Why a Metal Roof for a Wooden Outbuilding Makes So Much Sense

When it comes to constructing or renovating a wooden building, selecting the right roofing material is crucial for maximizing durability, functionality, and efficiency. You may not think of a metal roof for a wooden building, but it makes way more sense than you think, here’s why.

Unmatched Durability: Metal Is Stronger Than Wood

Metal roofing systems offer outstanding durability compared to traditional roofing materials. They are highly resistant to severe weather conditions, including heavy rain, high winds, and snow. For wooden buildings, this means enhanced protection against the elements. Metal roofing can prevent water damage, which is particularly important for wooden structures.

SteelMaster customer Ed K. knows this firsthand.

Ed needed a building that could endure the weather in his hometown of Wisconsin, so he turned to SteelMaster for a durable metal roofing system for his workshop.

Ed ultimately chose a building with a custom roofing system. He credits a SteelMaster engineer with helping him realize his vision for his building.

block quote – “He talked me into going with a heavier gauge steel, sent drawings to me before the steel arrived and took time to answer additional questions and concerns about my design ideas,” Ed says.

Low Maintenance/Upkeep: Never Replace Your Roof

One of the most significant advantages of metal roofing is its low maintenance requirements. Unlike asphalt shingles or wooden shakes that may need regular inspections, repairs, and replacements, metal roofs are designed to last for decades with minimal upkeep.

The inherent properties of metal roofing, including resistance to rust and corrosion (especially with coatings like Galvalume Plus), ensure that your wooden building remains protected with less effort on your part.

Energy Efficiency: Better Than An Insulated Roof

Metal roofs are typically coated with Galvalume Plus, which reflects solar radiant heat and can significantly reduce cooling costs in warmer climates. By keeping your wooden building cooler, you’ll lower your air conditioning expenses and improve overall energy efficiency. This benefit is particularly valuable in regions with hot summers, making metal roofs an energy-efficient choice for wooden structures.

This was also a selling point for Ed, who spends a lot of time in his workshop throughout the year. By installing a metal roof, Ed has been able to maintain a more comfortable indoor temperature, even during peak summer heat. This not only makes his workshop more pleasant to work in but also reduces the strain on his air conditioning system, leading to lower energy bills. For Ed, the enhanced comfort and cost savings are a testament to the practical benefits of choosing a metal roof for his wooden building.

Fire Resistance: Metal Roofs Don’t Burn

Metal roofs offer excellent fire resistance compared to other roofing materials. In the event of a fire, metal roofing does not ignite or contribute to the spread of flames. This fire-resistant quality adds an extra layer of safety to your wooden building, which is especially important if the structure is located in areas prone to wildfires or other fire hazards.

Style & Function: Enhance A Building’s Look

Metal roofing is available in a wide range of styles and colors, allowing you to match or complement the aesthetic of your wooden building. Whether you’re aiming for a modern, sleek look or a more traditional appearance, metal roofing can enhance the visual appeal of your structure while preserving its architectural integrity.

Ed chose a metal roof to complement his SteelMaster-engineered and fabricated roof arches and top wall plate, which attach to the 9’ wood walls he constructed. He selected a style and color that would harmonize with the natural surroundings of his wooded property. To create a warmer tone and blend seamlessly with the environment, Ed opted for wooden exterior walls. He also installed numerous windows to maximize natural light, making the space bright and inviting.

Additionally, Ed built in 32” overhangs to provide practical storage space for hay and firewood, showcasing his attention to both aesthetic detail and functional needs.

Opting for a metal roof on a wooden building combines functionality with aesthetic appeal. The superior durability, minimal maintenance, energy efficiency, and fire resistance of metal roofing make it a practical and sensible choice.

By investing in a metal roof, you enhance the protection and performance of your wooden building while also contributing to its long-term sustainability. When choosing a metal roofing supplier, keep in mind how many years they have been in the industry, and ensure they will engineer your roof to meet your local wind, snow, and seisimic conditions.