Metal Roofing Basics for Self Storage Facility Owners and Managers

There was a time when self-storage facility owners settled for corrugated tin roofs or built-up roofs, but things have changed. In what has become an increasingly competitive industry, today’s modern, climate-controlled facilities are designed not only to be energy efficient and secure but also visually appealing.

This calls for a stronger, more reliable, and more aesthetically pleasing roofing material. It’s not surprising then that metal roofing has become the standard of quality for self-storage facilities.

What Makes Metal Roofing Popular

Metal roofing is highly durable and versatile. It comes with many different design options and can be easily customized to the specific needs of every storage facility. It can be one of the storage facility’s key design elements, drawing attention to the building and creating a sense of protection and confidence, which is precisely what most facilities try to convey.

At the same time, metal roofing has relatively low maintenance costs. This makes it a more cost-effective investment in the long term than cheaper roofing solutions which, despite their lower initial costs, are more likely to get damaged or decay.

Types of Metal Roofing

Metal roofing comes in many varieties, but there are 3 general types of metal roofing offered by most providers in the US and beyond. Each of these comes with its advantages, as highlighted below.

• Exposed fastener metal roofing – Widely available and easy to install, this is the most commonly used type of metal roofing, consisting of metal panels fastened to the structure of the roof with screws. It’s durable, visually pleasing, and cost-effective.
• Structural standing seam metal roofing – Consists of panels that are seamed together with an electric mechanical seamer, eliminating the need for fasteners and thus reducing the risk of leaks and increasing the lifespan of the roof. It’s usually more costly than exposed fastener metal roofing, but also more durable.
• Snap seam metal roofing – Featuring a snapping seam formed into the panels, snap seam metal roofs tend to be more versatile and creative in their designs than structural standing seam roofs while offering the same benefits as the latter. This type of roofing usually requires an underlayment as well as a solid deck.

In addition to these metal roofing varieties, there are also on the market different types of hybrid metal roofs that use metal shingles or tiles to create a unique design while providing the same durability and easy maintenance as structural standing seam roofs.

How Long Does a Metal Roof Last?

Metal roofs enjoy a long lifespan, superior to that of roofs based on other materials, making them perfect for self-storage facilities. One of the key factors affecting the durability of a metal roof is the type of metal it is made from. While an aluminum roof can last 35 years, a galvanized steel roof made of alloyed steel with a zinc coating can last 60 years or more. Also important is whether the roof is professionally installed.

If you’re building a self-storage facility, or if the facility you own or manage needs a new roof, metal roofing is a reliable and cost-effective choice.

Metal Roofing System Guide

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