A leak in the roof is a huge problem. It doesn’t only affect the spot where it’s located, nor are its effects even limited to the roof. From wood rot to corrosion, mold growth to foundation damage, leave a leak alone long enough and you’ll be spending thousands of dollars fixing or replacing everything it’s affected.
To protect your home from water damage, your metal roof is either water-resistant or water-shedding. There are differences between the two roofing systems:
Water-Shedding or Hydrokinetic Roofs
The design of a water-shedding or hydrokinetic roof gives it the ability to shed water quickly using gravity. It needs a slope of at least 3:12. The steeper the slope of the roof, the faster it can shed water. Most residential roofs have a slope of 4:12 up to 9:12.
A water-shedding roof still needs some help in keeping water out. A roofing contractor achieves this by installing a solid deck with a membrane or a moisture barrier for cover. For best results, the moisture barrier should be at least #30 felt. Though pricier, a peel-and-stick membrane is more resistant to tears.
Your metal roofing contractor is likely to discourage you from using intricate trim details and roofing profiles to reduce the chances of water penetration. It is also advisable to limit the number of hips, valleys and other such details.
The Benefits of Water-Shedding or Hydrokinetic Roofs
Investing in water-shedding or hydrokinetic roofs provides a host of benefits, including:
- Effective water drainage — The primary benefit of water-shedding roofs is their ability to effectively manage rainwater with little to no help. The sloped design allows water to naturally slide off, preventing pooling and the associated risks of water damage. This is especially advantageous in areas with heavy or frequent rainfall.
- Durability and longevity — Due to their efficient drainage, water-shedding roofs typically have a longer lifespan than most other roof types. By minimizing water accumulation, they effectively reduce the risk of moisture-related issues, such as rot, mold, and corrosion, ensuring your roof remains in good condition for a long time.
- Low maintenance requirement — With less standing water, water-shedding roofs require less maintenance compared to flat roofs. They are designed to naturally minimize the build-up of debris, moss, and algae, reducing the need for frequent cleaning and repairs.
- Aesthetic variety — Water-shedding roofs not only come in various shapes but can also be covered with a wide range of materials like shingles, tiles and metal, allowing them to match an impressive range of house styles.
- Energy efficiency — The attic space created by sloped roofs provides room for effective insulation. This, in turn, can enhance the energy efficiency of your home, keeping it warmer in winter and cooler in summer, ultimately reducing your energy costs.
- Increased interior space — In addition to providing room for effective insulation, sloped roofs also typically create additional attic space, which you can use for storage or convert into extra living space.
- Weather resistance — The slope on water-shedding roofs makes them generally more resistant to adverse weather conditions, allowing them to handle wind better than flat roofs, reducing the likelihood of damage during storms.
- Architectural appeal — Water-shedding roofs contribute significantly to a home’s overall aesthetic appeal. Their dynamic shapes and angles can create visually striking profiles, enhancing your home’s curb appeal and potentially increasing its value.
- Compatibility with solar panels — Despite a common misconception, sloped roofs can effectively accommodate solar panels. Modern mounting systems enable secure and efficient installation, allowing homeowners to harness solar energy while enjoying all the benefits that come with a sloped roof.
The Benefits of Hydrostatic or Water-Resistant Roofs
Water-resistant roofs bring an equally impressive list of benefits to the table as their water-shedding counterparts, including:
- Enhanced durability — Water-resistant roofs are specifically designed to withstand moisture and rain without the need for a steep slope, significantly reducing the risk of water damage. This durability not only ensures a longer lifespan for the roof but also protects your home from leaks that may cause structural damage.
- Mold and mildew resistance — By keeping moisture at bay, water-resistant roofs inhibit the growth of mold and mildew. This allows them to help maintain a healthier indoor environment and prevent fungi-induced structural damage.
- Improved energy efficiency — Water-resistant roofs often include materials that provide better insulation. This can help maintain a consistent temperature inside your home, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling and ultimately helping you save on energy costs.
- Increased property value — A water-resistant roof can also help increase the value of your home. It can be an attractive feature for potential buyers who see it as built-in protection against the elements and costly water damage.
- Different styles to choose from — Modern water-resistant roofs come in various styles and colors, so you should be able to find one that perfectly suits your needs and preferences.
- Minimal maintenance — Just like water-shedding roofs, water-resistant roofs also require less upkeep.
- Compatibility with roof gardens and green roofs — Finally, water-resistant roofs are ideal for supporting roof gardens or green roofs. They provide a robust foundation that can handle the extra weight and moisture without compromising your home’s structural integrity.
Water-Resistant or Hydrostatic Roofs
A water-resistant or hydrostatic roof seals the roofing system and blocks out moisture. This is necessary if your roof has a low slope or if it has many trims and architectural details, including hips, valleys and gables. As water naturally flows downward, it will enter any opening it finds, so water-resistance is important.
If your roof slope is less than 3:12, it needs to be hydrostatic. Likewise, water resistance is necessary if some areas or panels of your roof are lower than other materials and might allow water to pool. A standing seam metal roof is the most water-resistant type of roof.
Condensation can still form even if your roof is water-resistant. To prevent this problem, make sure your roofing system has enough ventilation and plenty of insulation.
Find the Best Roofing for Your Home with Hinkle Roofing
Whether you decide to go with a water-shedding or water-resistant roof for your home, our team of highly capable roofing specialists has got you covered. As Alabama’s preferred roofing experts since 1908, we have all the tools and know-how to help you find the perfect roof for your home based on your specific needs and preferences — and we’ll even take care of installing and maintaining it for you.
Get in touch with Hinkle Roofing to discuss your metal roofing needs, including gutters. We are a trusted residential roofing company. Call us today at (205) 324-8545 or fill out the form here.
