- HEP Roofing
- Metal Roofing

Metal Roofing
Metal Roofing | Roofing | Sewanee
Sewanee homes and businesses deserve roofs as enduring and distinctive as the Plateau itself—that’s why so many turn to HEP’s metal roofing specialists. Our panels are engineered to shrug off pounding rain, swirling mountain winds, and the intense Tennessee sun, all while reflecting heat and lowering energy bills. Choose from a palette of colors and standing-seam profiles that complement historic cottages, modern cabins, and campus buildings alike; every installation comes with high-performance underlayment, concealed fasteners, and warranties that last for decades.
From the first on-site inspection to the final walkthrough, you’ll feel the difference of working with a locally rooted team that values craftsmanship and clear communication. We arrive on time, protect your landscaping, and leave the jobsite spotless—because a premium roof deserves premium service. Ready to trade cracked shingles for lifelong peace of mind? Call HEP Roofing today and let Sewanee’s skyline shine in steel confidence.
What our customers say
Metal Roofing Expertise in Sewanee
Sewanee’s elevated plateau setting on the Cumberland mountain range subjects every roof to a unique blend of brisk winds, sudden temperature shifts, and near‐constant exposure to ultraviolet rays. For homeowners, campus facility managers, and commercial property stewards alike, the roof is the first and most important line of defense. HEP brings specialized metal roofing expertise to Sewanee, tailoring each project to the town’s distinctive climate, architectural vernacular, and community expectations. From centuries‐old cottages along University Avenue to contemporary faculty homes tucked into wooded lots, HEP combines precision craftsmanship with advanced technology to deliver roofs that protect, beautify, and add lasting value.
The Unique Charm of Sewanee Architecture
Sewanee architecture is an intricate tapestry of Gothic Revival halls, Craftsman bungalows, and modern eco‐homes that embrace local stone, timber, and metal. A walk down Georgia Avenue reveals steeply pitched roofs, decorative gables, and graceful dormers—each demanding a roof covering capable of conforming to angles, curves, and extended eaves. Metal roofing installed by HEP satisfies these design elements without sacrificing durability, giving every residence or institutional building a cohesive finish worthy of the North American Gothic landscape that dominates the University of the South.
How Metal Roofing Complements the Local Aesthetic
Metal roofing’s crisp seams, subtle textures, and wide array of colors seamlessly complement Sewanee’s sandstone walls and tree‐lined streets. HEP’s project designers leverage:
- Standing seam panels with concealed fasteners for sleek modern looks
- Corrugated profiles for farmhouses and carriage houses
- Metal shingles designed to imitate slate or wood shake for Historic District compatibility
- Specialty coatings in earth tones that harmonize with the plateau’s natural palette
By thoughtfully matching profile, color, and finish, HEP ensures each metal roof enriches Sewanee’s architectural story rather than competing with it.
Benefits of Metal Roofing in Sewanee Climate
HEP’s commitment to metal roofing in Sewanee is rooted in performance. The plateau’s microclimate is a test bed for any roofing system, and metal consistently outperforms alternatives.
Durability Against Mountain Weather
High winds funnel along the bluff, driving rain sideways and lifting debris into the air. Metal roofing panels installed by HEP are interlocked and mechanically seamed to resist wind uplift far exceeding local code requirements. The industrial‐grade coating protects against acid rain and wind‐blown grit, ensuring the roof surface remains intact and rust‐free.
Unordered list of durability benefits:
- Wind resistance rated up to 140 mph, ideal for exposed ridgelines
- Class A fire rating, critical in forested surroundings
- Impact resistance that withstands falling branches and hail
Energy Efficiency at High Altitude
Sewanee’s elevation produces cooler nights even in summer. A metal roof from HEP leverages this diurnal temperature swing through high reflectivity and emissivity coatings that bounce solar heat away by day and cool quickly after sunset. Homeowners report lower HVAC load and enhanced attic ventilation—particularly valuable in gabled structures common on campus edges.
Low Maintenance Lifestyle Fit
Between faculty responsibilities, outdoor recreation, and community events, Sewanee residents value low maintenance exteriors. Metal roofs installed by HEP eliminate recurring shingle replacements, moss treatments, and frequent leak repairs. Semi‐annual inspections suffice to keep fasteners tight and debris clear.
HEP's Comprehensive Metal Roofing Process
From the first site visit to the day the final ridge cap is placed, HEP follows a tested, transparent, and refined workflow that prioritizes quality, safety, and homeowner confidence.
Detailed Roof Assessment
An in‐depth roof assessment establishes project scope. HEP’s technicians document:
- Roof pitch and geometry
- Existing deck condition and structural load capacity
- Penetrations for chimneys, skylights, and dormer windows
- Flashing details at valleys, eaves, and wall intersections
Thermal imaging locates hidden moisture, while drone photography captures accurate dimensions for fabrication.
Material Selection and Custom Fabrication
HEP sources prime‐grade Galvalume and aluminum coils engineered for southeastern humidity levels. Each panel is cut on a portable roll former, enabling continuous lengths from ridge to eave without horizontal seams. Clients choose among:
- 24‐gauge steel standing seam panels
- 0.032-inch aluminum for coastal‐grade corrosion defense
- Specialty copper or zinc for landmark properties
Kynar 500® finishes deliver color stability and chalk resistance under intense sun.
Precision Installation Techniques
Installation crews trained in advanced sheet‐metal forming techniques follow these steps:
- Remove existing roofing down to the deck
- Inspect and replace any compromised sheathing or rafters
- Lay synthetic underlayment with cap fasteners for watertight coverage
- Install high‐temp ice and water shield at valleys and eaves
- Secure clip system at calculated spacing to allow for thermal expansion
- Roll seam or snap‐lock panels in sequence to create continuous watertight lines
- Fabricate custom flashings on site for chimneys, skylights, and parapet walls
- Fit ridge vents, snow guards, and gutter straps for complete system integration
Post-Project Inspection and Maintenance Plans
After installation, HEP conducts a multi‐point inspection, verifying:
- Seam integrity through handheld seam testers
- Fastener torque and alignment
- Proper valley drainage flow
- Cleanliness of surface free from metal shavings
Owners receive a maintenance roadmap including inspection intervals, recommended cleaning solutions, and photographic records for warranty documentation.
Sustainable Practices Embedded in HEP Projects
Sustainability is more than a buzzword on the Mountain; it’s a responsibility. HEP aligns with the community’s environmental stewardship goals through thoughtfully sourced materials and waste management.
Recyclable Materials and Waste Reduction
Metal roofing is 100 % recyclable at the end of its service life. HEP segregates tear-off materials on site, diverting metal and asphalt components from landfills. Sheet scrap from panel trimming is bundled and returned to regional mills for reprocessing.
Reflective Coatings and Energy Savings
High‐albedo finishes reduce Urban Heat Island effect around dense campus clusters and lower cooling demand. For LEED‐minded buildings, HEP’s metal roofs contribute to points in Energy and Atmosphere, Materials and Resources, and Sustainable Sites categories.
Common Metal Roofing Profiles Installed by HEP
A spectrum of profiles empowers architects and homeowners to match function with style.
- Standing seam with 1.5-inch vertical ribs for modern designs
- Corrugated 7/8-inch wave panels ideal for rustic barns and studios
- Metal shingles pressed to mimic slate, cedar shake, or Spanish tile
- Modular 16-inch interlocking panels with concealed fasteners
- Stone-coated steel tiles combining textured granular surface with metal core
Each profile undergoes wind uplift and impact testing suitable for Tennessee’s varied meteorology.
Integration with Other Building Systems
Metal roofing’s performance multiplies when planned alongside gutters, ventilation, and renewable energy attachments.
Gutters, Flashings, and Ventilation
HEP fabricates half‐round or K-style gutters from matching coil stock, ensuring seamless color coordination and corrosion uniformity. Factory‐notched ridge vents promote continuous airflow beneath the panels, balancing attic temperature and humidity.
Solar Panel Ready Surfaces
Standing seam roofs installed by HEP serve as a natural rail for photovoltaic clamps, eliminating the need to drill additional holes through the weather barrier. Property owners pursuing solar installation gain a ready substrate that cuts hardware costs and preserves warranty coverage.
Acoustic Performance Enhancements
Contrary to myth, metal roofs need not be louder during rainfall. HEP installs high‐density acoustic underlayment and employs stiffening beads within panels, muting reverberation to levels comparable with traditional decking systems.
Code Compliance and Safety Standards
HEP’s attention to code and safety safeguards both structures and occupants.
Local Building Codes in Franklin County
Sewanee lies within Franklin County’s jurisdiction, subject to International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) provisions. HEP secures required permits, prepares engineer‐stamped drawings for structural load modifications, and schedules county inspections to maintain compliance.
OSHA-Compliant Worksites
Every crew member wears fall protection harnesses rated for over 5,000 lbs. Anchor points are installed at ridges before the first panel is laid. Tool lanyards, debris nets, and controlled access zones minimize ground hazards for pedestrians and landscaping below.
Warranty Coverage and Documentation
HEP forwards manufacturer finish warranties alongside workmanship guarantees. Owners receive digital copies and warranty transfer instructions should the property change hands.
Recognizing When a Metal Roof Is the Right Upgrade
Understanding the tipping point between repair and replacement helps Sewanee property owners invest wisely.
Signs Your Current Roof Needs Replacement
- Curling or missing asphalt shingles after winter freeze‐thaw cycles
- Interior ceiling stains near valleys or skylight junctions
- Granule loss exposing black felt under heavy rainfall
- Wood rot discovered during gutter cleaning
- Energy bills rising despite adequate attic insulation
Budgeting for Long-Term Value
A metal roof’s service life regularly surpasses 50 years. When analyzed through total cost of ownership, the initial investment is offset by lower maintenance, fewer replacement cycles, and potential insurance premium reductions due to superior fire and impact ratings.
Architectural Trends on The Mountain
Modern infill construction around campus favors low-slope shed roofs with extended overhangs—an ideal canvas for standing seam. Meanwhile, renovation of century-old cottages often specifies metal shingles that mimic slate, satisfying historic guidelines while delivering 21st-century performance.
Maintenance Tips Provided After Project
HEP equips homeowners with knowledge to preserve the roof’s integrity and appearance.
Seasonal Inspection Checklist
- Check for debris accumulation in valleys after spring pollen drop
- Inspect panel seams and fasteners following autumn windstorms
- Verify ridge vent mesh remains clear of leaves and insect nests
Snow Shedding Strategies
While Sewanee rarely experiences deep snow, sudden flurries do occur. Snow guards installed in strategic rows break up sliding snowbanks, protecting gutters and landscaping.
Gutter Cleaning Routine
Gutter maintenance is simplified with smooth metal surfaces enabling debris to wash away easily. HEP recommends soft brush cleaning rather than pressure washing to protect the finish.
Why Homeowners and Institutions in Sewanee Trust HEP
HEP’s reputation on the Domain grows from technical proficiency, responsive project management, and an unwavering commitment to community values.
Craftsmanship Rooted in Experience
Crews undergo continual training in sheet‐metal welding, on‐site roll forming, and weatherproof detailing. Each foreman tracks tolerances within millimeters, ensuring panel alignments that pass both aesthetic and performance tests.
Transparent Communication
From daily progress updates to clear material specifications, HEP eliminates ambiguity. Property stakeholders receive photo logs, schedule forecasts, and code inspection certificates in real time.
Tailored Solutions for Diverse Buildings
Sewanee’s building stock ranges from single‐story cottages to multi‐wing institutional complexes. HEP scales its approach accordingly, delivering the same level of precision to every roof, regardless of size or complexity.
Color Selection Strategies for Metal Roofs in Sewanee
Metal roofing’s palette extends far beyond traditional silver or charcoal. HEP’s consultants employ color science and geographical cues to help owners make decisions that endure through seasons and evolving design trends.
Neighborhood Harmony and Zoning Approval
The Historic District Board often requires visual continuity from street to street. Earthy browns, weathered coppers, and muted greens sit comfortably against sandstone facades and hardwood canopies.
- Matte black for modern infill structures seeking dramatic rooflines
- Colonial red that echoes University building trim accents
- Aged bronze finishes blending into fall foliage vistas
- Galvalume natural finish for barns overlooking open meadows
Psychology of Color and Property Value
Warm tones project welcome and hospitality, while cooler grays convey sophistication. By matching roof color with window trim, shutters, and gutter downspouts, HEP ensures the entire exterior reads as a cohesive composition. Enhanced curb appeal can translate into higher appraisal values, particularly in university‐adjacent rental markets.
Advanced Acoustic and Thermal Upgrades
HEP integrates cutting‐edge materials that further elevate metal roofing performance.
Phase-Change Insulation Boards
Installed beneath metal panels, these boards absorb heat during peak afternoon hours and release it overnight, flattening temperature spikes and reducing HVAC cycles without altering exterior appearance.
Acoustic Membranes on Decking
High-density membranes laminated to deck boards deaden rainfall impact noise, creating tranquil interior environments—an advantage for study spaces, music practice rooms, and meditation areas prevalent across the Domain.