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

Because of extreme climatic conditions such as hailstorms, hurricanes, extreme heat and wildfires which affects residential homes in different stats across the country. There are more and more people are becoming aware about having numerous advantage of metal roof panel. Corporations and manufacturers in the industry are introducing wide varieties of styles options to increase the elegancy of the house and at the same time increase its worth. Such material gained popularity in fact, there are lots of homeowners upgrade their roofing system from traditional to metal roof.

Durable yet Versatile

Roofs which are made from metal materials are strong and has the capability to standout against adverse climate conditions. In addition, metal roofing is lightweight which are much lighter compared with asphalt shingles. You might be thinking that since metal is tough, it weighs heavier.

A single 26 gauge panel weighs only 0.88 lbs. per square foot. A 12 inches metal roofing panel weighs for about 10 lbs. While most people think about metal roofing is heavier compared to other materials. Yet, if you do the math and compare asphalt shingles over metal roofing, asphalt can weigh 5 lbs. per square foot a 4.12 lbs. differential.

Options Available

In general, roofing companies offer roll-formed and vertical panels which may in fact not suitable for suburban places. The good news is, Alpha Rain Incorporated offers more available options which can help you out to create a new metal roofing appearance. You can have panels treated or painted which give you the edge over your residential home appearance.

Styles and designs may vary from region to region. For an instance, in Southeast region, residential homes faces strong winds which make 14% of home owners prefer metal roofing system. While in the West region, there are several rustic metal roofing designs applicable for most homeowner. While here in Virginia, the climate becomes increasingly warmer and humid farther with an average of 86 degrees. As winter comes, blizzards and winter storm occurs.

Alpha Rain Incorporated

Alpha Rain Incorporated have been serving, installing and developing top notched metal roofing Virginia. Our patented roof ventilation system can decrease extreme temperature about 35 up to 45 percent. It is an energy efficient roof ventilation system powered by Therma-Vent. Such technology acts as natural coolant for the house because of its airflow. It keeps the inside temperature cool as things get hotter from outside.

With our patented ventilation system, it provides a good return of investment by keeping a measurable cost saving on your electricity bill. You no longer have to increase the thermostat cooling system of your air condition which tremendously can affect your monthly billing because of intense heat. In fact, energy bills can trim down to 30% during summer days. While during winter season, it reduces for about 10% of your monthly bill.

Our metal roofing system has more resistant to strong and intense winds. The panels are woven which creates a maximum wind resistance. In case of repair cost, we have 35 years of warranty.

Metal Roofing Va Energy Efficient roofing system

Radiant Therma Vent

Metal Roofing VA introduces ventilation to the roof and attic. It reflects radiant heat with the use of a radiant barrier and it stops the conduction of heat in the summer and cold in the winter into the attic space.

How it works: the drip edge at the lower edge of the roof has an air gap below it where air can enter. As the air under the roof is heated by the sun, and as hot air rises exiting the vented ridge vent then cooler air is drawn in at the eave. As long as hot air rises (we don’t think a law can be passed to stop that) then this becomes an automatic air ventilation machine. There is a Styrofoam panel with grooves in it to enhance the air movement and to create a thermal break where cold or heat cannot be conducted into the house.

The home above is located in Charlottesville, Virginia and you can see how the panels are being installed right on top of the foam panel. The radiant barrier is under the panel and the air pathway is under the panel as well.

We will be happy to show you a prototype of this system where we actually disassemble a model of this unique but effective approach to ventilating older homes.

For further information please call 540-222-1642 or visit our website @ AlphaRain.com for Metal Roofing VA.