How to Install a Metal Roof

Learning how to install a metal roof is a job for a professional. Most metal roofing products are not sold to homeowners and their manufacturers require that they are installed by a licensed professional. Even materials that are available to homeowners are often expensive and difficult to work with, making it well worth hiring a professional for installing metal roofing. However, knowing the basic theory of how to install a metal roof can help you appreciate the work required to install one.

When homeowners discuss metal roofs, they often are talking about standing seam metal roofing. This roofing, if properly installed, can easily last the life of the foundation of the home. However, the panels and pieces of the metal roofing must be carefully cut and adjusted in order to ensure a proper fit. For this reason, manufacturers will not sell their products to homeowners. Standing seam roofing installed without a contractor will also void its warrantee.

Other types of metal roofing that are not often used, such as metal shingles or corrugated metal roofing, or roofing panels, can sometimes be installed by a homeowner. However, the expensive materials involved make even a small mistake a costly one. The one exception is corrugated metal roofing, which is only used in non residential buildings. This material can be very easy to use for the beginning do-it-yourselfer.

Each manufacturer of metal roofing has instructions that specify how to fit together the pieces of their product. Contractors that specialize in installing metal roofing are often trained directly by the manufacturer. However, most metal roofing systems require some variation on these installation steps.

• The existing roofing materials are removed and discarded. Any flaws that are uncovered are repaired. This process is called a tear off.

• The decking is examined and altered as necessary to fit code and manufacturer requirements.

• Flashing and channels along the edges of the roof are installed. It is important to use pieces made by the manufacturer rather than attempting to fabricate channels or flashing.

• Metal roof insulation is installed underneath the rows of roofing if required. This will depend on the manufacturer and the product being installed.

• Panels are installed and fastened together using manufacturer provided fasteners. The panels are often large and heavy, requiring a team to work together on a single panel.

• Any scratches are identified and painted as necessary.

Choosing an experienced roofing contractor is essential for the success of a major metal roofing project. The best way to determine the suitability of potential candidates is to talk about their experience and preferences while installing metal roofing. Most contractors will be trained by at least one manufacturer and should be able to make a recommendation based on examining multiple products. They should also be able to answer questions regarding the suitability of a particular type of metal roofing based on the region and your individual home.

Metal roofing requires little maintenance. A twice yearly power washing to remove litter is all that is required by most manufacturers. After installing your roof, you should also contact your insurance company: most will lower your home insurance premium if you have a metal roof.

While it may be tempting to learn how to install metal roofing and attempt the job without a professional, almost all homeowners lack the skill, tools, and ability to install metal roofing. Instead of worrying about the installation process, focus on finding a professional who has installed many roofs in your area.

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