Metal roofing is rapidly becoming a popular alternative to the asphalt or tiled roofs due to their durability and weight.
They are available for very large areas and usually come with a guarantee covering 25 to 50 years.
When buildings are being planned, it's a good idea to contact a metal roofing contractor to get estimates and a timescale of when the roof will be available.
This form of roof is sometimes made-to-order and is custom made as one piece.
Local contractors will be a good source of information with regard to building regulations and should give you quite a few different options.
Does the roof pass all current local building regulations? Which type of metal will be used? Aluminum roofing will last in excess of 50 years but is also more expensive.
What coatings are available for the roof? Ceramic coatings are great for reflecting heat - important if major heat buildup could cause problems between the roof and internal ceiling.
In cold climates, does the roof come with good insulation needed for the area of installation? What kind of maintenance is required? The more expensive roof options should need very little, if any maintenance throughout its lifetime.
By contacting a roofing contractor at the early stages of planning might give you extra freedom to consider designs that you might not have contemplated with traditional roofing.
Custom made roofing allows you to create bolder, more unique designs adding substantially to the overall look of the new building.
Standing seam metal roofing allows a little more flexibility in that it can be roll-formed actually on the site in limitless lengths.
These roofs are very versatile that can be used on pitched, curved or even flat roofs.
This type of roofing can come in aluminum which gives extra flexibility when fitting and comes with the different climate options for the location.
Other metal types are available which may be more suitable depending on the load the roof can support.
The metal roofing contractor will have the necessary experience to guide any buyer to the best option.
After the roof design and material has been decided, give some thought to the type of eave overhang you require.
The overall design of the roof will be the deciding factor as to how much eave is required, but you should choose a color and material to blend in with the overall design.
The fascias are attached underneath the overhang giving protection to the structure of the roof, and keeping the elements out of the roof space.
Most designs will also allow ventilation into the structure so that sufficient air can circulate around the top of the structures wall.
The final factor to think about at the design is the rainwater system that you'll need.
Downpipes for rainwater can either be incorporated into the wall structure or external downpipes.
A good quality system should at least equal the main roof's construction so as to give many years maintenance free usage.
Rainwater collection systems are also available to help metered water usage.
These systems pump rainwater into a concealed tank that can be used for many non-drinking purposes in the home.
While these systems can add to the overall costs, they do save money in the long term.
Metal roofing has come a long way over recent years, and with care and advice, can enhance the overall look of either a new build or existing home.