Beyond the Michigan Home: Metal Roofing for Sheds and Other Structures

Advancements in metal roofing, including improved appearance and a wider range of styles than ever before, have led to an increased use of metal roofing in residential projects. To be sure, metal roofing that has the appearance of custom, high-quality shingles lends itself perfectly to an array of residential home applications that would have been unheard of years ago. However, in many areas, metal roofing has been predominantly found on agricultural buildings for much longer.

With so many residential uses alongside traditional agricultural uses – and considering all the user benefits of metal roofing – perhaps it isn’t surprising that metal roofing has made its way onto a number of other structures as well. What are some other common uses for metal roofing? Should you be considering a metal roof for your next project? Read on to find out if metal roofing could be for you.

What Is Modern Metal Roofing?

Metal roofing has come a long way since the corrugated sheet metal you used to see on outbuildings and agricultural structures. Back then, metal roofing was sometimes little more than a watertight, overlapping row of sheet metal panels, designed to keep out the elements and little else. Now, however, metal roofing has achieved several technological advances necessary to make it a suitable – and even preferred – option for residential applications.

Today’s modern metal roofing boasts a series of layers designed to keep the elements out and your heating and cooling in. The result is a roof sealed to provide an essential waterproof barrier and coated with a stone-based coating to prevent damage from even the largest falling limbs and hail. Higher quality product results in a roof that will withstand an assault from Mother Nature no matter what application you choose it for.

The other advance important no matter what your final product, is the multiple style options available today that simply were not possible in years past. Modern metal roofing can take on the look of traditional dimensional asphalt shingles, wood shakes, and even clay tiles, and provide any structure you install it on with a look fit for a beautiful home. The other buildings on your property can enjoy the same beautiful roofing treatment as your home, with the durability, cost-saving measures, and trust you’d find in a metal roof.

Varied Applications for Modern Metal Roofing

Just as consumers in multiple industries found that metal roofing had advantages that could translate to the residential home sector with a few changes in appearance, residential homeowners are finding that the benefits of metal roofing apply to multiple types of buildings on their properties. In addition, the style upgrades of modern metal roofing serve to improve the look of other roofs as well as lend cohesiveness for a variety of structures on the same property.

Consider this list of other projects that could make the transition from corrugated sheet metal or old, outdated asphalt shingles to modern, residential-look metal roofing:

• Barns and sheds. As mentioned, barns and other agricultural buildings were among the first to enjoy the benefits of metal roofing. However, as we’ve pointed out, today’s metal roofing options are vastly improved from the corrugated sheet metal you usually find on barns. If you have a barn on your property that needs a new roof, consider high-quality metal roofing that matches the style of your home’s roof or complements its color.

Overall, the longevity of metal roofing is what puts metal head and shoulders above other methods of roofing for the barns and agricultural buildings on your property. Some metal roofs can last up to 60 years, meaning that this may be the last time you have to replace your roof. So, why not make it as attractive and weather-resistant as possible?

In addition, the contents of your barn or shed – whether animal, machinery, or something else – are stored there because they need protection from the elements. Metal roofing remains one of the best in the business when it comes to waterproofing, and shields your investments from high winds, debris, and extreme temperatures even better than traditional roofing shingles.

• Carports and detached garages. For these essential buildings, it is more important than ever to choose a roofing material that closely matches the roofing on your own home. Why? Their proximity to your home itself makes a match or complementary color scheme essential. A carport should look like an extension of your home, or at least like a small complementary structure that belongs in its location.

In addition, your carport or garage is charged with protecting one of your most high-value possessions – your car. The roof on your carport, therefore, must stand up to the elements to protect your car from hail and damage from falling limbs. High wind ratings, to prevent your carport or garage roof from lifting off and either falling on your car or exposing it to the elements, are also essential. Most modern metal roofs are rated for winds in excess of 100 miles per hour.

• Gazebos and decorative buildings. For gazebos, picnic shelters, and other decorative outbuildings, the look is a primary concern. While you may not desire a look identical to your home’s roofing material as you would with a carport or detached garage, gazebos are structures that exist primarily to provide aesthetic appeal to your yard and landscape design. Thus, it is important to choose a roof that either closely matches or complements your property’s existing roof.

Metal roofing comes in a variety of styles, including wood-look shake, clay tile, and dimensional shingles. Or, for a more rustic appeal, corrugated metal is available in a number of colors and finishes, including copper, tin, and more. Your ultimate choice depends on your personal style, any homeowners association in your area, and the fairly endless array of colors available through your provider.

Although insulation and waterproofing are of somewhat less importance with gazebos compared to other applications, you’ll still want a durable, affordable roof that will last. Fortunately, metal roofing is one of the most durable roofing options. In addition, metal roofs are fireproof, wind resistant, and resistant to weathering.

Conclusion

The applications for metal roofing are practically limitless. No matter what buildings you have on your property, you’ll find a metal roof durable enough to protect it. The style benefits of modern metal roofing far outstrip its predecessors, leaving you with a beautiful roof that complements the style of your home and won’t require replacement for years to come.