In past, steel roofing was not commonly used. However, steel roofing is gaining popularity because of its features. This roofing is durable, light in weight, maintenance-free, fire resistant and energy efficient. Steel roofing can be laid in many other style or shape of roofing.
Steel is inherently a non explosive material and hence it’s resistant to fire. Radiant heat from the sun reflects the metal, which in turn reduces heat gain in the summer. In some cases to reduce the effect of heat from roof, foam and other insulation material may be fitted at the bottom of steel roofing. False ceiling is also provided under the steel roofing to give a good look and insulation. Steel roofing is available in tiles or slate.
Inside view of Steel Roof
(This Picture is Contributed by "Ahmed")
Installation of steel roofing
Installation of steel roofing requires special tools, flat-bladed steel "roof shovel" or a pitchfork to remove any old roof material and nails or screws remained on the roof. It will be better to have a dumpster to contain old roofing material. After removing all old material the roof should thoroughly be cleaned. For laying steel roofing the rolls of steel sheets are laid end to end.
The rolls of steel roofing should have overlap by at least three inches, and overhang the roof by two or three inches on all sides. After completion of roofing felt, attach steel edging strips around the roof. The dual purpose of edging strips is to stop water from seeping beneath your new shingles and to give good appearance.
When you have finished adding your metal edging, you have to snap a chalk line from the crown of your roof to its edges at two feet intervals, and you should take the time to do this even if you think you already understand how to install steel roofing.
By measuring from top to bottom and allowing for an overhang of not less than two inches, you can cut pieces of steel roofing to appropriate length. Take the first piece of steel roofing and align it to the left side of the roof using electric drill and roofing screws to secure it. Place screws two feet apart along inside edge of steel roofing, and on the opposite edge, screw it down away from the edging. Repeat this process with more lengths of roofing until entire surface is covered; this is simple procedure of how to install steel roofing.
Stealing view of villa made of steel roof
(This Picture is Contributed by "Tara Vajpayee")
Advantages of Steel Roofing
- Steel roofing is less expensive.
- It is also fire resistant.
- This type of roofing has long life with less maintenance cost.
- Steel roofing is light in weight as compared to tiles or slate roofing.
- There is no need to reinforce the structure of the steel roof to accommodate increasing loads.
Disadvantages of Steel Roofing
- It produces noise during the rain.
- Steel roofing has rusting problem if proper treatment is not given when needed.
- Problem of heat occurs in steel roofing during summer in hot regions.