Professional Roofing & Post Frame Construction Services
Asphalt Shingles: The Versatile and Economical Choice
Asphalt shingles remain the most popular roofing material in North America, valued for their affordability, ease of installation, and wide variety of styles and colors. These shingles are composed of a base mat (usually fiberglass) saturated with asphalt and topped with a protective layer of ceramic granules. This composition provides excellent protection against water and UV rays, while the granules add texture and color, mimicking the look of more expensive materials like wood shake or slate.
One of the key benefits of asphalt shingles is their versatility and ease of repair. In the event of storm damage or leaks, an individual shingle or small section can often be replaced without having to disturb the entire roof. While a standard three-tab shingle is the most economical option, architectural or dimensional shingles offer a heavier, multi-layered look that provides superior wind resistance and a much longer lifespan, often backed by warranties extending up to 50 years.
Screw-Down Metal Roofing: Durability and High Value
Screw-down metal roofing, also known as exposed fastener metal roofing, offers a rugged, long-lasting alternative to traditional materials. This system uses large metal panels—typically steel or aluminum—that are secured directly to the roof deck or purlins using screws with exposed weatherproof gaskets. The visible fasteners are a defining feature of this type of roof, making it a very cost-effective choice for barns, sheds, commercial buildings, and increasingly, residential homes where a more industrial or rustic aesthetic is desired.
The panels are available in various profiles, such as R-panel or corrugated, and come in a wide range of durable paint finishes that reflect solar heat, contributing to energy savings. While the exposed screws require periodic inspection and maintenance to ensure the rubber gaskets remain sealed, the overall roof system is highly resistant to fire, rot, pests, and high winds. Its light weight also makes it an excellent option for re-roofing over an existing shingle layer, saving on tear-off costs.
Standing Seam Hidden Fastener Roofing: The Premium Look and Performance
Standing seam hidden fastener roofing represents the premium tier of metal roofing, characterized by sleek, clean lines and superior watertight performance. This system uses metal panels that lock together at an upright seam, or "rib," which completely conceals all fasteners from view and direct weather exposure. The panels are typically secured to the roof substrate with clips that are hidden beneath the seam, allowing the metal to expand and contract naturally without straining the attachment points, which significantly extends the roof’s lifespan.
The absence of exposed screw heads is not only aesthetically pleasing but is also the key to this roof's exceptional longevity and low maintenance. By eliminating the most common point of failure—the exposed fastener hole—the roof achieves a virtually impenetrable surface against water infiltration. While the initial investment is higher than other roofing types, a standing seam roof can last 50 years or more and contributes to excellent curb appeal, often resulting in lower lifecycle costs compared to regularly replacing an asphalt shingle roof.