Survey Says ... Metal Roofing Withstands the Test of Time

Metal roofing has been a popular choice for both commercial and residential use and for good reason.  Research was directed and authored by Metal Construction Association (MCA), three independent consults, and their firms.  Their findings were issued by MCA and Zinc/Aluminum Coaters Association (ZAC) in a report that concluded that 55% Al-Zn coated low-slope steel standing seam roofing systems suffer very little corrosion if properly maintained and can last at least 60 years.

Fourteen building sites in five climate regions of the US were studied. The range of climate conditions covers different combinations of temperature and humidity, factors that would be expected to impact the corrosive potential of the environment: Hot-Dry, Hot-Humid, Cold-Dry, Cold-Humid, and Moderate-Acid. The acidity of precipitation is another significant factor that varies widely among the 14 study sites.

In addition to building inspections, the study included “independent laboratory analyses of metallic corrosion of the roof panels, components and sealants,” and integral ancillary components such as fasteners.

Inspections showed an absence of significant corrosion (red rust) of roof panels, even in areas that might be expected to be the most vulnerable such as panel profile bends and sheared edges. These observations were made on roofs up to 35 years old.

The survey cautions of two caveats. “First, some of the ancillary components of the roof system might not be as long-lasting and may need replacement at some point in order preserve the service life of the roof overall. Common zinc plated fasteners, for example, would probably not last the life of the roof.”

To solve this problem, the RoofLoc^® SCRAIL^® system was developed by the BECK Fastener Group.  The leakproof EPDM-washer resists temperature contraction due to temperature extremes, offering no metal residue or “pig tails” for superior washer seal and eliminates scratches with a FasCoat^® exterior finish and SS304 Stainless Steel available.

Proper maintenance of the roof is also necessary. Inspection and cleaning at least once a year are recommended. Twice a year may be more appropriate in locations that experience snow: once before the winter, and once after to check for damage that may have occurred during the winter.

The study shows that metal roofs represent an excellent investment. Non-metal roofs used for commercial buildings generally require one (or more) replacements during the course of 60 years. A roof that lasts as long as the building does is considered a great deal.

The best way to reduce your roofing company's costs without decreasing value is to use high quality materials that will reduce the need for "do-overs," making your employees (and therefore the installation process) as efficient as possible. Choosing the proper metal roofing fastener, such as the SCRAIL^®RoofLoc^® System, will benefit both your reputation on the job and your efficiency in getting it done correctly the first time.