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Standing Seam Metal Roofing: Why It Dominates BC Weather

Josh Vickers
December 2024
12 min read

Discover why standing seam metal roofing has become the preferred choice for homeowners facing BC's demanding weather conditions.

When we talk to homeowners about roofing options, one question comes up more than any other: "Is metal roofing worth the investment?" After 8 years of installing roofs across the Fraser Valley, our answer is an emphatic yes—especially for homes in our climate.

What Makes Standing Seam Different

Standing seam metal roofing features raised interlocking seams that connect panels together. Unlike exposed fastener metal roofing (common on agricultural buildings), standing seam hides all fasteners beneath the seam, eliminating the most common failure point in metal roofing systems.

  • Concealed fasteners prevent water infiltration
  • Thermal expansion is accommodated through floating clips
  • Panels run continuously from ridge to eave for superior water shedding
  • No exposed screws means no screw-hole leaks over time
  • Clean, architectural appearance enhances curb appeal

Performance in Fraser Valley Conditions

The Fraser Valley throws everything at a roof: heavy rain, occasional snow loads, high winds, and temperature swings from freezing to 35°C+. Standing seam metal handles all of these challenges exceptionally well.

A properly installed standing seam roof can withstand wind speeds up to 180 km/h—well above the 100-120 km/h gusts we occasionally experience during Pacific storms.

Cost Analysis: The 50-Year Perspective

Yes, standing seam costs more upfront than asphalt shingles—typically 2-3x more. But when you calculate total cost of ownership over 50 years, the math tells a different story.

  • Asphalt shingles: 20-25 year lifespan = 2-3 replacements over 50 years
  • Standing seam metal: 50+ year lifespan = 0 replacements
  • Metal requires virtually no maintenance beyond gutter cleaning
  • Energy savings from reflective coatings reduce cooling costs
  • Insurance discounts available for Class 4 impact-resistant materials

We offer financing options that make the monthly payment for a metal roof comparable to what you'd spend on maintenance and eventual replacement of asphalt shingles. Ask us for a personalized comparison.

Choosing the Right Metal Roof

Not all metal roofing is created equal. We exclusively install 24-gauge steel with Kynar 500® finishes—the same coating used on commercial high-rises. This ensures fade resistance and corrosion protection for decades, even in our wet climate.

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