Quick Answer
When comparing metal roofing estimates in San Antonio, it helps to know common terms like gauge (metal thickness, where lower numbers are thicker), Galvalume (aluminum-zinc coated steel), standing seam (raised seams with hidden fasteners), R-panel and PBR (exposed-fastener panels), flashing (metal pieces that seal joints), underlayment (the barrier under the panels), and Class 4 (the highest impact rating).
Panel Types
These terms describe the style of metal panel.
- Standing seam: panels with raised vertical seams and hidden fasteners
- Exposed fastener: panels screwed through the face
- R-panel and PBR: common exposed-fastener panels with tall ribs
- Corrugated: wavy panels, a classic exposed-fastener style
- Stone-coated steel: steel panels coated with stone granules to look like shingles or tile
Materials and Finishes
These terms describe what the roof is made of.
- Gauge: metal thickness; lower numbers are thicker (24 gauge is thicker than 29)
- Galvanized: steel coated with zinc for rust protection
- Galvalume: steel coated with an aluminum-zinc alloy
- PVDF or Kynar finish: premium paint that resists fading and chalking
- Cool roof finish: paint designed to reflect sunlight
Roof Parts
These are the parts you will see listed on an estimate.
- Underlayment: the water-resistant layer under the panels
- Decking: the plywood or OSB the roof is built on
- Flashing: metal pieces that seal joints, walls, and penetrations
- Ridge cap: trim along the top peak of the roof
- Drip edge and eave trim: edge pieces that direct water into gutters
- Rake trim: trim along the sloped edges of gable ends
- Pipe boot: seal around plumbing vent pipes
- Clips: hidden fasteners used on standing seam roofs
Terms You'll See on Insurance Paperwork
Insurance estimates for roof claims use their own vocabulary.
- RCV (replacement cost value): cost to replace with similar materials
- ACV (actual cash value): replacement cost minus depreciation
- Depreciation: value reduction based on age and condition
- Supplement: a request to add items missed in the original estimate
- Deductible: the portion you pay before insurance
Ratings and Measurements
These terms show up in estimates and insurance discussions.
- Square: 100 square feet of roof area
- Pitch or slope: how steep the roof is, such as 4/12
- Class 4: the highest UL 2218 impact rating
- Class A: the highest fire rating for roof coverings
- Wind rating: tested wind resistance for a roofing system
Frequently Asked Questions
What gauge metal roof is best?
Thicker metal (lower gauge numbers) resists dents better. 24 and 26 gauge are common for residential standing seam; 29 gauge is common for exposed-fastener panels.
What is a roofing square?
A square is 100 square feet of roof area, the standard unit roofers use for pricing.
What does roof pitch mean?
Pitch is how many inches the roof rises for every 12 inches of horizontal run, such as 6/12.
Contact Sanchez Metal Roofing
Phone: (210) 708-3308. Email: sanchezmetalroofing123@gmail.com. Address: 520 Fredericksburg Rd, San Antonio, TX 78201. Hours: Monday through Saturday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Free roof inspections across San Antonio. Call (210) 708-3308.