Tips to Find a Reliable Local Metal Roofing Contractor

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Metal roofs are incredibly popular, and there is no surprise if you are planning to get it installed on your home. However, it is essential to make informed decisions in terms of metal roofing, as several different types of metals are available. Moreover, one more thing has to be understood that metal roofs are not for all kinds of properties. There are some common questions to ask while getting metal roofing installation done.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF METAL ROOFING?

There are several reasons why one should rely upon metal roofing for their homes and other buildings. Some of them are discussed below.

LONGEVITY

A new roof is a significant investment that one could make in his property. Hence, it is important to get the best worth out of every single penny invested. This is possible only with metal roofing and colorbond roofing profiles, as these materials are known for their long life and low maintenance requirements. Upon comparing different materials, we will find that asphalt roofing will require replacement every 20-30 years. However, this is not the case with metal roofing, as it can continue for more than five decades.

HIGHLY ENERGY-EFFICIENT

Compared to other types of roof installations, metal roofing is highly energy-efficient. Some people make the mistake of thinking that metal actually increases the indoor temperature, but the fact is that it can keep your property cooler in summer and warmer in winter. An interesting fact about metal roofing is that it can reduce energy consumption by almost 40%.

ENHANCED CURB APPEAL

Using metal roofing or several colorbond roofing profiles available in the markets makes your property more beautiful and visually appealing. Metal roofing, in particular, is available in various colours, textures, and shades to help you enhance your property's overall curb appeal and resale value. This wide range means you will easily find the colour, shade, or texture that compliments your property.

HOW TO FIND A RELIABLE METAL ROOFING COMPANY?

Finding a reliable roofing company in Australia will be a challenge, as there are so many players in the field. All of them claim to be the best, and in this situation, it is essential to conduct in-depth research to choose a reliable and reputed contractor. Firstly, the metal roofing company should be a member of a professional association like the Australian Roofing Contractors Association or ARCA. Being a part of these associations means the company will abide by the codes of ethics and maintain high standards in metal roofing installation, repair work, and replacement. You can also ask for references and recommendations from known ones who have just installed new metal roofing. Once you have the names of some local metal roofing contractors, don't forget to read their online reviews on Google, Facebook and other similar platforms. This is followed by checking the credentials and ensuring that the company is licenced and ensured.

Determining Some Less-Obvious Signs of Roofing Wear and Tear

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Every roofing structure wears down due to constant exposure to nature and severe weather conditions. They reveal some undeniable and easy-to-spot signs of damage and wear and tear. Since they are obvious and easy to spot, it is not tough at all for any roofing contractor to handle them right in their premature stage. But there are some less obvious signs that any homeowner needs help to trace easily. They require specialised eyes to detect, which is why bi-annual inspection is recommended for your roofing structure. Some significantly less apparent signs of damage to your roofing structure are reviewed here.

ANIMALS RUNNING ON THE ROOF

Animals on the roof are the most obtuse when determining the signs of roofing damage. The fact is that it is a real problem and must be handled as soon as possible. Some animals find your broken or damaged roof ideal to hide or make their nest. This is a clear sign of your damaged roof structure and that you require specialised attention immediately.

WHISTLING SOUND IN YOUR HOME

If there is some mysterious air flow inside your home, it will generate some whistling sound. If you are experiencing any of these two things, it is evident that your roofing structure is damaged somewhere. It is a minor but persistent damage that will worsen with time if not handled by roofing contractors. This is another sign of your roofing structure’s wear and tear or damage that needs immediate intervention.

BLACK SPOTS ON THE ROOF

According to the vendors of corrugated roofing solutions, homeowners often ignore some less obvious signs of roof damage, like black spots. It is not a very common issue, but these black spots can be hazardous, and if they are present, you must get professional roof repair services immediately. Ignoring black spots on the roof structure is the worst mistake any homeowner can commit, as this issue will progress and swell in no time.

BUCKLING SHINGLES

Missing shingles are easy to spot, but there are buckling shingles as well, and they are difficult to identify. Yes, spotting them is easy when a professional roof inspector inspects the roof; otherwise, this damage will surely go ignored. This is why an in-depth roof inspection is recommended every month, as well as bi-annual roof inspections, i.e. done by professional inspectors.

Steps Taken to Prolong your Metal Roofing’s Life

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The sound of the rain hitting the roofing can be a massive concern for those who have ignored the maintenance part of their metal roofing. However, there is not too much to worry about as metal roofs are durable, energy efficient and low maintenance. But still, it is the homeowner’s responsibility to maintain the roof, and for this, experts have recommended several steps. We look at these steps in this blog post, but let us first understand why metal roofing suffers from damage.

WHAT CAUSES DAMAGE TO A METAL ROOF?

The metal roof protects your family and your home from harsh weather, and it is your responsibility to protect it from the same, but we often fail to do so. Long-term exposure to severe conditions takes a toll on the roofing material, and as a result, even the most robust roofing solution, like corrugated roofing, gets damaged. So many factors are responsible for this, and a small list is presented below.

High winds

Sunlight

Saltwater corrosion

Rain, snow, hail, or ice

Tree branches and organic debris build up

Poor installation

Inadequate space for thermal expansion

Oil canning

Dissimilar metals and materials

Inconsistent maintenance

Improper ventilation

HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR METAL ROOFING INSTALLATION?

As mentioned above, metal roofing installation professionals offer numerous tips, and the first step is inspecting the roof.

THOROUGH INSPECTION IS MANDATORY

Remember, timely and in-depth inspection is the key to maintenance and can save a considerable amount of money in the long term. Vendors of colorbond and corrugated roofing installations recommend metal roofing inspection at least four times every year, and regular instructions should be carried out almost every week. This inspection should cover the metal for scuffs, scratches, fading, flaking, cracks, rusting, etc. Remember, several factors apart from nature can damage the roof, and the most prominent are tree branches, salt water, moisture, UV rays, etc.

REGULAR ROOF CLEANING

Even the most robust roofing solutions like corrugated roofing and colorbond roofing require timely cleaning to stay perfect for years and years. Professionals should do In-depth cleaning bi-annually, and general day-to-day cleaning should never be ignored. This cleaning should remove dirt, mould, mildew, debris and other waste materials from the roof, as they can damage the paint and substrate.

This cleaning is a simple process that you can complete, and just three steps are listed below.

Mix a quarter cup of mild detergents like dish soap or car washing soap into a bucket of water. 

Gently wipe the surface of your roof with the solution using a microfiber cloth, soft-bristle brush, or a sponge. 

Rinse your roof with a light-pressure spray from your garden hose.

CLEANING GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS

Dead leaves, small branches and other dirt and debris can get trapped in gutters and downspouts to block them and weaken the structure. The blockage present there will become a reason behind puddles that will generate rusting and other similar issues and damages. It is essential to remove all the dirt and waste materials from gutters and downspouts to ensure that they function correctly in the rainy season. You can also consider investing in gutter guards to free gutters from leaves, dead branches and debris. 

Damage Prevention Tips for Your Property’s Roofing in Cronulla

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Your home’s roof is the most crucial component of the entire property, and it protects you and your family from different weather elements. Hence, you must pay attention to its condition and inspect it regularly to prevent costly repairs. Roofing experts should perform this inspection, and they will ensure that any underlying damages are repaired to avoid expensive repair or replacement. Apart from maintenance and inspection, these professionals also offer several valuable tips and advice related to roof maintenance, and we have reviewed some here in this post.

WHAT IS INVOLVED IN REGULAR MAINTENANCE?

Regular maintenance is very critical in enhancing the overall life of your property. It ensures that any underlying damages are traced before they become major and influence the structural integrity. Regular maintenance involves the following steps.

REGULAR INSPECTION

Regardless of colorbond roofing, corrugated or any other metal roofing, the homeowner should take regular inspection very seriously. As mentioned above, this inspection should be done by the best roofing Cronulla professional thrice a year. This should include looking for the signs of cracks, curling, shingles, missing tiles, rusting, corrosion, etc. Leaks should also be traced, followed by looking for the signs of moisture build-up, mould and mildew.

REGULAR ROOF CLEANING

The time used for regular inspection should also be used to clean your roof and free it from dead leaves, branches, twigs, etc. This dirt and debris can accumulate and promote moisture retention, damaging your roofing in Cronulla over time. This is why regular cleaning is recommended, and for this, experts advocate using a broom or a blower.

CLEAR THE GUTTERS AND DOWNSPOUTS

You should also clear all the gutters and downspouts, as they can prevent water from exiting your roof’s surface. Water accumulation can lead to rusting, leakages and several other damages. Therefore, you must clean the gutters and downspouts, especially after the fall season, as dead leaves can accumulate very quickly.

NEVER IGNORE LEAKAGES

If some leakage is detected, you must ensure that it is taken care of immediately by the best roofing Cronulla professional. These leakages will occur small and ineffective initially, but they can soon become a serious issue that will consume a lot of time and money. Hence, every leakage must be addressed immediately by a reputed roofing professional.

Apart from this, several other maintenance and repair-related steps must be taken, like trimming the tree and branches around the roof. Then, if damaged shingles or tiles are present, they must be repaired before they damage the underlying structure. Flashing should also be cleaned and fixed before it can cause any further damage to your roof or property.

Tips Related To Choosing the Best Colorbond Roofing Colours

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Australia is known for being warm and a land with a sunny climate. This country has an average of 280 sunny days, and in this situation, people are forced to get a roofing installation that can endure the heat and resist ultraviolet exposure. Colorbond roofing is the best solution by far, and one primary reason is the availability of so many Colorbond roofing colours. This metal enhances the aesthetics and is a practical and energy-efficient solution. However, Choosing the right colour is a significant concern, and we have attempted to clear the confusion by exploring the best colours the vendors offer.

CLASSIC PAPERBARK COLOUR

Paperbark is a classic and timeless colour out of all Colorbond roofing colours and is known to complement several architectural styles. The warm and neutral shade blends seamlessly with any surrounding, including lush greenery, and this makes it an excellent choice for traditional and modern properties. One of the best Dulux Colorbond roofing colours reflects sunlight and ensures that your property is cooler during the scorching heat.

SURF MIST COLOUR

This colour is perfect for those seeking a clean and contemporary appearance. The light grey shade works well within the city's modern architectural design. This colour makes a fresh and bright appearance, and is ideal for sunny climates.

WOODLAND GREY

This is a versatile colour used by Colorbond roofing manufacturers to complement diverse architectural landscapes. It has a deep charcoal grey hue that adds sophistication to properties and enhances energy efficiency.

EVENING HAZE

One of the most versatile Colorbond roofing colours is evening haze, known to add elegance to any Australian property. Its appearance functions well with various architectural styles and is best for properties with modern designs. This colour generates a comfortable indoor temperature during the winter season.

Some other Colorbond roofing colours are also available from the vendors. The most versatile is the monument colour that strikes contrast against vibrant greenery and blue skies around your property. Shale grey also works well with different architectural styles due to its soft grey tone. Next comes the cove with a blue and green shade to match your city's coastal proximity. This colour awakes a sense of tranquillity, followed by a dune colour that has a warm and earthy texture to harmonise with your area's natural landscape. 

The best tip for choosing Colorbond roofing colours is to discuss your requirements with the roofing provider. You must consult your requirements, budget and the type of roofing solution you want. Based on these factors, they will suggest the best colour while ensuring that the warranty stays intact and you enjoy peace of mind for the rest of your life. 

A Deeper Study of the Top Roofing Materials

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Reviewing different roofing materials is the most critical part of the roof replacement process. Several factors must be considered, such as weather resistance, roof pitch, durability, cost, etc. Keeping these factors in mind, one can review the top roofing materials in Australia. We have also done the same and come up with the pros and cons of the best roofing materials.

ASPHALT SHINGLE ROOFING

This is the top choice of homeowners today due to being a cost-effective roofing solution. They come with a lifespan of 30 years and are available in many colours and styles. Below are the pros and cons of asphalt shingle roofing.

PROS

• Most cost-effective option

• DIY roof installation possible

• Available in several qualities and colours

• Viable for most climates

CONS

• Frequent replacement and maintenance needed

• Vulnerable to high winds, curling and buckling

• Fades over time due to sun

SLATE ROOFING

According to the vendors of roof installations, slate roofing is costly, long-lasting, and a durable roofing solution. The most significant feature is the slate's density, making it the most durable roofing material. It is entirely fire-resistant and can hold itself well in wind and rain. It is also resistant to mould and fungus growth. You can find the pros and cons of slate roofing below.

PROS AND CONS

PROS

• Low maintenance

• Long life span (75+ years)

• Durable and resistant to the sun

CONS

• Requires professional installation

• No manufacturer warranty

METAL ROOFING

Metal roofing has emerged as the most formidable competitor for all the roofing materials discussed here. The most significant feature of metal roofing is colorbond roofing, available in a wide range of colorbond roofing colours. Some vendors even offer Dulux colorbond colours for outstanding looks and versatile appearance. Several metals are used in metal roofing, and they have their own pros and cons. Read below for the advantages and disadvantages of metal roofing and the cost of different roofing materials.

PROS AND CONS

PROS

• Long lifespan of 40-70 years

• Resistant to the elements, including winds up to 140 mph

• Variety of colours, styles, and types available

• Fairly lightweight

COST OF METAL ROOFING MATERIALS

• Aluminium sheets: $3.75 – $4.25

• Aluminium shingles: $4.50 – $4.75

• Copper: $20 – $25

• Galvalume: $1.50 – $2

• Galvanized steel: $3.25 – $3.75

• Standing seam aluminium: $5 – $7

• Standing seam steel: $4 – $4.50

• Tin: $3.50 – $12

• Zinc: $6 – $8

WOOD ROOFING

Wooden roofing immediately boosts your property's overall aesthetic appeal. It is ideal for you, and you can choose either wood shakes or hand-cut for your home's more rustic appearance. The wood offers total resistance to bushfires after being treated, and redwood cedar is considered the best roofing material, along with others like teak, Wallaba, pine and composite. The pros and cons of wooden roofing are listed below.

PROS AND CONS

PROS

• An aesthetic-looking option

• Treated wood roofs have A-Class fire rating

• Twice the insulation value of asphalt shingles

CONS

• Requires chemical treatment

• Needs frequent maintenance

CLAY ROOFING

Clear roof tiles offer excellent resistance to salty air and extreme heat. They are more used in coastal areas. The drawback is that clay roofing is more expensive, and DIY installation is impossible. The pros and cons of clay roofing are listed below.

PROS AND CONS

PROS

• Excellent solar reflectiveness

• Water and pest-resistant

• Low maintenance

• Provides solid insulation and temperature maintenance

CONS

• Incredibly heavy [2,000 pounds per 100 square feet]

• Requires professional installation

Features That Make Metal Roofing Better Than Asphalt Roofing

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After some decades, a time comes in every homeowner’s life when he has to get a new roof installation done. Most homeowners search for cost-effective, easy-to-maintain and long-lasting roofing materials, and this is where they shortlist the two most popular options. The names are metal roofing and asphalt roofing. The key to selection is understanding these options and their differences. According to the experts, these two options are different based on three key factors, and we discuss them in this blog post.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ASPHALT AND METAL ROOFING?

The first difference is the cost, as the asphalt roof is cheaper, quieter and easy to install. On the other hand, metal roofing options like colorbond roofing are easy to maintain, long-lasting and more eco-friendly.

THE COST FACTOR

The upfront cost of metal roofing, like colorbond roofing and colorbond sheets, is undoubtedly higher than the cost of asphalt roofing and the cost ranges between $18 and $36 per sheet. In other words, you can pay between $18000 and $24000 for a new colorbond roof.

COST PER SQUARE METRE

• Basic Corrugated Steel: $18 Per sheet

• Powder-Coated Colorbond: $21.50 

• Colorbond Ultra: $36.50 

• Double-Sided Colorbond (Suited To Patios, Pergolas, etc.): $24.00

On the other hand, the cost of an asphalt shingle roof is between $4 and $5 per square foot, including the installation charges. This means an average 100-square-foot property will consume just $460. Premium-looking architectural asphalt shingles cost is between $5 and $8.

DURABILITY AND LIFESPAN

Comparing asphalt and metal roofing based on costs while ignoring the durability and lifespan factors is entirely useless. Metal roofing is more expensive, but the return on investment is higher as it can endure more than others. You will find vendors offering a warranty of more than 50 years with their metal roofing options like colorbond roofing, aluminium shingles, copper shingles, corrugated metal panels and so on. Similarly, asphalt shingle roofs come with a warranty of 15 to 30 years and the biggest challenge to confront with this roofing option. Water pooling, heavy rain and too much humidity can lead to damage like cracks and algae and fungus growth.

MAINTENANCE FACTOR

Maintenance is the most significant factor to consider while selecting the roofing material. This area is not easy and small to maintain. Properly installed metal roofing will require less maintenance as the installation team will make it completely moisture-proof. However, getting it inspected at least twice per year for damages and other potential threats is recommended. This inspection will also allow you to clean the roof and make it look new and better every time.