A metal roof is a great choice for Halifax homeowners
If you’re tired of replacing shingles on your asphalt roof and you are looking for another option, consider a metal roof installed by one of Halifax’s qualified metal roofing contractors.
You have likely noticed in recent years that metal roofs are popping up on more and more houses around your neighborhood. There are plenty of reasons why your neighbours in Halifax, and all of Nova Scotia are choosing metal for their new roof.
Durability:
Metal roofing is highly durable and can withstand the harsh weather conditions found in Nova Scotia, including heavy rain, snow, salt water exposure, and strong winds. It is also resistant to rust, corrosion, and rot. Nova Scotia gets a wide range of weather and metal roofing can handle it all.
Energy efficiency:
Metal roofing is highly reflective and can reduce the amount of heat absorbed by your home, leading to lower cooling costs. It can also be coated with reflective paint to increase its energy efficiency even further.
Longevity:
Metal roofing typically lasts longer than other roofing materials such as asphalt shingles, which have a lifespan of around 20 years. Metal roofs can last up to 50 years or more, depending on the type of metal used and the quality of installation. This means you won’t have to worry about replacing your roof as often as you would with more traditional materials such as shingles.
Snow shedding:
Metal roofs are designed to shed snow quickly, which can help prevent ice dams from forming on your roof and causing damage.
Corrosion resistance:
Metal roofing materials are typically made with a protective coating that makes them resistant to rust and corrosion, which is particularly important for homes near saltwater. An experienced Halifax metal roofing contractor will have access to the best quality materials for your home’s metal roof.
Environmentally friendly:
Metal roofing is often made from recycled materials and can be recycled at the end of its life, reducing waste. It is also energy-efficient, which can help to reduce carbon emissions.
Aesthetics:
Metal roofing comes in a variety of styles and colours, making it easy to find a design that complements the style of your home. It can also be formed into different shapes such as metal shingles to provide greater design flexibility. A metal roof can enhance the curb appeal of your home.
Low maintenance:
Metal roofing requires very little maintenance, as it is resistant to mold, mildew, and insect damage. It can be easily cleaned with a hose or pressure washer. This can save homeowners in Atlantic Canada time and money in the long run.
Overall, a metal roof can be a great choice for your home in Nova Scotia, because of its durability, energy efficiency benefits, corrosion resistance, longevity, snow shedding capabilities, low maintenance, and aesthetics. Just be sure to work with an experienced roofing contractor who has experience installing metal roofing in coastal areas to ensure a successful installation.
You can install metal roofing over your shingles
YES! In most cases a metal roof can be installed over existing asphalt shingles. This is known as a “re-roof” or “overlay” installation. There are some considerations and limitations that need to be considered before deciding to install a metal roof over an existing asphalt shingle roof:
Building codes:
Check your local building codes to see if they allow for metal roofing to be installed over shingles. Some building codes prohibit re-roofing over shingles due to concerns about added weight and potential fire hazards.
Condition of the existing roof:
The existing shingle roof must be in good condition and not have any major damage or rot.
Weight considerations:
Adding a metal roof over an existing shingle roof can add significant weight to the structure. It’s important to make sure that the building can support the additional weight.
Roof ventilation:
Proper ventilation is important for any roofing system to prevent moisture buildup and prolong the life of the roof. If the existing roof does not have adequate ventilation, that may need to be addressed before installing a metal roof over it.
While it is possible to install a metal roof over an existing shingle roof, it is important to work with an experienced roofing contractor in your local area, who can evaluate the condition of the existing roof and make recommendations for the project and best course of action.
Once it is determined that your current asphalt roof is structurally stable, a metal roof should be able to be installed right over top of the existing shingles. This has an additional bonus to you of extra heat and sound insulation. It’s a win-win!
What are the advantages of a metal roof over an asphalt roof?
The choice between a shingle roof or quality metal roof will depend on several factors, including your budget, the climate in your area, and your personal preferences.
Here are some pros and cons of each option:
Shingle Roof advantages & disadvantages:
Pros:
Lower initial cost than metal roofing
Available in a wide variety of colours and styles
Can be installed on most roof types
Cons:
Generally less durable than metal roofing and may require more maintenance over time
Less energy efficient than metal roofing
May be more prone to wind and weather-related damage
Metal Roof advantages & disadvantages:
Pros:
Highly durable and long-lasting, with a lifespan of 40-70 years or more
Energy-efficient and can help reduce cooling costs
Resistant to fire, wind, and weather-related damage
Low maintenance
Cons:
Higher initial cost than shingle roofing
May be more difficult to install and repair than asphalt roofing
Limited colour and style options compared to shingle roofing
Overall, both asphalt roofs and metal roofs have their advantages and disadvantages, so the best choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a long-lasting and durable option, a metal roof may be the better choice. However, if budget is a leading concern or you prefer a wider variety of colours and styles, shingle roofing may be the way to go.
Can you install metal roofing in Halifax in the winter?
Roofing is an all season job, even in the winter! Our highly skilled and experienced team installs metal roofing 12 months of the year.
This surprises some people but rest assured that the installation season does not affect the quality of the materials or the installation process.
In fact, because the winter season is typically considered an “off season” for roofing, winter roofing installation can be a benefit to you. Metal roofing contractors may have more availability and may have more flexibility to work around your schedule to make the process less of an inconvenience for you.
Metal roofing can be installed in the winter, but there are some factors to consider. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Temperature: Climate conditions such as cold temperatures can affect the installation process, particularly if the metal roofing material is very rigid or if the fasteners become brittle in the cold. It’s important to choose a metal roofing material that is suitable for the temperature range in Nova Scotia.
Snow and ice: Snow and ice can make the installation process more difficult, as well as pose safety hazards for the workers. It is important to have a clear roof surface of snow and ice before beginning the installation process.
Daylight: With shorter days in the winter, the available working hours will be shorter. This can lead to a longer installation time.
It is important to work with a local roofing contractor who has experience working in cold weather conditions. Experienced, local metal roofing contractors will know how to properly prepare the roof surface, select the appropriate materials, and take necessary safety precautions to ensure a successful metal roofing installation on your home.
Does Nova Scotia weather affect metal roofing?
Yes, weather can affect metal roofing, but most other metal roofing systems and materials are designed to withstand a wide range of weather conditions. Some factors to consider are:
Temperature: Extreme temperature changes can cause metal roofing to expand and contract, which can lead to warping and cracking over time.
Moisture: Metal roofing can rust and corrode if exposed to moisture over a prolonged period of time. Proper installation and maintenance can help prevent water from seeping under the metal panels and causing damage.
Wind: Metal roofing is generally more wind-resistant than other roofing materials, but strong gusts of wind can lift panels and cause damage.
Hail: While metal roofing is generally more resistant to hail than other materials, large hailstones can still dent or damage metal panels.
Overall, while weather can affect metal roofing, it is generally a durable and long-lasting option for homes and businesses in a variety of climates. Proper installation and maintenance can help ensure that your metal roof withstands the elements and remains in great condition for many years.
Do we only install metal roofs in Halifax?
No, our service area includes many areas in HRM & Nova Scotia
- Dartmouth
- Sackville
- Bedford
- Windsor
- Hammonds Plains
- Truro
- Elmsdale
Metal roofing is a great choice for those looking for a durable, long-lasting, energy-efficient construction, and environmentally friendly roofing option that requires minimal maintenance.
Your roof is an integral part of your home. If you are considering installing a metal roof on your home, talk with an experienced, local metal roofing contractor who can guide you through the process, answer your questions, provide you a with a free quote and supply the best metal roofing options for your individual roofing needs.
