Zinc roofing has been used in the United States since the beginning of the 19th century. Its popularity came and went throughout the decades thereafter, but never entirely faded from the scene. Zinc roofing makes up 70 percent of residential roofs in Europe and is the favorite roofing material of many American architects, as well. There are a wide variety of reasons for its popularity including its application, appearance and overall versatility. Its popularity will most likely increase as homeowners continue to explore the great advantages associated with this unique material.
The Benefits of Zinc Roofing
Zinc roofing makes an extremely wise investment, as it is capable of resisting corrosion through the natural development of its own patina–a dense layer of self-forming zinc carbonate. Through the protection provided by this patina, the durability and longevity of zinc far surpasses that of any other roofing material on today’s market. It is possible for a zinc roof to stay functionally intact for up to 50 years in an urban environment and 100 years in a rural environment. This extraordinary lifespan is approximately fours times that of a traditional steel roof.
In addition, its patina works like a self repair tool, and allows zinc roofing to correct scratches and imperfections, thus eliminating the need for the standard maintenance other roofs require on a regular basis. Zinc roofing is very malleable and can be molded into any type of complex shape, including low radius designs, which is impossible to accomplish with other roofing materials. Initially, it is a bit more expensive; however, most homeowners would agree that given its extraordinary longevity, it makes an extremely cost-effective investment.
Environmental Advantages
When used as a roofing material, zinc offers homeowners many environmental advantages. One such benefit is due to the fact that the amount of energy necessary to produce zinc is substantially lower than all other similar metals. When zinc is produced from recycled materials, the energy consumption required decreases even more than when it is produced from new materials.
Additionally, Zinc is 100 percent recyclable. When recycled, 95 percent of the zinc retains its initial energy content. This means that by the end of its functional life, 100 percent of the zinc can be recycled without losing its initial properties or degrading. Because of its light weight, it also costs much less to ship zinc than brick or stone and this can help to offset its initial cost.
Installation of Zinc Roofing
Although it is easy to install a zinc roof, as the material is generally sold in the form of zinc roofing strips, different areas require certain licenses in order for one to complete major home improvement projects without hiring a contractor. It is also necessary to get a roof inspection prior to the installation, for the purpose of checking for physicochemical compatibility and structural conformity. If one does not comply with such regulations serious damage can result. With this in mind, it is best to employ the services of a professional roofing company.
