Choosing the Right Metal Roof Style and Colour for Your Building's Architecture

Metal roofs are becoming a popular choice for both residential and commercial buildings due to their durability, longevity, and energy efficiency. When choosing a metal roof, two major decisions are what style of metal roofing to use and what colour to get it in. Here is an overview of the main styles of metal roofing and tips on choosing the right metal roof colour for custom architectural metal fabrication.

Metal Shake or Slate Roofs

Metal shake or slate roofing is designed to mimic the look of cedar shake roofing and natural slate but with the strength and longevity of metal. Metal shakes or slate shingles come in individual shingles made to look like wood shakes or natural slate. They have deep shadow lines and texture to increase the realism. Metal shake and slate roofing is available in a wide range of colours, from neutral greys and browns to vibrant reds and greens. They provide the charm and aesthetic of natural wood shakes without the fire risk and without the higher maintenance required for their natural counterparts.

How to Choose the Right Colour for Metal Roofing

When selecting a colour for a metal roof, you'll want to consider the style of your home or building. For traditional-style homes, more muted natural tones like greys, browns, and beiges tend to work well. For contemporary buildings, you may want to make more of a statement with bold reds, blues, or greens. Here are some tips for choosing a metal roof colour:

• Consider the other exterior colours like siding or brick. Complementary or contrasting colours can achieve different aesthetics.
• Factor in the surrounding landscape and environment. Earthy tones blend in more naturally.
• Look at colour sample chips on the actual metal to get an accurate impression of the colour.
• Opt for lighter colours if you want the roof to absorb less heat from sunlight.
• Think about your gutters and trim. Matching or coordinating those colours will make it look more cohesive.

Metal Dimensional Shingle Roofs

Metal dimensional shingle roofing mimics the layered look of asphalt shingles but with metallic colours and durability. The dimensional shingles come in individual panels with shingle-like ridges that create shadows and visual depth. They are a great option to match homes with existing asphalt roofs. The metal dimensional shingles come in colours like gray, beige, brown, and red. They can be a very affordable metal roofing choice.

Spanish Metal Tile Roofing

Spanish tile metal roofing recreates the Mediterranean look of curved clay tiles. The elongated S-shaped metal panels overlap neatly and require special installation. Spanish tile metal roofing comes in terra cotta reds, oranges, and yellows for the southwestern mission look. Softer shades of red and brown are also options. Another option is an exotic metal like copper or lead or zinc coated copper. This elegant roofing can enhance the curb appeal of Spanish or Italian architecture styles beautifully.

How to Decide if a Metal Roof is Right for Your Building

When weighing a metal roof, consider these factors:

• Cost - Metal roofing is durable and long-lasting but has a higher upfront cost than asphalt shingles.
• Lifespan - Metal roofs typically last 50+ years, making them a worthwhile investment.
• Maintenance - Metal roofs require very minimal ongoing maintenance compared to other roof types.
• Weather - Metal roofs can withstand high winds, rain, snow, and hail storms. A good option for harsh climates.
• Energy efficiency - Reflective metal roofing can reduce cooling costs by reflecting heat away from the building.
• Aesthetics - Metal roofing comes in a wide range of colours and styles to complement any building's look.

If you can afford the higher initial investment, a metal roof is a smart choice thanks to its durability, weather resistance, energy savings, and beautiful appearance. 

Signs You Need a Roof Replacement

If your roof is showing any of these signs, it may be time for full replacement:

• Visible sagging in the roof deck
• Leaks or water damage on ceilings and walls
• Dark streaks on the roof from algae or moss growth
• Curling, cracked, or missing shingles
• Holes from hail damage or physical impact

Factors Impacting the Integrity of Your Roof

Many factors can compromise the condition of your roof over time:

• Weather exposure to sun, wind, rain, hail, and snow places stress on roofing materials.
• Changing temperatures cause expansion and contraction that can warp shingles.
• Dead leaves and debris attract moisture and algae growth.
• Heavy foot traffic from maintenance can damage materials.
• Ventilation issues lead to moisture buildup and rotting.
• Improper initial installation may lead to premature failures.

Determining the Damage Level of the Roof

A professional roof inspection is recommended to determine how much damage the roof has sustained:

• Surface issues like curling shingles may only require minor repairs.
• Localized leakage may need new flashing around vents or skylights.
• Extensive soft spots or sagging usually indicate the need for total replacement and wood deck repairs.
• Multiple layers of roofing materials will require complete tear-off.

The Age of the Roof

The older a roof is, the more likely replacement is needed:

• Asphalt shingles typically last 15 - 20 years before replacement is recommended.
• Wood shake roofs tend to need replacement after 10-15 years.
• Metal and tile roofs can often last 50 years or longer before replacement.

Replacing a Roof for Restoration and Other Purposes

Roof replacements are not always due to damage. Other reasons include:

• Restoring historic architecture with period-appropriate materials.
• Improving energy efficiency with modern reflective roofing.
• Updating the style or colour of the roof.
• Completing an exterior renovation.
• Fixing improperly installed roof materials or construction issues.

Contact Heather and Little for Custom Architectural Metal Fabrication and Metal Roofing for Your Building

Heather and Little specializes in precision custom metal fabrication and installation of metal roofing, cornices, cupolas, and other architectural details. Contact us today for a quote on restoring or enhancing your building with beautiful, durable metalwork and roofing and custom architectural metal fabrication.