Generations have passed, but farming is still one of the crucial jobs for humans. After all, it feeds everyone. Amongst all, farmers have to work for their families and everyone else. And to make things easy and less time-consuming, a lot of innovative ideas have been developed. One of them is using metal barns instead of traditional ones in agriculture.
They are durable, made with robust material, and require little maintenance. The structural strength of a certified steel barn is no match for any traditional farm buildings. However, these barns need a solid foundation and roof to stay put throughout the years. And that brings us to the roof, the first line of defense against all weather conditions.
This blog will show major types of metal barn roof styles, types, and sizes. We will be discussing what matters and what doesn't. So, fasten your seatbelt and dive deep into metal roofs.
Types Of Metal Roofing Styles
What do gable, hip, dutch, pyramid, bonnet, gambrel, dormer, or saltbox have in common? They are all various roofing styles. Although you can design multiple roof styles for your metal barns, we will center our discussion only on the widely used and most popular ones. Now, let's begin…
1. Based On The Type Of Metal Panel
These roofs are structurally more sound than regular shingles. They offer reliable protection and are long-lasting.
1.1 Regular
These are arguably some of the most popular roof styles across various sectors, such as residential or agricultural applications. It has the traditional vibes to it. Metal sheet panels run horizontally from front to back. The edges of the trim are curved inwards. These are the most affordable styles of roofing. However, these are not good for extreme weather systems. It is also not recommended if your steel building's width exceeds 30 ft.
1.2 A-Frame | Horizontal | Box Eave
These are made with horizontal ridges that run parallel to the ground. They look aesthetic and can easily blend in with the surroundings. These are stronger than regular roofing styles. They are similar to regular roofing panels, except the roof stops at the edge. These roofs are favorable for moderate climate areas but not extreme weather.
1.3 Vertical
Here, ridges run perpendicular to the ground. The panels are installed from peak to ground. A ridge cap is then mounted on the top to seal it. This facilitates all kinds of dirt and debris to slide off quickly, cleaning the roof. It is easiest to clean and maintain. These are the most robust roofs that you can get. It can be designed to withstand snowfall up to 20 lbs. per sq. ft. and wind speed up to 150 to 170 mph.
2. Based On The Type Of Roof Structure
2.1 Raised Center | Carolina | Step Down
- These have a raised center aisle and short sections on either side of the metal barn.
- It has an A-frame structure with horizontal ridges.
- It has an upper and a lower roof that encourages ventilation and natural light.
- Its slant design makes snow and rainwater fall off the roof quickly.
- You can get it with both horizontal and vertical roof types.
- e.g., horse barn, cattle farm, agricultural barn, etc.
2.2 Continuous | Seneca | Straight
- These types of roofs have a slope from the center toward the ground.
- The slope of the roof meets at the highest peak.
- These have excellent drainage.
- These are extremely durable for snow and windy areas.
- These have high structural integrity.
- e.g., larger steel structures, commercial or industrial buildings, clear-span buildings, etc.
2.3 Single Slope | Single Pitch
- These are pitched from one side. It has one continuous slope.
- Depending on the steel barn's location, you can get the slope in any direction.
- They slide off rain and snow easily.
- Generally, the pitch is between 5 and 15 degrees, i.e., 4/12 to 3/12. The steepest slope is 6/12.
- e.g., storage, garden shed, chicken coop, solar-mounted shed, loafing shed, etc.
Size Of Metal Barn Roof Styles
Gauge Size
Standard metal roof' gauges that are used in metal buildings are:
- 22 gauge: These are the thickest panels.
- 24 gauge: These are the most commonly used.
- 26 gauge: These are standard metal roof gauges.
- 29 gauge: These are the thinnest panels.
Note: For your reference, your car's hood is approx. 20 gauge and the can soda thickness is 37 gauge.
Length
Metal roofs are generally 8, 10, 12, 16, and 20 ft. long. The sizing may vary with the metal dealer you are buying from.
Width
Most common metal roofing styles have panels between 12 to 18 inches wide. The 16 inches is the one generally used in many cases.
Does the Width Of the Metal Roof Panel Matter?
The more panels you use for the roof, the more chances there are of leakage or debris getting stuck between them. However, you should know that wider panels are easier to upkeep. That's why you will find them in most of the commercial buildings. Wider panels are cost-effective.
In general, the length and width of your metal panels are tailored to your custom building.
Some Facts On Metal Roofs That Will Amaze You
- Reflective roof paint can redirect most sun rays from your metal barns, keeping them cool.
- An insulated roof reduces heat transfer by 25%, so your HAVC system has to work less. Therefore, you end up saving on energy bills.
- The color you choose Can impact the indoor temperature of your metal building. If you want to keep your indoor cool, try painting it with light color. For warmer indoors, choose dark colors that will absorb light.
- The maintenance part is easy and convenient. You can use a garden hose or a pressure washer at the lowest setting.
- Their strength can handle the weight of solar panels as well.
As You Can See…
Metal roofing styles and types are essential and integral parts of all metal barns. The more endurance they have, the stronger their entire structure will be. And as if that was not enough, we can make it more durable by choosing the right size, material, length, design, and style.
Nowadays, various aesthetic options are available to give your steel barns a contemporary or traditional look. Different metal dealers offer a range of colors to choose from. You can camouflage your entire structure or make it stand out – it's entirely your choice.
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