Metal Roof Colors and Styles in North Carolina

Galvalume Steel

Galvalume steel is a material comprised of carbon and iron, then coated with an aluminum/zinc alloy. Many times, galvalume steel has an industrial look due to its often unpainted, shiny metallic finish. Galvalume steel is resistant to corrosion, but unlike aluminum, it will eventually rust. It is important to understand that while steel is economical and lasts longer than traditional roofing materials, it is not likely to last a lifetime like some other metal roofing options.

In addition to its industrial, commercial look, there are a few other drawbacks to galvalume steel that must be considered. One important downside to galvalume steel is how easily it scratches. The combination of aluminum and zinc in the material make it weaker, especially on cut edges.

Another potential area of concern is what is referred to as tension bend staining. This staining occurs because galvalume steel tends to form tiny cracks when it is bent or formed. These cracks collect moisture, and eventually, rust can settle into the fissures creating discoloration. The staining will spread over time, typically in a spider web fashion.

The most common application for galvalume steel is in roofs with simple profiles, for example, the standing beam style. The less you need to bend the metal, the better. The recycled content of galvalume steel is much lower than aluminum.

• Advantages: Resists corrosion, Cost-effective
• Disadvantages: Often cracks and rusts. Recommended for simple, flat profiles. Not as attractive as other metal roofing options. Steel needs to be cut with shears rather than a saw.
• Thickness: 024” (24 gauge)
• Weight: Ranges from 100-150 pounds per 100 sq. ft.
• Recycled Content: 35% recycled content on average

Galvanized Steel

Galvanized steel does an adequate job of covering simple, flat profile roofs. It is a cost-efficient option, and although it is difficult to install, if it is done by a metal roofing professional and properly coated, it can last a long time. There is a large range of metal roof colors, styles, and thicknesses to choose from, depending on the type of building you’re covering. 

Galvanized steel, like other steel used in the roofing industry, is treated to help prevent it from rusting. The carbon and iron steel alloy is dipped in liquified zinc. The coating thickness varies, with the thickest coating providing the strongest protection against rust and scratches. The most common thickness is G-90. The 90 refers to the 0.90 ounces of zinc cover each square foot of steel. G-60 and G-30 is also available, but are not recommended since they have a much lower life-span and require more maintenance. These numbers only refer to the thickness of the coating; they do not refer to the thickness of the steel, which is measured in gauges.

The zinc coating that is applied to the steel offers both galvanic and barrier protection. Galvanic protection simply means that the coating would be impacted before the metal underneath would suffer any damage. Barrier protection is just what it sounds like… it protects the metal from the elements by acting as a barrier. Scratches and rust need to penetrate the coating first before becoming visible, which is why the thickest coating is recommended. In addition to a coat of zinc, galvanized steel roofing systems are also covered with a coat of paint, and in some cases, a “post-forming” coat for added protection.

It is important to note, even with a thick coat of zinc, galvanized steel is not recommended for residences near coastlines or in areas with excessive amounts of corrosive particles in the environment. Elements like salt from the ocean can accelerate corrosion and wear on galvanized steel.

• Advantages: Cost-effective, Customizable to achieve desired look
• Disadvantages: More difficult to install. Rust can appear if not installed correctly. Doesn’t last as long as other metal options. Recommended for simple, flat profiles. Steel needs to be cut with shears rather than a saw.
• Thickness: Shake, slate, shingle, and tile profiles: 0.018” to 0.014” (26-28 gauge). Standing seam profiles: 0.018” to 0.024” (24 to 26 gauge).
• Weight: Ranges from 100-150 pounds per 100 sq. ft.
• Recycled Content: 35% recycled content on average

Copper

Copper is a universally sought–after roofing material, primarily due to its striking appearance. This metal comes with a higher price tag, and it’s for this reason that most people opt to use it as an accent, for example, on a bay window or dormer. It’s also a popular option for churches and historic buildings, since it lends a bit of elegance and timelessness to the overall look of the structure, but it can also work well as a unique residential metal roofing style.

Generally, copper is applied in short standing seam panels or sheeting, however, copper shingles are also an option. Occasionally, flashing materials can even be crafted out of copper. It is not recommended that copper flashings be used with aluminum or steel roofing materials because the mixing of the metals will cause the non-copper elements to deteriorate much more quickly.

One of the main reasons people fall in love with copper roofs is the attractive verdigris patina that forms after several years. This is the bluish green build-up that you often see on pure copper. Aside from looking great, the patina also serves as a protective barrier against corrosion, and it is the reason copper roofs last so long. Typically, it takes between 8 and 15 years for the patina to appear, but it will ultimately depend on the environmental factors at play. Salt spray from the ocean, for example, will accelerate the patina process drastically. It is possible to purchase copper that already has a patina, or has been treated to speed up (or slow down) the process, many people opt to let it happen on its own.

Once copper ages, water runoff tends to become an issue. As water collects and runs off the roof, it picks up some of the patina with it. This can lead to staining on metals, brick, wood, and other surfaces. This issue can be mitigated by controlling the runoff patterns. Alternatively, the copper can be coated in lead. This is not as popular an option, especially in modern times when health concerns surrounding lead prevent it from being used in many construction applications.

Copper is extremely easy to work with because it is so soft and malleable and surprisingly, it is also very durable. For those that desire the look of copper without the high cost, there are copper finish options that can be applied to steel or aluminum roofing systems. The options range from shiny new-looking copper to weathered and patinaed copper.

Though it is a pricier option, once you install a copper roof, you can rest easy knowing it’s going to last for 100 years or more. Even better, it only looks better with age. Copper roofing can be traced all the way back in 1801 for the Massachusetts State House, and since then, it’s been a coveted choice for commercial and residential applications.

• Advantages: Visually striking, Hard-wearing, Easy to manipulate and custom tailor to specific roofs, Extremely long lifetime
• Disadvantages: More expensive. Runoff from copper roofs can stain other surfaces. Achieving patina takes many years.
• Thickness: Pre-formed shingles: 0.016” to 0.022” (12 to 16 oz.), Vertical seam profiles: 0.022” to 0.027” (16 to 20 oz.)
• Weight: Ranges from 100-150 pounds per 100 sq. ft.
• Recycled Content: varies but often 35% recycled content

Almost any style of roof can be achieved with metal, from the more traditional standing seam style to a vintage tile look or popular shake and shingle profiles. Just because you’re choosing metal for your roof doesn’t mean you have to be limited when it comes to style. With our large collection of metal roof colors and styles to choose from, a metal roof can be installed to complement your home exactly, no matter the age or design.

Standing Seam

When people hear the term “metal roofing” they often first think of standing seam roofs. This profile is understated and simple, which makes it a great option for commercial applications, as well as barns, sheds, and the like. The most important thing to consider when opting for a standing seam profile is the size and the complexity of the roof. Most residential roofs have a more compact and more intricate profile, which makes standing seam systems a little tricky. If you do choose standing seam for the home, a smaller panel width is best. Panel widths greater than 12” tend to look more commercial in nature.

Standing seam roofs can be installed using either through-fastened or clip-fastened systems. Clip-fastened standing seam systems are more common than through-fastened systems, even though they’re costlier. In a through-fastened system, fasteners are driven through a flange that runs the length of the panel. The flange is hidden by the next panel, concealing it from the elements. However, because most residential standing seam systems feature panels that are custom formed to fit the entire length of the rafter, they expand and contract more than shorter panels. This slight movement in the panel will cause the fasteners to loosen and the holes where the fasteners were inserted to oilcan. Shorter runs, like over a porch accent or bay window are ideal for through-fastening.

When installing standing seam over longer runs, the preferred option is a clip-fastened system. Ideally, the clips are made from the same metal as the standing seam panel, or from stainless steel (which is not susceptible to galvanic action between different metals). In this system, fasteners are driven through the clips into the roof deck. Unlike the through-fastened system, there is no penetration of the metal panel itself.  Everything is concealed beneath the panel, giving the illusion that they’re “floating.” This helps ensure the system is more water resistant, and oil canning is less likely as well.

The ribs between the metal panels are also something that must be considered. For sections with longer runs, or even for shorter runs that are downhill from longer runs, it’s recommended that taller ribs are used to help carry water down and away from the roof. This is a more elegant solution, but it does add cost to the project.

Standing seam roofing systems are generally constructed from galvalume steel or galvanized steel, ranging anywhere from 18 gauge for heavier commercial projects to 26 or 28 gauge for simpler residential projects. Typically, 24 to 26 gauge is used for steel standing seams. Higher quality standing seam systems, for example, the ClickLock Premium Standing Seam are constructed with heavy gauge aluminum that ranges from 0.032” to 0.050”.

Most standing seam systems come with coordinating pre-formed flashings. They help with ease of installation, and they help ensure the roof remains water-resistant for decades. To ensure the flashings match the pitch of the roof exactly, they should be custom crafted for each project. At McCarthy Metal Roofing, we carry several standing seam metal roof colors and styles. One of our experts can help determine the best roof option for your home or business.