FAQS
Cost
How does a metal roof compare in cost with other roofing materials?
Environmental
How will a metal roof stand up to extreme weather?
A metal roof can withstand decades of abuse from extreme weather like high winds, heavy snow, hailstorms, and even fires. Under high wind conditions, a well installed metal roofing system will have high wind resistance well in excess of SANS requirements.
What will happen to a metal roof in a lightning storm?
What about fire?
A metal roof is completely non-combustible and provides great protection from external fires. Additionally, the low weight of our products minimises any cave-in threat which might occur with an interior house fire.
What about hail?
Metal does not lose impact resistance with age – unlike most other products which become more susceptible to damage with each passing year. In the event of an especially severe storm, even if an indentation does occur, a metal roof will be as watertight as before.
Is metal roofing energy efficient?
Pre-painted metal roofing in the light colour range together with low thermal mass, means that it cools down quickly after a long hot summer day, providing cooler interiors. Conversely during the winter a highly insulated roof system responds quickly to retain heat within the structure and provide immediate comfort.
Is a metal roof environmentally-friendly?
A metal roofing system is a green roof – it is made from material with a recycled content of up to 60% and its long service life guarantees sustainability. Add in energy efficiency and the ability to be installed over most existing roofs (avoiding landfill disposal of old materials) and you have what is likely the most environmentally-friendly roof available to homeowners!
Is water run-off from a metal roof potable?
Yes, the water run-off from our products meets the World Health Organisation Standards testing. However, rainwater is variable across regions; atmospheric conditions should be considered in actual use. Water collected during the first or second rain fall after extended dry periods can be contaminated by dirt accumulation.
How to choose the right roof for my home/building
Metal roofing seems to have a lot of options; how can I sort my way through everything?
Safintra will work closely with you to choose the best roof for the purpose. One of the great things about metal roofing is the wide variety of products available. Our team is here to assist you!
Are all metal-coated or pre-painted steel sheets of the same quality?
Are different materials recommended for different environmental conditions.
Why use factory pre-painted metal roofing?
Installation
What type of fastener (screw) should be used?
Must metal flashings be used or would waterproofing be sufficient?
Despite the advances in modern day external waterproofing products the harmful rays of the sun will eventually play havoc with their efficacy. These types of products, albeit very effective, should ideally be protected from prolonged exposure to the sun, so a metal flashing becomes the obvious solution.
Is metal roofing noisier than other roofing?
The “clicking” of a metal roof is mostly due to thermal expansion and contraction and is difficult to silence without insulation. When installed with quality insulation, you can also dampen the noise from rain, hail and bad weather as well – if not better – than that of any other roofing material.
Is a metal roof heavy?
A metal roof is, on average, 75% lighter than concrete tile and slate. This, coupled with the geometry of a profiled roof sheet, and its high strength to weight ratio, means that even the substructure can be much lighter, using far less purlins / battens than a clay tile roof.
Can one walk on a metal roof?
Yes. And metal roofs don’t lose their strength over time, making them as safe as when they were new. For heavy foot traffic we recommend walkways are installed over the roof – ask us for advice.
In case of renovation does an existing roof need to be removed to install a new metal roof?
Not necessarily. In most situations, a new metal roof can be installed directly over an old metal roof. Ask Safintra about the Ash-Grid over roofing solution which is both cost effective and highly efficient for insulation purposes, in line with new building legislation governing thermal efficiencies of buildings. It is a huge plus that a well-insulated roof on a well-designed building will dramatically reduce your energy bills!
What can I do to protect cut edges of metal sheets?
What should be done if the paint gets scratched?
Where do I find a reputable contractor/ could I install the product myself?
Safintra SA has a panel of approved installers that specialise in sheet metal roofing installations. Many will also offer you an installation warranty which gives you peace of mind.
Service Life
What is the lifespan of a metal roof?
Can I get a warranty on my Safintra metal roof?
What maintenance does a metal roof require?
Although metal roofing in itself is well protected from the elements, preventative maintenance is required to ensure optimal performance. This includes periodic inspections of the roof as well as regular washing down of pre-painted roofing with a hose pipe and plain water. Do not use hard brushes that will scratch the surface.