A Toolbox Full of Topics: Construction and Contracting Blogs

« Back to Home

Factors To Consider When Designing Metal Roofs

Posted on

Several considerations need to be made during the design of a metal roof. This article discusses some of those key factors that are considered in order to design a metal roof that will last for its expected service life without developing major issues.

Expected Wind Forces

Wind can exert inward and outward forces on all roofs. Inward forces originate from the windward side of the roof. These forces can make a roof to collapse inwards due to the direct impact of wind forces on that roof. Outward forces attempt to lift the roof upwards due to the uplift that is caused by the pressure of the wind acting upon the underside of the roof. A correct assessment of these wind forces results in the selection of fasteners that will be able to hold down your roof so that it doesn't succumb to those wind forces.

Material Compatibility

Metal roofs can be damaged if they get into contact with materials that are incompatible with them. For example, coated steel metal sheets can corrode if they are in contact with lead, copper or bare steel. Even products with a high moisture content, such as concrete, can lead to the deterioration of coated steel roofing products. Metal roof designers, therefore, go to great lengths to design the roof in such a way that it will not be exposed to other products that will have a negative impact on its integrity.

The Pitch

The pitch of a roof refers to how steep that roof is. The pitch of a roof impacts several aspects of a home, such as the visual appeal and the ability of that roof to channel water away during rainy weather. Roof designers try to avoid a roof pitch that is too low because water may pond on that roof. Ponded water can exert a lot of weight on the roof. It can also trigger the onset of corrosion. The anticipated volume of rainfall in an area plays a key role in determining the minimum roof pitch that can enable the roof to dry up quickly.

Environmental Conditions

The design and selection of metal roofing supplies are also affected by the environmental conditions at the proposed installation site. For example, what industrial, agricultural or marine conditions are likely to affect the roof? The specific threats in your area will influence the products selected for your roof. For instance, copper may be selected for roofing a house near the coast due to is resistance to saltwater corrosion.

As you can see, metal roofs are carefully designed so that they can perform well in whatever condition they are exposed to. You should, therefore, have no fears about installing a metal roof as long as you hire professionals to select the most appropriate design and roof materials for your area.


Share