last 20 years between paintings.

Now the question is how long will modern metal roofs last? The most popular substrate available is Galvalume plated carbon steel. This plating was invented by Bethlehem Steel in the 1970’s. At that time they thought it would last 50 to 60 years.  In 2012, the Chicago-based Metal Construction Association (MCA) and Olympia, Wash.-based Zinc Aluminum Coaters Association (ZAC) commissioned a study to perform forensic tests at 14 existing Galvalume standing-seam metal roof sites throughout the country in varying climates and precipitation PH. The average age of these roofs was more than 30 years at the time of testing.

These sites were initially chosen for their varied temperature and humidity zones but it quickly became apparent the difference in PH levels was the factored that affected the lives of these Galvalume roofs. Here are the states these roofs were located: Massachusetts (2 sites), Ohio (3 sites), South Carolina (2 sites), Georgia (1 site), Colorado (1 site), New Mexico (1 site), Arizona (1 site), Oregon (1 site) and Wyoming (2 sites).

The conclusion was that the higher the PH levels the lower the acidity in the precipitation. The average panel life expectancy for 14 sites was 139 years. The lowest PH was 4.36 with a life expectancy of 66 years; the highest pH was 5.37 with a life expectancy of 375 years. After eliminating the highest and lowest, average life expectancy is 125 years. This average life expectancy is more than twice the 60-year life expectancy required by LEED v4.

When a coating is applied to the Galvalume metal roofs the life expectancy increases to over 180 years. At that time your great-grandchildren may want to discuss using one of their modern coatings to add another 100 years to this very long-lasting metal roofing system.

We can even add more years to these durable substrates if we include a roof ventilation system that, in some cases, can reduce attic air temperatures in the summer by as much as 50 degrees. For more information on our patented Therma Vent ventilation systems visit us at: AlphaRain.com

Written By: Brandy Dysart
Owner and Founder of Alpha Rain Metal Roofing

There is a lot of confusion about metal thickness, especially if the hardness or grade of the metal is not included. The higher the number the thinner the metal. Commercial-Grade steel is usually 24 gauge for Standing Seam Panels. Residential construction is usually 26 gauge for Standing seam panels. Both have the highest impact rating (Class 4). Why do you think 24 gauge is used for commercial applications? It’s simple, commercial panels are generally longer so the extra thickness is needed to get the longer panel on the roof without bending. After it is installed there is no fundamental difference. 26 gauge is available in matte finishes which is very important in residential metal roofing because it doesn’t “telegraph” the expansion and contraction bulges, commonly known as “oil canning”. 29 gauge metal panels dominate the farm and agricultural industry. Did you know there can be a 40% difference in dent resistance between a thick and thin 29 gauge metal panel. In the metal industry, the gauge is a range of thicknesses that manufacturers have to stay within. For instance, the 4Ever Metal shingles are made from 28 gauge thickness. There can be a 40% difference in dent protection between the low and high end of 29 gauge. This difference in dent protection is an important consideration when investing in a metal roof, and that is one of the reasons we choose the 28 gauge which is thicker than all the 29 gauge agricultural metals.

Now that we have talked about steel thickness let’s talk about steel hardness. Metal roofing is produced from different hardness grades. Grade 80 is hard steel used to produce metal agricultural panels of 28 to 29 gauges. This combination of thickness and hardness is great for metal shingles. 4Ever Metal shingles are made out of Grade 80 hardness. To bend the shingle a long roll forming process is used to gradually bend the panels. All the trim is 26 gauge Grade 50 due to the severe angels that are necessary to make drip edge, wall flashing and valley metal.

An advantage of using such hard steel is that it is not damaged by walking on it. Once the protective plastic film coating is removed you can safely walk on the shingles with a soft rubber sole shoe without fear of bending or scratching.

For more information on our 4Ever Metal shingle call 540-222-1642 or visit us at AlphaRain.com.

Written By: Brandy Dysart 
Owner and Founder of Alpha Rain Metal Roofing

Alpha Rain Inc. serving in Amissville VA

We, Alpha Rain incorporated specialized in Metal roofing in Virginia particularly in most northern parts of VA. We offer our exclusive metal roofing installation including the energy efficient ventilation system powered by Therma-vent. The system can save your cooling cost for about 10-30%, this is very essential and helpful especially this coming summer season. We developed our exclusive no leak W Valley and patented roofing system.

Continue reading “Amissville VA Metal Roofing – A Choice for any Building”

Alpha Rain Inc. making its mark in Prince William County VA

Prince William is a county located in Virginia with estimation of over 400,000 people living within 130,000 household from Caucasians, African American, and Asian. The median household the county has to offer is more or less a hundred thousands of dollars. The county was in fact a rural and agricultural area for decades. During the 1930s, larger suburban population takes place and develops new housing particularly in Manassas. It is known as the area of tobacco plantation where crops being changed to mix to soil in the market. You can discover a lot more in the county as you visit the Marine Corps Heritage Museum.

As years of development, we Alpha Rain Incorporated one of the prestigious metal roofing contractors northern Virginia had witnessed afar much richer agricultural from ancestral home of the lee Family and to present unique and modern housing structures. A great county deserves great quality roofing and this is where we come in. We are honored and forever grateful to be part of the roofing tradition of Prince William County. For the past several years, we have been installing metal roof shingle and solar roofing to make our small mark in this county.

“A great county deserves great quality roofing and this is where we come in.”

Prince William Metal Roofing VA

We strive our best to develop innovative and high-end technologies to serve you better. Alpha Rain continues to find ways and discover much greener home urban community progress. Whether you are planning to make use out of this coming summer season with solar roofing panels, standing seam metal roofing, and shingle roofing, our expertise in the business are competent with over than 20 years of experience.

We pride ourselves to our latest ventilation system innovation. Our patented ventilation system powered by Therma-Vent makes your home interior’s attic temperature from 100 degrees down to 70 degrees. It allows every local in the county to save their energy cost with straightforward pricing without any hidden fees. If you want to know about the metal roofing services offered at Prince William County Virginia, you can watch this video.

Metal Roofing Fauquier County Virginia

Fauquier County Virginia has uniquely attractive core with rich in historical sceneries including arts and culture. The nation’s capital is pretty much a unique place to live with. The area itself is recognized as the as an urban planning gem. Moreover, the county offers classical architecture style and monuments. Fauquier County got the best set of museums in the world. In fact, the center mall itself has a museum setup which is a major destination for visitors and locals. The County is mixed with socioeconomically communities. It is the most secure large cities in the country with plenty things to do especially at night.

Homes and business

The expanse of homes and businesses are greatly progressing. But, since the county is located close to D.C.,   the median home cost is over than $200,000 and the cost of living is higher than the US average. Perhaps one of the recognized disadvantages in the county is when the summer season comes. This is where we. The Alpha Rain Inc. comes in.

“Alpha Rain’s aims to deliver quality metal roofing, solar roofing and energy efficient ventilation system for everyone and anyone in the county.”

Alpha Rain Incorporated

Alpha Rain Inc. is grateful to be a part of this great county serving thousands and thousands of residential homes and commercial buildings. We are using our knowledge and skills about metal roofing installation and shingle roofing business for over than 20 years. Our aim is to deliver quality metal roofing, solar roofing and energy efficient ventilation system for everyone and anyone in the county.

We pride ourselves with our latest groundbreaking ventilation system powered by Therma-Vent. We are thankful and honored to share our expertise in the metal roofing business and will even try better ways to bring all our customers beyond satisfaction. We, Alpha Rain Inc. is dedicated to provide you the best services, quality, and reasonable rates that even our competitors in the business couldn’t contest.

Choosing the Right Underlayment Material for your Metal Roof

Metal roofing underlayment is a layer beneath your standing seam which is intended to produce optimal roofing system to the entire building. It should be carefully selected in order to ensure proficiency. Therefore, there are several considerations that must be addressed including your location, insulations, and barriers. This affects the long term service of your metal roof and the ambient condition. Improper selection and installation can lead your residential home into devastating condition particularly leakage and moisture entrapment that can deteriorate the quality of your roof overtime. Hence, you have to be aware of what kind of underlayment you are going to need prior to your metal roof.

Underlayment for Metal Roof

Moisture problems are pretty much common whatever type of roofing materials you are going to use. The same issue with installing a metal roof, if your deck roof or there could be a chance where water droplets drops to your forehead, this mean that your roof has a condensation issue. Remember that installation of underlayment product must allow the moisture come up through it and not allow the water molecule the get through it. The idea is like a sock which brings the moisture out.

“What matters is the type of underlayment sheet should be effective.”

The Felt underlayment may resist to air and moisture vapor, but not an effective air barrier. Also, keep in mind not to use button cap nails because these materials have a plastics which can eventually make those nails up. Preferably coil nails are better options for your roofing underlayment system.

Synthetic underlayment sheets on the other hand are less sensitive to cold weather but generally do not qualify as air barriers. But, it is less susceptible from wind damages and wetting after installation.

We Alpha Rain Incorporated strongly believe that the name of the brand or the product when it comes with underlayment sheet is not quite necessary, what matters is the type of underlayment sheet is effective. We try and test the products and see if they work well.

Is Your Metal Roof Safe During a Lightning Storm?

So, you are planning to upgrade your roof from traditional asphalt shingle into high-end metal roofing system. However, you are anxious how safe is your metal roofing system during thunder storms. Indeed, metal can attract thunderstorm and it is the number one conductor of electricity but it does not necessarily mean that your home is at risk if it is installed with metal roofing.

• Metal improves the value of your home
• It is durable that can last up to 80 years or even more which is a good investment
• Recyclable material as an Eco-friendly choice
• Fire resistance which means insurance companies may reduce premiums
• Decreases your annual property tax from the federal government.
• Energy efficient roofing system which is beneficial for locations with extreme heat during summer season.

With all these advantages, there is no doubt while lots of residential home owners are turning their interest to upgrade roofs and find metal roofing contractors northern Virginia.

When it comes with the thunderstorm issue, the answer is pretty much simple. Your metal roofing is guaranteed safe during this type of weather. Yes, metal conduct and attracts electricity but your metal roof won’t attract lightning and this is a fact. Also, lightning strikes rarely to buildings. Instead, lightning can potential strikes to tall structures such as trees, poles and towers.

If worse comes to worst which the lightning strikes to your metal roofing system, the roof will actually help to keep you safe by dispersing the energy throughout the building. It is extremely fire resistant so you don’t have to worry about such myths.

Stay safe with lightning storm

When you are outside and thunderstorm strikes, the best you can do is to find shelter but not to the tallest objects. It is also recommended not to go to an open field or park. In order to be safe, find sturdy shelter but be cautious. You can find more details about the lightning issues here in this FAQ.

To Get Energy Efficient Home Can I Install Solar Panels on a Metal Roof?

Thanks to the development of technology, homeowners and companies these days are beginning to learn how to maximize natural resources for energy. There are lots of devices that can be powered by solar panel technology which can help everyone who wants to save up and free from paying skyrocket electricity bill. Apart from the fact that solar panel allows you to save huge amount of cash, such technology never requires high maintenance.

Solar Panel Roofing System

You can replace your roof into premium metal roofing powered by solar roofing fans in order to have an energy efficient roofing system. The solar roofing fans works as hard as it could as the temperature rises which will turn your home’s attic air flow stable. These fans allow you not to turn your air-conditioning thermostat up to the max especially during hot summer days. These fans let your home interior comfortable to live with. The metal roofing system designed with solar panel for ventilation system brings out positive energy buildings that produces as much as energy as they use over years to come. Another benefit is the fact that you are going to get 30% solar tax credit for metal roofs and solar film.

Wise and Practical

You can get an energy efficient ventilation and roofing system at home with your solar panels. We, Alpha Rain Incorporated one of the most prestigious metal roofing contractors Virginia, developed a unique design and plug in style that allows your roofing system to become energy efficient. No need to worry about expensive maintenance and repairs. Our patented ventilation system powered by therma-vent which features our solar fans can really pay off. Most residential homes in Virginia estimate that 2-4 kilowatt offset their expenses. The roof helps your home to reduce heating and cooling loads because of its high reflective radiation roof. In addition, our design integrates solar thermal heating panels for wind turbine application.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Installing a Metal Roof

If you want to make sure you’ll get all your money’s worth when it comes with metal roof installation, ensure to hire credible residential metal roofing contractor. Why? Because, admittedly, roofers use leftover materials from their previous jobs where the materials were not purchased, it ends you up form different batches of color variation which is quite obvious causing the effect of both quality and color of your roof. Imagine, you are paying a lot of money with this project, only to be revealed that you are actually paying leftover.

Warranty

There are several privileges a certain metal roofing company may offer to you such as more than a decade warranty. However, just like any other services or products, ones the seal were removed, the warranty will be voided. You should aware for wrong sealant, jagged cut which were not sealed, fasteners which were installed too tight, unsealed scratches from installing crews.

Backing out screws and fasteners

As mentioned, you have to make sure that your roofers are properly trained and skillful prior to your metal roofing project. Rusting fasteners and crews which were not installed properly may create leaks. Roofers simply drive the screw fasteners from the top side of the panel. Very well-trained professional roofers will make sure that your metal roof is 100% free from leaks. Standing seam metal roofing panels is a great alternative which is wind and hurricane resistant.

Lowest bidder

Yes, you want look for the cheapest metal roofing system as much as possible, but it does not necessarily mean that you are going to compromised prior to the quality of your metal roof installation. Your main priority concerning this project is the quality and not just the price itself. Keep in mind that the project must meet your expectation. Be sure to ask your roofers or metal roofing contractors about their previous work project, terms of warranty and how long they’ve been into the metal roofing industry.

Advantage of Metal Roofing over Asphalt Roofing

Upgrading your roof into metal instead of traditional materials such as asphalt is one of the best decisions you’ll ever make for your home makeover. Of course, one of the burning questions on your mind is the cost. Expect, that you are going to spend 2 or 3 times more price if you compared to what you’d normally employ to asphalt shingle roof.

Metal roofing Cost

You are not just paying the materials and the quality of your roof but also the specialized skills of metal roofing company. There are several factors that can affect the price rate of your energy efficient metal roofing system this includes the type of metal, geographic location and the overall complexity of the roof. Once you determine the price and the types of metal materials which are going to use to your home, you can try and negotiate the terms of payments or discounts in order to minimize your expenses. Shop around the web in order to get the best deal as possible in your area.

Asphalt roofing cost

Yes undoubtedly, asphalt shingle materials can minimize your cost. The problem is that, you have to consider the maintenance and repair cost form time to time. You should be aware that this type of material can easily wear out. Expect to encounter leaks and other major issues. Such material may require you to spend much cash than you’ll ever expect especially if you are located in a stormy area. Another disadvantage of asphalt roofing is the efficiency of its ventilation system. In case, there are no proper wind exchange, mold and mildew can manifest causing your roof to deteriorate immediately. There are more and more cash you have to spend frequently.

Why metal roofing is expensive?

Obviously, you are getting premium quality roofing. Just like buying a wrist watch, expect that Rolex Watches is far more expensive than Casio. The same goes with metal roofing. Aside from the quality of materials, you are also paying the contractor’s expertise and the cost installation.

Accuracy

Proper installation of metal roof is highly important in the process. It requires skills, training, experience, proper equipment and engineering design. It is not a s simple nailed to the rock roof deck. It requires precision which makes your metal roofing elegant and durable. Therefore, make sure to look for legitimate metal roofing contractors Northern Virginia.

Do the math

The bigger the footage of your roof the less you can expect to pay for the cost. If the design of your house has different angle which makes metal roofing installation is pretty much complex such as angles, dormers, chimneys, and sidewall, the price may go up.

To get reasonable metal roofing price engineered with the best metal roofing design and efficiency. You can never go wrong with Alpha Rain Incorporated. The company has been serving and installing top notch quality metal roof in most part of Virginia. Get quote and discover more about numerous benefits of metal roofing system by checking out www.alpharain.com