A Durable Roofing Solution

by Jonathan McGaha | April 29, 2012 12:00 am

durable_roofing_solutionMetal roofing is one of the fastest growing segments of the roofing industry. Joplin, Mo.-based TAMKO Building Products’ MetalWorks Steel Shingles are a durable roofing solution that offers a 50-year limited warranty. MetalWorks provides an excellent combination of wood, slate and tile aesthetics and steel performance.

While a premium metal roof costs more initially than other roofing materials, it can be a good overall investment. Not only are metal roofs long lasting, they can also increase a home’s resale value, decrease a home’s cooling costs and, in some areas, reduce the home owner insurance premiums.carbon steel, aluminum, zinc

Exclusive “Galva-Strength” Steel Construction

Engineered using a combination of carbon steel, aluminum, zinc and a special multilayered Kynar 500/Hylar 5000 coating system, MetalWorks Steel Shingles represent advanced material technology. The”Galva-Strength” steel provides a strong barrier that resists dirt and environmental aging. Not even hail can penetrate the thick, steel armor barrier. Plus, MetalWorks Steel Shingles resist drying out, splitting, curling, peeling or flaking like conventional roofing products.

Potential to Save on Energy Costs

Unlike other roofing products that can quickly turn your attic into an oven, MetalWorks offer high solar reflectance to help lower energy costs. Metal reflects the majority of the sun’s energy back to the sky instead of allowing it to enter the building below as heat. MetalWorks Steel Shingles could help your attic stay cooler longer-leading to a significant reduction in your energy bills.

When applied to certain existing roof types MetalWorks qualifies as an Energy Star product. When installed properly, these products may help reduce cooling costs, however, actual savings, if any, will vary based on geographic location and individual building characteristics. All MetalWorks steel shingles are also rated “Cool” by the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC)-a testament to the energy savings that can be achieved.

Less Weight, More Protection

For an average size home, a concrete tile roof can weigh up to 20,000 pounds and an asphalt roof nearly 10,000 pounds. Considering the added structural costs and the risks posed by earthquakes or severe winds, lightweight materials could be an important financial and safety consideration. Although Metal- Works Steel Shingles are exceptionally strong (able to withstand winds of up to 110 mph) they are also exceptionally light, weighing less than one-third of the weight of regular asphalt shingles.

The shingles are also coated with Minneapolisbased Valspar’s exclusive Fluoropon coating, a two-coat, high-performance Fluoropolymer with weathering characteristics. The coating’s durability and color retention characteristics are the result of the high molecular weight of its formulation. During its application, the molecules in the paint chemically bond to form a durable, long-lasting finish that resists breakdown by ultraviolet rays.

With a Class A Fire Rating, Class F Wind Rating, and Class 4 Impact Resistance Rating, MetalWorks are manufactured to be long lasting and come with a 50-year limited warranty. They are also backed with a 25-year full start period, a 30-year finish limited warranty and a 50-year limited wind warranty against damage from winds up to 110 mph. The shingles are also fire resistant for added protection.

Appropriate Uses

New styles of metal are bringing new architectural style and design possibilities to the roofing industry. The West Coast tradition of using cedar shakes on re-roofing and new construction is gone. Poor fire ratings, hazardous combustibility, expensive cost and short life expectancy have all contributed to the cedar shakes demise. But the cedar shingle is still the preferred look that all roofing material categories are trying to mimic, and most consumers still desire.

MetalWorks shingles mimic wood shingles, cedar shakes, or real slate. AstonWood combines the warmth and appeal of cedar shingles with the strength and durability of galvanized steel to produce a roofing product, replicating the rich deep handhewn texture of wood. StoneCrest Slate is made of a heavier gauge steel and has been double stamped for a more dramatic slate look that closely replicates the random finish of natural slate. StoneCrest Tile creates the distinctive look of smooth, uniform tile. For those who appreciate a classic, refined appearance, these shingles provide outstanding performance and value. All three styles are available in a wide array of colors.

Best Solutions

MetalWorks contain up to 50 percent recycled material, are 100 percent recyclable and can be applied over existing asphalt shingles eliminating disposal cost and mess. MetalWorks has been tested to ASTM D 3161-Class F (110 MPH), UL 790 and UL 2218 and are Florida Building Code Approved. They are available nationwide and cost an average of $450 to $650 per square installed, depending on the location and slope of roof.

Heather Pistole is the communications manager at TAMKO Building Products Inc., Joplin, Mo. For more information about MetalWorks visit www.tamko.com.

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