Sunday, May 31, 2009

The Advantages of Metal Roofing For Your Log Cabin

A rustic log cabin can be finished off perfectly with a metal roof. The durability and variety of metal roofing materials make this choice for your cabin a great one. Don't be put off by rumors of noisy rain or high cost; a well-built and installed metal roof will reward you with nearly a lifetime's worth of use. Metal roofing is becoming more popular as the public awakens to its beauty, versatility and recyclability.

Metal roofing is more durable than any other roofing material. It is not unheard of for a metal roof to have a 50+ year warranty. Metal can withstand a wide variety of climates, making it one of the best choices for harsher weathers. A metal roof designed for extreme weather is not easily impressed by hail, thunderstorms or blizzards.

The cost of metal roofing is much higher than that of other roofing materials. When the lifespan of metal is taken into account, however, the overall cost of the metal roof ends up being a much better investment. Think of the cost in materials and labor for replacing a conventional roof every 15 years, compared with once every 60!

Metal roofing is also available in a variety of styles and colors. No matter what kind of cabin you own, there is a metal roof out there that can complement its architecture and color scheme. Metal roofs are also resistant to fading, although an attractive patina is observable in older roofs. Today's metal roofing paint can retain over 80 percent of its color after 20 years.

For the "green" minded, many metal roofing companies use materials with a high percentage of recycled materials. One of the greatest advantages of metal is that it lends itself easily to being reused instead of adding more material to a landfill.

One very important advantage to a metal roof is that it is fireproof. For cabins with fireplaces and/or woodstoves, this is an important feature. No matter how dry it is, sparks from the chimney will not ignite your roof. (They can ignite debris on your roof, however, so regular maintenance and cleaning is necessary if your roof is angled to the point where dead leaves, pine needles, etc just slide off.)

Some people complain that their metal roof is noisy. This often occurs when the roof has not been properly insulated. A good metal roofing company can advise you on the best materials and strategies to keeping your roof quieter. However, many people enjoy the sound of rain on their metal roof - not in the least, perhaps, because they know that the chances of a leak are slim to none!

A metal roof system has certain requirements in order to perform at maximum capability. The roof must be able to "breathe", so that accumulated condensation can evaporate or otherwise leave the building. Metal expands and contracts, and the roofing system needs to allow for that with special fastenings. Insulation must be carefully installed and the roof installed securely, if it is to withstand wind and inclement weather. A professional roofer who has experience with metal roofing systems is your best bet to ensure that all the details are taken care of properly.

A metal roof can add beauty and value to your cabin for many years to come. Consider metal for your next roof replacement - it may well be the last roof replacement you ever have to deal with!

Check out RentGeorgiaCabins to see beautiful North Georgia rental cabins. The properties listed include premier Blue Ridge Georgia cabin rentals.

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