Metal Roofing

Charleston’s salt-laden breezes, sudden downpours, and simmering summers demand a roof that won’t flinch—and that’s exactly why so many Lowcountry homeowners are turning to HEP’s metal roofing. Engineered to shrug off hurricane-force winds, resist corrosion, and reflect punishing UV rays, our standing-seam and metal shingle systems protect your home for 50+ years while trimming energy costs. From the Battery to West Ashley, customers love the crisp, coastal look that only metal delivers, along with the peace of mind that comes from a Class A fire rating and industry-leading warranties.

What truly sets HEP’s apart is the experience behind the panels. Our Charleston-based craftsmen handle everything in-house—from precise measurements and custom panel fabrication to meticulous installation—so your new roof fits like it was born there. Choose from a palette of colors inspired by the Holy City’s historic architecture, add options like concealed fasteners or integrated gutters, and let our friendly team walk you through financing or insurance coordination. Ready to trade constant repairs for a lifetime of confidence? Schedule your free, no-pressure roof assessment with HEP’s today and discover the last roof you’ll ever need.

Charleston’s Demanding Climate and the Case for Metal Roofing

Charleston’s coastal charm comes at the cost of relentless sun, salty sea air, subtropical humidity, and the ever-present possibility of hurricanes. Roofs in this environment must fend off ultraviolet radiation, gale-force winds, airborne salt, and torrential rain. Asphalt shingles deteriorate rapidly under such stress, wood shakes can warp, and clay tiles often struggle with wind uplift. Metal roofing, on the other hand, thrives in the Lowcountry.

HEP Company focuses exclusively on metal roofing systems that are engineered to resist Charleston’s harsh climate variables while providing aesthetics that complement the city’s historic and contemporary architecture. By leveraging high-grade metal alloys, specialized coatings, and precision craftsmanship, each HEP installation is designed for multi-decade longevity with minimal maintenance.

Core Benefits Delivered by HEP Metal Roofing

Superior Wind Resistance

Charleston’s recorded gusts frequently exceed 120 mph during tropical events. HEP fastens panels with concealed clips and stainless steel screws into the structural deck, achieving uplift ratings that surpass local code requirements. Seam interlocks run the full panel length, eliminating loose edges that shingles typically expose.

Salty Air Corrosion Mitigation

Salt crystallization accelerates oxidation. HEP combats this with:

• Galvalume substrates containing 55 % aluminum-zinc alloy for sacrificial protection
• Kynar 500® resin-based finishes proven to maintain color and gloss in marine settings
• Optional stainless steel fastener upgrades to eliminate galvanic reactions

Rapid Water Shedding

Charleston’s summer downpours routinely release two inches of rain per hour. HEP specifies raised seam profiles—some exceeding 1.75″ height—that channel water toward gutters before capillary action can penetrate. Factory-seamed transitions around hips and valleys further ensure watertight continuity.

Energy Efficiency in Subtropical Heat

High solar reflectance is embedded into HEP’s Cool Roof rated coatings. Reflective pigments bounce infrared radiation, resulting in attic temperature reductions up to 30 °F. Lower attic heat directly translates into decreased HVAC loads, helping homeowners curb utility consumption year-round.

Long-Term Cost Control

A properly installed metal roof by HEP rarely needs replacement for 50 years or more. With asphalt shingles requiring two or three replacements in that span, total lifecycle cost tilts decisively toward metal, not to mention the avoided disposal burden of multiple tear-offs.

HEP’s Process-Driven Approach

Detailed Site Evaluation

A project begins with an on-site structural assessment. Roof pitch, deck composition, attic ventilation, and fascia health are documented. In Charleston’s historic districts, HEP coordinates with architectural review boards to verify acceptable profiles and colors before finalizing specifications.

Customized Panel Fabrication

• Precise on-site roll forming or shop fabrication to fit exact eave-to-ridge measurements
• Computer-controlled shears and brakes produce crisp edges, eliminating waviness (“oil-canning”)
• Panel lengths up to 50 feet minimize transverse seams, a common leakage source in segmented systems

Rigorous Installation Protocol

1. Removal of existing roofing and moisture-compromised decking if present
2. Installation of high-temperature, self-adhering underlayment across entire roof plane
3. Placement of breathable synthetic slip sheet to permit backside ventilation under the metal
4. Alignment of starter panels using laser levels for perfect parallelism
5. Mechanical seaming or snap-lock engagement per design, with concealed fasteners every 12″–16″
6. Integration of ventilation components—ridge vents, off-ridge vents, or solar attic fans—to optimize airflow
7. Flashing fabrication on-site around chimneys, dormers, and pipe penetrations, ensuring monolithic weatherproofing

Final Quality Audit

HEP’s team completes a 40-point inspection, including thermal imaging to detect hidden moisture, torque verification on fasteners, and visual inspection for coating integrity. Only after passing every criterion does the roof receive HEP’s transferable warranty documentation.

Metal Roofing Profiles Offered by HEP in Charleston

Standing Seam

The hallmark of modern coastal architecture, standing seam features vertical ribs that snap or seam together above the panel plane. HEP installs both:

• Snap-lock panels for residential pitches 3:12 and above
• Mechanical double-lock panels for low-slope porches or commercial applications where watertight security is paramount

Metal Shingles and Tiles

For homeowners wanting the classic look of slate, shake, or Mediterranean tile without the weight, HEP offers pressed steel and aluminum shingles. Interlocking tabs create a continuous barrier while replicating traditional profiles accepted by many historic district guidelines.

Corrugated Panels

Ranch estates and accessory structures such as carriage houses often benefit from 7/8″ corrugation, providing an agrarian aesthetic. HEP applies factory-cut closures and butyl sealant at ridge and eave for weather shielding.

Metal Shake

Stamped panels emulate cedar shake grain patterns yet deliver fire resistance and dimensionally stable performance. These systems are popular in marshfront communities where wildfire risk intersects with high humidity.

Material Choices and Coating Technologies

Galvalume Steel

A 55 % aluminum, 43.5 % zinc, 1.5 % silicon alloy coating on mild steel offers triple the corrosion resistance of traditional galvanized steel. HEP sources Galvalume with AZ55 weight for maximum longevity in salt-laden Charleston air.

Aluminum

Lightweight, rust-proof, and formable, aluminum excels on homes within 1,500 feet of the ocean. HEP pairs aluminum panels with color-matched aluminum gutters to eliminate dissimilar-metal contact points.

Copper

Premium projects specify bare copper for its living finish that patinas into verdigris. Copper’s malleability permits complex turret and cupola coverage. HEP craftsmen solder seams to maintain historic authenticity on downtown landmarks.

Zinc

Titanium-zinc alloys form a self-healing carbonate layer, offering a matte grey appearance prized in minimalist designs. HEP pre-weathered zinc eliminates initial run-off staining on brick or stucco façades.

Kynar 500® & Hylar 5000® Coatings

Fluoropolymer paints provide:

• 70 % PVDF resin content for exceptional fade resistance
• Chalking resistance rated five units or less after 20 years per ASTM D4214
• Wide color palette, including Charleston-approved shades such as slate grey, colonial red, and patina green

Addressing Charleston’s Building Code and Historic Ordinances

Wind Uplift Requirements

Charleston County enforces International Residential Code 2021 wind maps, mandating design wind speeds up to 150 mph. HEP engineers panel clip spacing and diaphragm bracing accordingly. Continuous ridge and hip caps are field-seamed to prevent wind-driven ingress.

Fire Rating

All HEP systems carry Class A or B fire ratings, with non-combustible underlayments satisfying South Carolina building code for Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) areas surrounding the Francis Marion National Forest.

Historic District Compliance

Charleston’s Board of Architectural Review (BAR) stipulates material and color standards within its protected districts. HEP prepares submittal packages including:

• Sample cut-outs of proposed metal profile
• Color chips from approved palette
• Renderings overlaying panel seams on existing rooflines

Approval is often expedited due to metal roofing’s historic precedent on 19th-century Lowcountry structures.

Sustainability and Environmental Attributes

Recycled Content and End-of-Life Recyclability

Steel and aluminum panels used by HEP contain up to 35 % post-consumer recycled content. At end of service life, panels are 100 % recyclable, reducing landfill dependency.

Cool Roof Rating Compliance

HEP’s light-colored coatings meet or exceed Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) values mandated by ENERGY STAR® and LEED v4.1. High SRI reduces heat island effect in dense Charleston neighborhoods.

Rainwater Harvest Compatibility

Metal roofs shed water free of asphalt granules, making them ideal for cistern collection. HEP installs pre-filters at downspouts to ensure debris control for landscape or non-potable reuse.

Routine Maintenance Programs

Even with metal’s inherent durability, Charleston’s pollen, oak leaves, and hurricane debris can accumulate. HEP offers scheduled maintenance to:

• Clear valleys, gutters, and downspouts
• Inspect sealant joints around penetrations
• Check clip tightness and expansion joint movement
• Wash panels with pH-neutral detergents to prevent salt buildup

Common Architectural Styles HEP Enhances with Metal Roofing

Charleston Single House

Standing seam in muted historic colors complements the narrow gabled profile, while lightweight aluminum prevents additional load on centuries-old rafters.

Lowcountry Cottage

Exposed rafter tails pair well with metal shake panels, creating a cozy yet resilient porch feel.

Contemporary Waterfront Villa

Flat lock copper panels wrap parapets and cascading roof terraces, merging modern minimalism with coastal elegance.

Plantation-Style Estate

Wide-plank metal tiles emulate traditional slate but remain impervious to moss and lichen typical in shaded live-oak canopies.

Downtown Commercial Mixed-Use

Long-run mechanically seamed panels with integrated solar appliance mounts equip retail rooftops for future photovoltaic expansion.

Integration with Solar Technology

Metal roofing is inherently solar-ready. HEP pre-installs:

• Stanchions anchored directly to structural rafters, avoiding reverse flashings
• Conduit penetrations fitted with rubber grommets and cover plates
• Microinverter mounting plates beneath panel field

Because the metal roof outlasts photovoltaic modules, system upgrades can occur without disturbing the roof envelope.

Acoustic Performance and Interior Comfort

Contrary to myth, properly installed metal roofs are not noisy. HEP’s assemblies incorporate:

• High-temperature underlayment damping layers
• 5/8″ plywood decking for rigidity
• Ventilated airspace that breaks sound waves

Decibel readings during rain events often match or are quieter than shingled counterparts.

Insurance and Home Value Considerations

Insurance carriers recognize the impact resistance and fire proof qualities of metal roofing, frequently offering premium reductions. Charleston homeowners with HEP metal roofing often document:

• Lower hail damage claims due to 50-year Class 4 impact rating
• Reduced windstorm deductible percentages thanks to enhanced uplift resistance
• Improved resale traction; prospective buyers value transferability of long warranties and anticipate fewer upcoming maintenance expenses

The Craft of Flashing Complex Roof Features

Chimneys and Masonry Parapets

HEP forms custom crickets directing water outward, then installs stepped counter-flashing recessed into mortar joints, maintaining a 2″ overlap above primary flashing pans.

Skylights

Prefabricated aluminum curb kits with integral apron flashing are mechanically seamed into surrounding panels, integrating the skylight as part of the roof system rather than an afterthought opening.

Valleys and Dead Valleys

Open valley metal in 24-gauge steel receives continuous ice & water shield underneath and is hemmed on both sides to lock beneath panel edges. For dead valleys, HEP designs tapered cricket drains or scuppers to eliminate ponding water.

Gutters and Downspouts

Seamless aluminum K-style or half-round profiles are color-matched to panels. HEP installs snow guards only where architectural design calls for them; Charleston’s mild winters seldom present sliding snow hazards, but guards can trap leaves, so HEP assesses case-by-case.

Ventilation Strategy Tailored for Humid Climates

Without proper venting, attics trap moist air that condenses under roof decks. HEP designs balanced systems:

• Continuous ridge vents paired with soffit intake vents create passive airflow, flushing humidity
• Beefed-up baffles ensure insulation does not block soffit openings
• On complicated roof geometries, solar-powered attic fans supplement airflow during still, humid days

Humidity control mitigates mold growth and prolongs HVAC ductwork life.

HEP’s Commitment to Craftsmanship Training

Every installer completes a structured apprenticeship that covers:

• Sheet metal folding and hem techniques
• OSHA fall protection and confined space protocols
• Sealant chemistry and adhesion principles in coastal environments
• Periodic manufacturer certification renewals to uphold material warranty eligibility

Monthly quality forums analyze project photos and share solutions to uncommon field challenges, fostering continuous improvement.

Drainage Design for Coastal Downpours

HEP calculates runoff using FEMA rainfall intensity data. Oversized 6″ downspouts with 3″x4″ openings manage high flow rates. Diverters above entryways prevent cascading sheets of water over doors, preserving walkability during storms.

Wildlife Deterrence Features

Charleston’s raccoons and squirrels can exploit weak fascia. HEP installs:

• Edge guards under first panel course to close gaps
• Ridge vent foam accepted by code yet too dense for insects and bats
• Stainless steel mesh at gable penetrations to exclude bird nesting

Lightning Performance

Metal roofs do not attract lightning but safely dissipate strikes due to conductivity. HEP installs grounding cables on high-risk structures per NFPA 780. This forms a Faraday cage effect, routing current to earth without structural damage.

Moisture Barrier Innovations

High-temperature ice & water membranes used by HEP withstand sustained surface temps up to 250 °F, critical for dark roofs under Charleston sun. SBS-modified bitumen layer remains flexible, maintaining adhesion across thermal cycles.

Paint System Maintenance and Recoating

Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) finishes resist chalk and fade, but coastal grit can abrade surfaces over decades. HEP’s maintenance program includes biennial rinse cycles. When recoating becomes desirable, HEP scuffs and applies field coating systems featuring urethane primers and fluoropolymer topcoats, restoring original luster without panel removal.

Structural Load Implications

HEP-installed metal roofs weigh 1.0 to 1.5 lbs/ft², versus up to 10 lbs/ft² for tile. Historic timber framing benefits from lower dead loads, reducing risk of sagging ridge lines. In seismic events, lighter roofs also reduce gravitational inertia forces on walls.

Color Selection Considerations for Charleston Neighborhoods

• Light neutrals such as bone white deflect solar gain and suit contemporary builds
• Earthy tones like matte bronze blend with marshland vistas
• Soft greys and weathered zinc mimic traditional terne metal on heritage homes
• Tropical hues—including seafoam green—accent Key-West-style cottages while staying BAR compliant when muted

HEP provides large panel samples to observe undertones in varying daylight.

Fire Safety in Coastal Woodlands

Metal roofing serves as a first defense in ember-driven fires. Charleston outskirts bordering pine forests occasionally encounter wildfire threats. HEP installs class A systems with sealed eave soffits, preventing ember intrusion into attic insulation.

Integration with Rain Gutters and Stormwater Management

By directing runoff efficiently, HEP metal roofs reduce splash-back erosion around foundations. Optional rain chains replace traditional downspouts in space-constrained courtyards, adding aesthetic water features during showers.

Expansion Joint Engineering

Metal naturally expands under heat. HEP calculates coefficient of thermal expansion for selected alloys, installing floating clips on long panels and allowing sliding movement. End-lap joints on steel greater than 30′ include butyl seal and concealed Z-closures to accommodate motion without oil-canning.

Impact Resistance from Hail and Wind-Borne Debris

Charleston storms may propel oak limbs and hailstones onto roofs. HEP’s steel panels earn UL 2218 Class 4 ratings, surviving 2″ ice spheres without fracturing. Indentations, if any, rarely breach coating integrity.

Installing Over Existing Roofs

In select cases, HEP employs a retro-fit method, installing metal panels over a single layer of shingles using 1×4 purlins. This approach retains existing decking, minimizing landfill waste while providing an air gap that boosts radiant barrier performance. Building code compliance and structural load calculations guide retrofit decisions.

Flashing Compatibility with Masonry and Siding Materials

Differential thermal movement between metal roofs and brick chimneys necessitates slip joints in counter-flashing. Where roofs intersect fiber-cement siding, HEP inserts backer rod and high-performance silicone sealants, maintaining weathertightness even as materials expand independently.

Snow and Ice Rare Events Preparedness

Although snowfall is rare in Charleston, sleet can accumulate. Smooth metal surfaces encourage sliding, preventing ice dams. HEP only installs snow retention systems upon special request, preserving the roof’s self-clearing advantage.

Gutter Guard Options

HEP recommends perforated aluminum guard screens that fasten beneath first metal panel hem. These reduce pine straw infiltration while maintaining easy lift-up access for cleaning.

Photovoltaic Heat Sink Performance

Metal roofs reflect a portion of sun’s energy, keeping PV modules cooler and thereby improving electrical output. HEP’s flush solar mounts preserve wind rating and add only negligible penetrations, each isolated with double neoprene washers.

Acoustic Underlayment Upgrades

For media rooms and bedrooms located directly under roof slopes, HEP offers mass-loaded vinyl layers that attenuate airborne noise. Combined with mineral wool insulation, decibel reduction peaks at 27 dB compared with baseline assemblies.

Colorfast Warranty Details

Panels carry:

• 30-year limited finish warranty guarding against cracking, peeling, or excessive fade
• Chalk fade threshold ΔE of 5 units as measured by Hunter Lab colorimeter methods

Warranty requires adherence to cleaning schedule outlined in HEP owner’s manual.

Innovative Ridge Cap Designs

Traditional ridge caps sometimes present wind vulnerability. HEP’s one-piece vented caps feature integrated baffle and filter media anchored with stainless clips, resisting uplift while providing 18 sq in/linear-ft net free ventilation.

Vegetative Roof Possibilities

Metal roofing forms the waterproofing layer beneath green roof trays. HEP installs root-barrier membranes atop panels, then sets lightweight modular planters. Drip irrigation tied to harvested rainwater completes the ecological loop.

Trinity of Durability: Underlayment, Metal, and Craft

Underlayment blocks moisture ingress; metal provides structural armor; craftsmanship ensures synergy. HEP aligns this trinity for every Charleston roof, delivering a system prepared to face coastal storms, scorching sun, and salty breezes for generations.