Although some roofs are installed with only practicality in mind, other homeowners desire an aesthetically-pleasing roof that still provides the necessary functionality. One of the best examples of this is curved metal roofs which used to be more common on commercial buildings but have now gained momentum for residential spaces too. Curved metal roofing offers a perfect blend between form and function, making them ideal for both modern and traditional homes alike!
At TruCare Restoration & Roofing, we don’t provide curved metal roofing panels – but our team is more than happy to answer any questions you have! In this article, let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of installing a curved metal roof on your home or commercial building.
What Is A Curved Metal Roofing?
The modern, contemporary look of curved metal roofing – otherwise known as a radius roof – is quickly making it the go-to option for residential roofs. Gone are the days of an angular or flat pitch; instead, homeowners now prefer arched roofs to give their homes a more stylish and sophisticated appeal.
As an accent or to cover the entirety of a roof, curved metal roofing is popularly used in both residential and commercial construction. When it comes to homes, you’ll typically see these roofs adorning bay windows, porches, and entryways – places where adding visual interest makes sense. Meanwhile, public buildings such as churches, aviation facilities, and arenas alike benefit from fully curved metal roofs that create distinctive silhouettes on the skyline.
Types Of Curved Roofing
Alternately known as “round roofs”, curved roofs can be designed to either concave or convex. The majority of curved rooftops have a downward “U” shape, but you may occasionally come across one that is convex-shaped – these types of architectures appear like a wave (as shown in the gray corrugated image above).
How to Curve Metal Panels: Choosing the Right Direction.
Metal roofing panels can be shaped to bend in two distinctive directions – the hard way and the simple way.
Curving Panels In The Hard Direction
Quite often, curved metal roofing panels are designed in the hard direction – with the curve running from eave to ridge.
Advantage – The roof’s curve mirrors the pitch, guiding rainwater off the roof with precision.
Disadvantage – Curving a panel in this manner is an expensive endeavor.
Curving Panels In The Easy Direction
It is also possible to form metal roofing into a gentle arc from gable to gable. This uncommon style of roofing can create an eye-catching addition and make your home stand out amongst the rest!
Advantage – If the slope of your roof isn’t sharp, the panels may be able to curve and bend with it! This will dramatically lower expenses.
Disadvantage -The grade of the curve will be opposed to the pitch of your sloping roof, resulting in an obstacle with drainage containment.
How Much Does Curved Roofing Cost?
Curved metal roofing can be pricey. If you need only a few panels, the cost of curving is likely to exceed the price tag for the actual materials. With larger orders, however, count on at least one extra dollar per square foot—and even steeper shipping and labor expenses!
What’s The Availability Of A Curved Roof?
Curving metal roofing panels necessitates an outlay of considerable funds for the machines and labor, not to mention only a limited number of metal roofs are curved. Consequently, it can be difficult to locate a supplier that has the capability to curve your material. There are companies who will offer this service but options are quite restrained.
How Is Curved Metal Roofing Made?
To construct a curved roof panel, individual steel sheets are passed through a roll-forming machine to form the desired profile. These panels then go through an additional step in the process – they receive their curvature via a specialized radius machine that allows for precise bending of each metal pane. This ensures that all panels fit together perfectly and create one cohesive unit.
What Are The Benefits Of A Curved Metal Roof?
- Aesthetic Appeal
- Durability
- Energy Efficient
- Low Maintenance
Aesthetic Appeal
Undeniably, the most noteworthy advantage of curved metal roofing is its stunning visual allure. An arched metal rooftop can transform any architectural design into an eye-catching one. Although it’s getting more trendy these days, this type of roof still remains rare which makes them even more remarkable and unconventional. Employing curves as an accent will bring texture to your house, especially when combined with flatter roofs for contrast.
Durability
Are you questioning if the curved forming has a harmful effect on the sturdiness of your metal roof? You can be sure that a rounded metal roof offers equivalent strength, impact resistance, rot-proofing, thickness, and fire rating as any other type of metallic covering. Metal is an accommodating material that bends without risking its structural integrity.
Energy Efficient
Arched-style metal roofing is not only durable but also as energy efficient and environmentally friendly as traditional metal roofing. In addition to withstanding wear and tear over time, this type of curved roof may even reduce your heating/cooling costs!
Low Maintenance
Similar to a traditional metal roof, be it steel, copper or aluminum, curved metal roofing are highly easy to upkeep. Through occasional inspections and maintenance when required, you can rest assured that your roof will endure for up to 60+ years!
Curved Metal Roofing Considerations
Curved Metal Roofing Considerations
- Transportation Issues
- Snow Retention System Required
- More Difficult Installation
Transportation Issues
Curved metal panels, due to their curved shape, may consume more space than conventional metal sheets. This can lead to additional transportation expenses or even the possibility of damage caused by shipping it from place to place. To avoid these issues some choose onsite roll forming which bends the panel at its job location for easier transport and safer handling!
Installing Snow Retention Systems In Certain Climates
Metal roof systems boast a slick surface that is superior to other conventional roofing materials like asphalt shingles. Furthermore, the curved radius of these roofs allow precipitation – particularly when coupled with high-pitched surfaces – to come off even faster. This not only helps prevent leaks but also leaves snow and ice accumulation at bay; however, if these rooftops are neglected for too long in terms of fitting them with adequate snow retention systems then an avalanche becomes very likely which can cause grave damage or harm those below it.
More Difficult Installation
To guarantee the durability of your curved metal roof, hire a licensed and experienced contractor who is familiar with installing these panels. This installation requires more time than that of a traditional pitch metal roof, so be sure to select someone skilled in this field for the job!
Choosing The Right Metal Panel For Your Roof
When it comes to deciding on the shape of your new metal roof, you’ll need to consider which panel profile is most suitable. Corrugated panels or standing seam panels are both popular options depending on cost, installation requirements, aesthetics and performance – all contributing factors in making a wise decision for the future of your home.