Choosing a metal roofing sheet is an important decision that will affect not only the appearance, but also the functionality and durability of the roof. But how do you know that the metal roofing you choose will be of really high quality? One of the key parameters that you should focus on is the thickness of the sheet.
Why is the thickness of the sheet important?
The thickness of the sheet directly affects its strength, resistance to mechanical damage and ability to withstand weather conditions. The thicker the sheet, the greater its resistance to:
- Deformation caused by snow or wind pressure.
- Corrosion - thicker sheet metal usually has better quality protective layers.
- Damage during installation - thinner sheets can easily be scratched or dented.
The standard thickness of the sheet metal used for roofing ranges from 0.4 mm to 0.60 mm, but higher thickness is usually an indicator of higher quality and longer durability.
How does thickness affect the durability of the roof?
In addition to the thickness of the sheet metal itself, the quality of the surface layers also plays an important role. Sheet metal roofing is usually provided with:
- A zinc layer – protects the steel core from corrosion. The glossy coating has a zinc coating thickness of 225 g/m2, the matte coating - 245 g/m2, the grande matte coating - 275 g/m2.
- A polyester or polyurethane coating – provides an aesthetic appearance and increases resistance to UV radiation and mechanical damage. The glossy coating has a protective polyester coating layer of 25 microns, the matte coating has 35 microns, the grande matte coating has 50 microns.
In conclusion, we can say that the larger the layer of zinc and polyester coating on the sheet metal roof, the better the material and the longer the service life of this roof.
In cheaper roofing with a lower thickness, the protective layer may be of lower quality, which leads to faster material degradation.
Other signs of quality sheet metal roofing
1. Manufacturer's warranty
- Reputable manufacturers provide a warranty of 10 or more years on their products. A long warranty is a sign of confidence in the quality of the material. Keep in mind that many sheet metal roofing manufacturers may have different warranties. The warranty on the zinc and polyester surface treatment of sheet metal roofing cannot be higher than the stated warranty of the sheet metal manufacturer itself. For example, the Arcelor Mittal plant - the world's largest sheet metal manufacturer - provides an official warranty against rusting of a glossy coating - 10 years, a matte coating - 15 years and a grande matte coating - 30 years. Therefore, the warranty of the sheet metal roofing manufacturer cannot be higher than the stated warranty of the sheet metal manufacturer itself.
2. Origin of the sheet metal
- Quality sheets come from proven suppliers. Avoid unknown manufacturers who often use less durable materials.
3. Type of surface treatment
- Matt, coarse-grained or glossy coatings not only affect the appearance, but also protect the sheet metal from environmental influences.
4. Technical certifications
- Look for sheets with quality certificates that guarantee compliance with technical standards.
How to choose the right sheet metal thickness for your roof?
When choosing the sheet metal thickness, consider:
- Climate conditions - in areas with high snow loads or strong winds, a thicker sheet metal is recommended (min. 0.50 mm).
- Roof slope - on steeper roofs there is less risk of snow loads, and therefore a thinner covering can be used.
- Type of construction - for family houses and permanent structures, it is worth investing in a higher-quality covering with a greater thickness.
Final recommendation
A sheet metal roof is a long-term investment that should last for decades. By choosing a roofing with sufficient thickness and a high-quality surface finish, you will not only ensure a longer service life, but also better protection for your home.
If you are not sure which metal roofing to choose, do not hesitate to contact the experts at Roofer Roofing Center. We will be happy to advise you and help you choose the best option for your project.
Metal roofing? Look for quality – and the thickness of the sheet metal is a good guide!
