Why a Trusted Palo Alto Roofer Recommends Standing Seam Metal Roofs

The San Francisco Bay Area is characterized by numerous mountains, hills, and large bodies of water. This has led not only to geographical diversity, but also to the creation of numerous microclimates. Santa Clara Valley, where the cities of Sunnyvale and Palo Alto are located, has a Mediterranean semi-arid climate.

Santa Clara Valley experiences relatively high levels of precipitation, as well as foggy, cool summers and mild, rainy winters. As a result, both residential and commercial roofing in the area should be able to withstand high moisture levels and temperature fluctuations. Many licensed roofers in Sunnyvale, like Shelton Roofing, recommend standing seam metal roofs for many reasons.

What are standing seam metal roofs?

Standing seam metal roofs are distinguished from other types of metal roofs by the continuous panels that run from the ridge of the roofs all the way down to the eaves. In between the panels are seams which are connected by fasteners. These are raised above the level of the metal roofing, hence the term standing seam.

Seam fasteners typically range from 0.5” to 1.5” high, and because these fasteners are concealed, viewers will only see a smooth continuous ridge extending from the top to the bottom of the roofing. The individual panels, on the other hand, tend to be from 12 to 19 inches wide, and are usually fashioned from Galvalume-coated steel or aluminum. According to an article from Mother Earth News, “installation of standing-seam metal roofing on 2,500-squarefoot, two-story house (area of the roof estimated at 1,500 square feet), does not include cost of removing old shingles.”

Benefits of installing standing seam metal roofs

In most traditional roofing systems, the seams are the quickest entry point for moisture, which can be a disaster in a region that receives as much precipitation as the Santa Clara Valley. Standing seam metal roofs have no horizontal seams, and this roofing system generally has fewer seams. Aside from providing a lower risk of water penetration, standing seam metal roofs are also lightweight (which reduces structural stress) and are low maintenance.

For those who are interested in enhancing the curb appeal of their homes, standing seam metal roofing installed by a reputable Palo Alto roofer can give any home a unique aesthetic appeal. It is considered ideal for many contemporary and country-style homes, and due to their versatility, can be molded into complex shapes, like waveform curves and tapers. Lastly, roof penetrations such as rooflights, access hatches, and smoke vents can be installed without compromising this roofing system.

(Article Information and Image from Eco-Friendly Roofing Options; Mother Earth News)