Bauer Roofing Blog - Metal Roofing

Is Metal Roofing the Right Choice for My House?

Wed, 19 May 2010 15:52:00 -0400

More often than not, when I am meeting with a homeowner to look at their house, I am asked whether a metal roof would be a good option. Metal roofing is gaining in popularity by leaps and bounds and will continue to do so, with no end in sight. But whether or not a metal roof is a good option for you, depends on a few things.

There are some questions you need to consider when making the choice for a new roof system.

How long do you plan on staying in the house?
If not for very long, then is re-sale value important to you?
Do you want the roof to be energy efficient? Are you scared of what energy bills are going to be in a couple of years. At current inflation rates, energy costs are on the rise. Imagine if rate hikes go into effect and inflation goes up.
If you want the roof to cool the house off, then how much?There is a big difference between an aluminum roof and a white asphalt shingle. Both are energy star rated but the efficiency ratings aren't even close. The Energy Star Rating is simply a bare-minimum standard.
Do you care about wind resistance?
Is hail an issue in your area?
Do you want a long lasting roof? Asphalt shingles, on average, where I am, last about 12-15 years. Is re-roofing the house that often okay with you?
Metal roofing can be substantially more expensive than asphalt shingles. Some of the reasons are obvious and some aren't. But keep budget in mind.

There isn't a house I can think of where a metal roof wouldn't be a good option. However, not every homeowner is in a position to take advantage of metal and it's effectiveness.

Think seriously about what you want out of the roof. If it is just a temporary covering for a couple of years and you don't care how hot the attic is, then put an asphalt roof on your home; a metal roof may not be the best option for you. But, if energy savings and long term investments are important to you, then look hard at the benefits of a metal roof system on your home. You won't regret it.

Also, if you want a copy of "A Homeowner's Guide to Roofing", click the link.

Roy Bauer

Pictures of Metal Roofing Project In Charleston, SC

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 08:30:00 -0400

We just finished installing a new "Standing Seam" metal roof on a beautiful home in Charleston, SC. This house sits on the waterway and has an incredible view. And because of that, the homeowners wanted a metal roof that would blend in with the style of their house, keeping in mind that it is a Coastal home. They chose to install an aluminum, hidden-fastener standing seam, metal roof.

As you can see from the pictures below, it was the perfect choice for this house. Not only do the homeowners have a roof that will last a lifetime, but they have one that will reduce cooling costs every day that it is on there.

Take a look at the pictures. If you are interested in having a metal roof installed, give us a call at 803-955-0374 or click here to have a representative get in touch with you.

BEFORE

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

UPDATE AUGUST 27, 2009: Upcoming Metal Roof System To Be Installed in Charleston, SC

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 14:59:00 -0400

UPDATE: I've added some pictures of this house in progress. I'll post more when it is finished.

Starting very soon, we will be installing an Aluminum Standing Seam Panel on this house in Charleston, South Carolina.

They wanted to go with a standing seam panel, as opposed to a metal shingle, because of the style; they wanted the roof to look more like a traditional coastal home. They have decided to use the Bright Silver color and it is going to look fantastic.

I'm going to post a couple pictures now, and then I'll post the pictures of the house in progress and then the finished ones as they come in.

Check back soon.

We started on the back of the house by removing the old shingles and installed Palisade Synthetic Underlayment, which is more energy efficient, stronger and less water permiable than #30 felt.

Next, an aluminum drip edge was installed around the entire edge of the roof and then the first panels were installed.

The pictures below are of the first few panels being installed. I'll post more pictures when it is finished. Keep checking back.

Environmentally Friendly" Roofing: A Smart Choice

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 11:54:00 -0400

One of the biggest catch phrases going around right now is “going green”. But, what exactly does that mean when it comes to roofing and how does it affect you as a homeowner?

Typically, most houses here in South Carolina have an asphalt shingle roof on them. Asphalt shingles are basically the worst type of roofing for “green” conscious homeowners as they come. Why? Because they are susceptible to hail damage, absorb heat, hold on to that heat for a long time, are rarely recycled (because it is difficult), heavy and typically last 12-18 years. If you add up that combination, it spells environmental disaster.

Having said all of that, asphalt shingles are the most popular because of their cost, which is low. Let’s face it, we, as homeowners, will overlook the bad parts of something if it is cheaper. That doesn’t make it right, that is just a fact. But when it comes to roofing our homes, we need to start developing a different mind set. A paradigm shift, if you will. We need to start thinking long term and not, “What is best for me now, I don’t care about 10 years from now.”

To their credit, shingle manufacturers are doing something to try and make their shingles more “green”. They have developed what is called “cool colors”, which is a shingle that has a higher reflective material in it. Most of these shingles are being developed in California because of their strict regulations on “energy efficiency”. Title 24 is strongly encouraging shingle manufacturers to create more “cool” shingles, or they could find themselves, in the not too distant future, not being able to sell shingles in the largest state in the U.S.

But, no matter how reflective the “rocks” on top of the asphalt shingle are, it doesn’t change the fact that it is very bad in a hail storm, heavy, and virtually non-recyclable.

Fortunately, there is a product that offers both longevity and “green” friendly features, and that’s metal roofing.

Metal roofing, if you get the right type, is made from 98% post consumer recycled material, is 100% recyclable, is the most energy efficient roofing available, installs over existing roofing material (eliminating costly tear-off and dump fees), will not rust, rot or crack, never needs cleaning and will last a lifetime.

One of the only draw backs I’ve heard to metal roofing is the look. I’ve heard from homeowners that they don’t want their house to look like a Pizza Hut or a bank. And many “Coventry Laws” in subdivisions don’t allow commercial looking, metal roofing. But, there are some fantastic looking options out there for metal roofing that simulate a “wood shake” or “shingle” look. And, if you are in the right area of South Carolina –along the coast or in the country— there is still still the “standing seam” metal roof option.

When it comes to roofing your home, the most energy efficient, storm protected, longest lasting option, is a metal roofing system by Bauer Roofing. The advantages are enumerable.

We know that cost is an issue with every homeowner. The right metal roofing system will obviously be higher than a standard architectural asphalt shingle. If you have questions about metal roofing, whether it is the look, energy efficiency or the cost, give us a call and let us help give you the resources you need to decide what the best roofing system is for your home.

If you live in South Carolina, please give us a call at 803-955-0374 or fill out our simple Request an Estimate Form and a representative will call you back.

royb

Energy Efficient RoofingWhat a Great Idea!

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 08:39:00 -0400

Homeowner’s who invest in the energy efficiency of their house could receive a federal tax credit of up to $1500!

—This is the second of a two part post. Add Bauer Roofing to your RSS feed to learn more about how the 2009 stimulus act could you a federal tax credit.—

To Read Part I Click Here

The Old Way

South Carolinians have come to expect their temporary asphalt shingles to streak, curl, lose granules and fail to the point of needing replaced every 12-15 years. That’s because asphalt shingles—regardless of the quality—begin to lose their effectiveness and life the moment they are installed. Homeowner’s have also seen their energy bills creep higher and higher never realizing it was their asphalt roof drawing the sun’s energy into their home. The result were overworked air conditioners and higher cooling costs.

An Energy Efficient, Lifetime Alternative

Bauer Roofing installs Classic Metal Roofing Systems to give homeowner’s a lifetime of cooler homes and lower energy bills.

Along with a federal tax credit, a Classic roof—

Accentuates the beauty of your home with intricate designs and vibrant colors that will last
Reflects the sun’s energy and reduces your summer utility costs by up to 25%
Is made from 98% recycled aluminum and not foreign petroleum like asphalt shingles
Is 100% Made In America
Comes with a lifetime/40 year limited warranty for your long-lasting peace of mind
Is an Energy-Star Partner*
Is a “Certified Roofing Panel” by the Metal Construction Association. That means only the highest quality metal, paints and coatings were used to manufacture your lifetime roof
Has a 50 year track record of protecting homes around the world
Ask Yourself

Before you install any roof on your home, ask yourself some important questions—

What am I paying in summer cooling costs? Does my home feel hot even though the air conditioner seems to be running all the time?
Do I want a roof that will hold up against extreme weather?
Do I want a product made from 98% recycled material or one that fills the earth after 12-15 years of usefulness?
Do I want a roof that will curl, streak and curl or one that will retain its beauty and color for decades?

Call Bauer Roofing today at (803) 955-0374 to learn more about the federal tax credit for energy efficient, environmentally friendly roofing. Visit us at www.bauerroofs.com.

(*Tax credit and Energy Star partner applies to most but not all of our products. Go to the Classic Metal Roofing Systems website or contact Bauer Roofing for more information)

royb

Learn How You Could Receive a Federal Tax Credit of up to $1500!

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 09:06:00 -0400

Homeowner’s who invest in the energy efficiency of their house could receive a federal tax credit of up to $1500!

—This is the first of a two part post. Add Bauer Roofing to your RSS feed to learn more about how the 2009 stimulus act could earn you a federal tax credit.—

To Read Part II Click Here

America’s current financial crisis is looming large in the lives of South Carolinians. Stocks, mutual funds, 401-K’s, savings and nest eggs have all taken a major hit with the economic downturn. It seems like even safe investments have all but disappeared.

There is hope

Investing in your home is the safest and best way to plan for the future. A home that is designed for maximum efficiency with minimum work will be an investment that pays dividends in the coming future.

As a part of the new American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, homeowners who choose an energy-efficient, environmentally-friendly lifetime aluminum roof from Bauer Roofing can qualify for a federal tax credit. Unlike a tax deduction, a tax credit means an immediate deduction from your taxes—It is an instant savings to you and a lifetime investment in your home!

Call Bauer Roofing today at (803) 955-0374 to learn more about the federal tax credit for energy efficient, environmentally friendly roofing. Visit us at www.bauerroofs.com.

Current Metal Roofing Project: Dillon, SC

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 09:22:00 -0400

This is a house near Dillon, S.C. that had architectural shingles on it that needed to be replaced.

The homeowner wanted the most energy efficient and longest lasting roof he could find, so he chose the Oxford panel by Classic Metal Roofing Systems. He had searched the internet for information on metal roofing and realized that this was the best roofing material out there. Period.

During the initial inspection of the roof, the Bauer Roofing representative measured the house and noticed that there were multiple leaks in the attic. So not only was a new roof needed, but also there would be rotten wood on the two-story section and around the chimney that needed to be replaced.

We are currently working on this house but I have a couple of pictures so far.

This is a picture of the house with the old architectural shingles on it.

This is a picture of the house with the new Classic Metal Roofing Systems (Oxford) on it.

Again, these are in-progress pictures. We will update this with more pictures as they come in. But here is a closeup of the Oxford Metal shingle.

If you notice on top, we also installed a custom Ridge Vent to circulate the air, keeping the heat down and the moisture out. And if you look closely, you'll see there is a lot of metal flashing to be done. The entire porch flashing kit has to be custom made to fit against the brick and under the windows.

Keep checking back for more pictures.

For pictures and descriptions of other roofing projects here in South Carolina, click here.

Roy Bauer, Bauer Roofing

What's Happening with Metal Roofing: An Interview with Todd Miller

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 09:42:00 -0400

We recently had the opportunity to talk with Todd Miller to get his take on what’s happening in the residential metal roofing industry. President of Classic Metal Roofing Systems, Todd Chairs the Metal Construction Association Roofing Council and is a founding member of the Metal Roofing Alliance. Let’s see what he had to say:

Q: Todd, in the current economic times, what is happening to residential metal roofing?
A: Actually, all indications are that the industry will show some good growth this year. The bulk of the residential roofing market in any given year is for re-roofing, And, what we’ve been finding with the decline of new home construction is that homeowners who care about the beauty and durability of their homes are choosing to re-roof with metal as a way to upgrade their home investments.

Q: Are there any particular geographic areas where metal is really taking off?
A: Not really, we’re seeing growth in virtually all markets right now.

Q: What are the top couple of reasons why people are choosing metal?
A: They really like its durability, and its energy efficiency. It is pretty meaningful for most homeowners if they can cut their summer energy costs by up to 20%. But, you know what? At the end of the day, when the roof has been installed and that proud homeowner stands in their yard and looks at it, the number one thing they usually like is the beauty of it.

Q: That’s great. We’ve noticed that as well. So, what challenges does the residential metal roofing industry face?
A: As an industry we have made great strides in getting homeowners aware of and interested in metal roofing. However, we need to catch up with that on the supply end. There are contractors and distributors out there who have sold metal roofing into the agricultural and commercial / industrial markets for years and they are just trying to shift those same products and practices over to the residential arena. That is leading to problems. We need more companies like Bauer Roofing that understand residential metal roofing and can meet the needs of homeowners.

Q: That’s interesting. What kind of problems have you seen?
A: One common problem we’ve seen is steel roofs being installed over battens instead of solid decking. While that can work with a large building has a lot of air exchange, it will lead to condensation and even mold problems on most houses.

Q: Any other issues you’ve seen?
A: Yes. Sometimes homeowners are not getting the products they think they are getting. They see websites full of beautiful metal roofs with different designs and all hidden fasteners but then they end up with a corrugated piece of steel that has exposed screws all over on it. That’s when the disappointment begins to set in and then it can really accelerate down the road if they have problems with those fasteners which are notorious for backing out and even allowing water infiltration.

Q: That’s not good. You keep mentioning steel roofing yet our company offers primarily aluminum. Care to comment on the difference?
A: Sure. I talk about steel because that is the bulk of the market. However, aluminum is a great way to go, especially if someone is in a coastal area. Once a homeowner has made the decision to invest in a metal roof, investing a little extra to upgrade to aluminum which will never rust, can be a wise choice.

Q: Very good. Thank you for your time today. Any parting words?
A: Again, it’s great that homeowner know more about metal roofing and they’re seeking it out. I just cannot stress enough how important it is for them to work with an experienced company like yours that fully understands and appreciates the nuances and intricacies of choosing and using a product that is right for them and their home. Otherwise, they run the risk of a significant investment with disappointing results.

Metal Roofing is Getting Big in South Carolina

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:13:00 -0400

Along the coast of South Carolina are some of the most beautiful homes in the world. Some of them, dating back hundreds of years, are exquisite in their architecture and demanding in their standards.

Modern builders, on the most part, are careful to use materials, including roofing, that can withstand hurricanes.

So, as a homeowner, you should be just as careful. As South Carolinians we have avoided major storms for the last few years, but we never know when the next Hugo will come. If you are in the market for a new roof then seriously consider putting on a roof that will not only keep your house dry during normal seasons, but also during Tropical Storms and Hurricanes.

The right roofing system will be able to weather storms with wind gusts up to 120 m.p.h (A Category Three Hurricane has Winds 111-130 miles per hour (FEMA)).

But here in the deep south, not only are we dealing with potential storms, we are fighting to keep our houses cool. It is normal to have weeks of 100+ heat indexes each year. But do you realize that if it is 100 outside then it is 150+ in your attic. Whether you put white 3-tab shingles or black architectural shingles, the fact is that they are both still asphalt shingles. Which means they absorb heat all day long and release into your attic all night long.

At what point in the night, after one of those typical summer days, can you go in the attic and it not be scalding hot? Exactly.

What is the solutions? Is there a product that can both guard our homes from strong storms and keep it from melting in the summer? Yes.

The answer is metal roofing, but not just any metal, the right kind of metal with the right kind of finish. Most of us when we think of metal roofing we picture the type that is on a Pizza Hut or bank, and it makes our skin crawl just thinking about putting that on our home. Do you really want your house looking like a gas station? Fortunately there are much better options; ones that actually work and keep the house looking like it belongs in a neighborhood, not an industrial park.

I’ve included a couple pictures of a house we did in Charleston. It has the Country Manor Shake by Classic Metal Roofing Systems on it and it turned out great. The homeowners have been very pleased with it’s appearance and function. They have since referred us to a friend of theirs and we just finished installing it. I’ll post pictures of it as they come in.

This house originally had an architectural shingle on it that lasted less than 20 years. The homeowners built this house to retire in and never imagined they would be replacing their 40 year roof less than 20 years later. That seems to be a recurring theme. And actually, when they first called, they were looking for a traditional standing seam metal roof. But after seeing the Country Manor Shake they changed their mind.

More and more homeowners are choosing to have a metal roof installed here in South Carolina. The benefits far out-way the cost, which is substantially higher than asphalt roofing. Homeowners who have sat down and looked at the life cost of owning a metal roof vs an asphalt roof overwhelmingly recommend a metal roof. It might be time for you to start looking at it too.

If you live here in South Carolina, click here to go to the Metal Roofing Solutions by Bauer Roofing website. If you’ll contact our office we will answer any questions you might have and ease your mind about any fears you may have. We would be honored to see if there is anything we can do for you.

All of these are the same house, just close-ups of the dormer. The material is Country Manor Shake and the color is Shake Gray

Country Manor Shake by Classic Metal Roofing Systems: Installed in Columbia, South Carolina

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 16:03:00 -0400

As a roofing company who specializes in metal shingles, we take great pride in the homes that we do. To us they are a masterpiece; a work of art.

Not only do they last decades but they enhance the beauty and value of the homes. There aren’t many roofers who feel this way but I, and the rest of Bauer Roofing, do.

The following pictures are the before and after shots of a house here in Columbia, South Carolina. It is a fantastic house that had an architectural shingle on it that was less than 15 years old. The homeowner assumed, as most of you do, that an architectural shingle would last 30-40 years, and maybe some do, but rarely. From what we’ve seen and been told by homeowners, here in the south asphalt roofs of any type won’t last very long.

This homeowner wanted to put on a roof that not only was energy efficient, but one that would make the house look even better. They chose the Country Manor Shake by Classic Metal Roofing Systems. And, as you can see, the roof turned out great. The color, the style, everything looks incredible.

This particular shingle is made to look like hand-split shakes and is made of aluminum; meaning, it won’t rot, get that black mildew junk on it, or rust. And it comes with a lifetime warranty.

The homeowner, who had high expectations, said it looked even better than he had imagined.

If you are looking for the absolute best roof you can find, this is it. Hands down, this is the best thing we have found to install on a home.

It does come in many colors and two other styles…but they are the same makeup and efficiency.

For more information click on the links above, or to get a representative to look at your project click here to go to the Bauer Roofing Website.

Metal Roofing in and around Charleston, South Carolina

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:59:00 -0400

For those of you along the coast of South Carolina, a good metal roof is a fantastic option. Not only do you have the wind and rain, but you also have the South Carolina heat, albeit, not as bad as Columbia.

There are a few things you want to look out for when choosing a metal roof if you live near the coast:

Type of Metal: Don’t forget that steel will rust, just look around you. Read the warranties on steel metal roofing, which includes Galvalume. Most of the warranties, if not all of them, are void within a mile or so (depends on the manufacturer) of a marine atmosphere. Where in Charleston –considering the rivers and waterways and ocean– are you not within a mile of a marine atmosphere? There are much better options than steel: Aluminum or Copper to begin with. But if you look around you’ll see plenty of steel metal roofs, maybe even on your neighbor’s house. The question is why? If roofers know there are inherent problems with them, why do they keep installing them? For one of two reasons: Either a), they don’t know any better, which is scary in itself or b), because they are cheaper. They don’t inform the homeowner that there is are options out there that won’t rust away in the near future because they are afraid of losing the sale.
Fastening System: Screw-Through Panels vs. Concealed Fasteners. Unfortunately, many of the roofs you see on houses now are nothing but glorified barn tin. Roofers tell homeowners that there is a lifetime warranty on the roof. And there may be on the metal itself, but not on the sytem –screws, grommets, etc… The panel may last for awhile, but it won’t do you a bit of good if, after 10 years, the fasteners have moved so much they are letting water in. The ONLY secure way to fasten a metal roof in South Carolina is with a concealed fastener; something not open to the humidity, heat and salt spray. But again, the reason there are so many screw-through panels being installed on houses is because they are the cheapest type of metal roofing available, and there will always be a market for cheap, crap material.

The question is this: What type of metal roof are you looking for? If you simply want a metal roof because you think all metal roofs are good then do a little more research into it. If you feel like you couldn’t afford a good metal roof, then you may want to stick with the asphalt shingles already on the house, save some more money, and in a few years buy the real thing. It will save you a ton of headaches down the road.

Look into it. Don’t assume all metal roofing is created equal, because it isn’t. You don’t want to install a roof system that you think will last a lifetime and in a few years have to replace it.

For further information on metal roofing and/or to talk with someone about looking at your project click here to be directed to the contact page at Bauer Roofing.

Huge Interest in Metal Roofing

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:21:00 -0400

I want to encourage people to consider looking at metal roofing, but the right types. You can read my previous posts to see what I mean by right types.

Our inbox has been filling up with people interested in metal roofing. It seems the summer heat and storms are starting to get to people, and they want a roof they won’t have to worry about ever again.

Also, there is a resource out there that is free and invaluable. It is from Classic Metal Roofing Systems and covers everything to you need to know when buying a new metal roof. You can find it here.

This is a perfect tool for anyone considering putting on a new roof. It is very detailed and can answer questions you didn’t even know you had.

Look into it. A lot of your neighbors are doing the same thing.

Not All Metal Roofing Is Created Equal

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:20:00 -0400

Every house I go to will inevitably ask me about metal roofing, even if I am there because they called about shingles. Everyone is curious about them. They’ve heard how wonderful they are but think they probably can’t afford them.

Metal Roofing, which was once relegated to only coastal towns, has made it’s way into the mainstream. And along with all of the good parts come the bad.

Because so many people are looking at metal roofing there is a market for cheap, screw-through metal panels. To give you an idea of what this is: Take the tin off of a barn, paint it green and screw it down to someone’s home.

They are infecting neighborhoods like a disease. Once it gets onto one house, it starts spreading, like poison ivy, onto others. Homeowners think they are great because it is a metal roof. The roofing company, for good reason, never told them that this type of metal was never meant for residential application and their house now looks like a cheap carport.

To understand the problem with these types of roofing you have to realize that metal moves, much more so than shingles. It expands and contracts daily; it expands when it heats up during the day and contracts as it cools off at night. Then they take the metal, knowing it will expand and contract, and screw it down permanently to a hot plywood deck and guess what happens? That’s right, over time as it moves, it works those screws loose and the rubber or silicone grommets, which are all that is keeping the house dry, start cracking and allowing water to get in.

You see, those types of metal roofs are fine for a metal structure or barn because they have open framing and rafters. You stick that crap on a house with an attic space and heat build up and it is a disaster waiting to happen. Not to mention the fact that you are putting thousands of holes straight through the metal. Common sense tells us that can’t be good.

There are significant, and obvious, differences between cheap, screw-through metal roofing and real metal roofing. I’ll get into the exact differences in my next few posts, but for now just understand that not all metal roofing is created the same.

Just because it is metal does not mean it is good, or even close to good.