For the most part, there are two types of roofs: pitched and flat. Used mostly for industrial, commercial, or manufacturing facilities, flat roofing choices aren’t as plentiful as pitched roofs. Made mostly of bitumen, rubber membranes, or even tar, these roofs have a very slight slope to ensure the water drains away.
There can’t be any spaces, seams, cracks, etc. or else water will find a way through. Ponding is a huge issue, although some flat roofs drain to the middle of the roof to a drain system. There are some residential flat roofs, but slope roofing is much more common.
With pitched roofs, taking water away from the home is a much easier proposition. The steeper the slope, the easier it is for rainwater and other precipitation to find its way to the gutters. If it isn’t a very steep slope, water may not drain away as well, causing issues.
When choosing a roofing covering, it’s important to know what the slope of your roof is. Although different jurisdictions may have different regulations, even flat roofs must have a general slope of at least ¼ inch rise for every 12 inches. From there, different roof surfaces need different slopes.
Metal roofing systems, such as a standing seam roof or a corrugated metal roof, are ideal for low-slope applications that aren’t “flat” roofs. These metal panels come in large sheets that cover the length of your roof from your ridge to your gutter. This means there are fewer opportunities for water to get under the material.
Another advantage of the standing seam or corrugated roof panels is the rainwater is channeled to equalize the weight of the water on the roof. It also minimizes large ponding, providing more protection for the roofing material. For these panels, the generally approved slope is at least 2 inches per 12 inches. More slope is obviously better, though.
For aluminum shingles, the slope reaches 3 inches for every 12 inches. There are more seams and fasteners with shingles, so it makes sense to have a steeper pitch than with the panels. However, this slope can be minimized if additional sealants or special underlayments are used.
For a little perspective, asphalt or composition shingles need a minimum of four inches of slope per 12 inches. The minimum slope for slate and clay tiles is 4 inches per 12 inches and for slate shingles. These pitches may be lessened with approved underlayments. Please check with the codes and specifications in your area.
Advantages of Aluminum Roofing
In most residential cases, the slope of the roof covering the home isn’t a concern because they are built specifically for traditional shingles. No matter the slope, metal roofing offers the best long-term protection for your home. In terms of longevity and variety.
Mountaintop Metal Roofing materials and installation are made to stand the test of time. With little to no maintenance, this is truly a “set it and forget it” upgrade. We offer a lifetime warranty with every project. Non-prorated and transferable, we’re confident you’ll never have to worry about your roof again.
Mountaintop Metal Roofing offers a range of products from Permalock, one of the most trusted roof manufacturers in the industry. From smooth, woodgrain, and slate shingles to cedar shake and standing seam profiles, we have the look you’re, well, looking for. With more than 200 colors to choose from and different finishes, we will be able to match any architecture.
In the market for a new roof, whether out of necessity or to improve the look of your home, contact Mountaintop Metal Roofing for a free estimate. Unlike other roof contractors, aluminum roofing is all we do. When working with us, you can be confident that the job will be done right the first time.