Q. What is Met-Tile?
A. Met-Tile is made of 3-ft-wide steel panels, in lengths of two to 20 feet. Since the panels are stepped to create a tile-like appearance, they are commonly referred to as "tile panels" or "tile facsimile panels."

Q. Why consider metal roofing?
A. For many decades, architects, contractors and building professionals everywhere have recognized metal roofing for its low maintenance, superior weather resistance and long life. Met-Tile's tile facsimile panels are the latest generation of metal roofing - functional, durable, and ideally suited to residential use.

Q. What are the advantages of tile panels over conventional roofing products?
A. Asphalt shingles, though reasonably priced, don't deliver the best in looks or performance. Wood shakes, though attractive, don't have the fire resistance sought by homeowners and mandated by many local codes. Tiles, though beautiful, are heavy and difficult to install, sometimes leading to breakage and safety problems. Met-Tile gives you the best of all worlds: the look of tile, plus the light weight and high performance of engineered metal roofing.

Q. How much does Met-Tile weigh?
A. Met-Tile weighs only 125 lb per square or 1.25 lb per square foot. Concrete and clay tiles can weigh up to 10 times as much. This means you can reroof with Met-Tile with no need for costly truss reinforcement. And it's safer than heavy tiles in earthquakes or hurricanes.

Q. What happens to Met-Tile in high winds?
A. Met-Tiles's long-length panels are tightly secured with screw-type fasteners that provide stronger adhesion than nails or glue. They provide proven resistance to winds over 230 mph, both in wind tests and in actual hurricane experience.

Q. What does Met-Tile sound like when it rains?
A. If your house has insulation or a solid deck, the sound of rain or hail will be no more noticeable than with any other type of roofing. In fact, Met-Tile's panel design helps to deaden sound transmission because only a small portion of the roofing actually touches the structure.

Q. How does it perform in extreme temperatures?
A. Met-Tile provides an insulating layer of moving air between the roof and substructure, making your home more energy-efficient in hot or cold weather. In summer, the metal surface reflects away the sun's heat and cools off quickly at night - unlike many roofs, which absorb and retain heat. In winter, Met-Tile effectively sheds snow, preventing snow-loading and ice-damming problems.

Q. What is the fire rating?
A. Based on Uniform Building Code Standard #32-7, Met-Tile is recognized as a fire retardant roof.

Q. Can I walk on it?
A. Yes. Made of 26-gauge commercial quality steel, Met-Tile has superior walkability. Avoid stepping in the middle or "crown" of the panel's tile portion, however.

Q. Will the metal corrode?
A. Met-Tile panels are made of Zincalume™ coated steel for the best available corrosion resistance. Also, a double-thick backer coat on the panels provides extra corrosion protection. If you live in an unusually corrosive (e.g. salt air/oceanfront) environment, consult Met-Tile about your roofing application.

Q. Does it have the required approvals?
A. Yes, Met-Tile's fire retardancy and wind resistance are recognized by the Council of American Building Officials, its regional member groups, and other local authorities. Evaluation reports are available on request.

Q. What are the installation requirements?
A. A minimum roof slope of 2-in-12 is recommended, though lower slopes are acceptable if the side laps are caulked. Met-Tile may be installed over existing shingles or decking, and may also be applied over open steel purlins or wood rafters.

Q. Can I apply it over my old roof?
A. In many cases, Met-Tile can be installed directly over an existing roof. Ask your roofing contractor for further information.

Q. Isn't it expensive?
A. Though Met-Tile costs more "per square" than shingles, it is very cost- effective over time because it outlasts conventional roofing and requires little maintenance. After a number of years, panels can be repainted if desired, often eliminating the need for a far more costly roof replacement. Finally, a Met-Tile roof can add value and "curb appeal" to your home.