Depending on the type of metal, a metal roof can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years. Metal is resilient to the elements, attractive because it comes in an array of colors, and is actually faster to install. If you have settled on metal roofing for your home, you are probably wondering how to install metal roofing on house. Here is a simple guide regarding metal roofing installation.
Step 1: Preparing the Roof for Installation
You can actually install certain types of metal roofing over shingles, but it is usually better if the old roofing is removed so the metal panels have a solid foundation to stand on. Therefore, you will likely be faced with the task of removing the old roofing on your home before you can get started. Removing old roofing will require that you:
- Pick a period when there will be no rain for a few days
- Rent a dumpster to house the debris from the roof
- Remove any large nails or fasteners that are left behind after the shingles are removed
- Repair any damages the roof while you work
Step 2: Adding Your Roofing Felt or Insulation Layer
Once you have prepared the roof and removed the old materials, you will need to install what is referred to as roofing felt across the entire roof. This felt acts as an insulative layer between the metal and the roof, and it also thwarts moisture that can collect beneath the roofing panels. The felt will have to be cut to size and then attached to the roof with a staple gun.
Step 3: Installing the Eave Flashing
Eave flashing is required during steel roofing installation or metal roofing installation. This narrow strip of metal is attached around the eaves of the house before the roofing panels go in place. It is best to use 1 1/4-inch nails to attach this strip of metal, and it should slightly overlap where it meets the gutters if you have them.
Step 4: Starting the Metal Roofing Installation
With the roof surface prepared, felt laid, and eaves flashing installed, you are ready to begin metal roofing installation. It is best to start installing panels at the longest peak so your largest sections are covered with solid, pieces. The fasteners used to secure the panels are super important; look for washer head screws that have a neoprene washer to seal off the connection from moisture. The edges of the metal roofing panels should overlap one another about an inch or more. If there are gaps between panels that have overlapped, you can seal the space with silicone or adhesive silicone.
Step 5: Adding the Finishing Flashing
Once you have all panels in place, the finishing process involves installing pieces of metal flashing over the joints of the roof up on the ridge of the roof and at other peaks. The flashing can be folded into a V-shape to completely cover the joints.
As you can see, installing a metal roof on a home is no easy feat. Reach out to us at Dominion Roofing if you need help with installing a metal roof on your home.
FAQ’s
What are the disadvantages of a metal roof?
While metal roofs have numerous advantages, they have some downsides as well. The most common disadvantages of metal roofs are that they are susceptible to roof leaks, are at high risk of blow-offs if poorly installed and are also prone to punctures & tears. Additionally, metal roofs generate lots of noise in rainstorm or hailstorm.
Can I put a metal roof over shingles?
Yes! Metal roof can be installed over shingles because its light weight. Nonetheless, you still need to have permission from your local building department to install a metal roof over shingles. The local building department will most likely carry out an inspection to determine the suitability and safety of the installation.
Does a metal roof interfere with WIFI?
Metal roof can interfere with your WIFI signal since metal objects can cause major wireless internet disruption. Nonetheless, there are extra steps you can take to ensure that your wireless internet signal is not interfered with. For instance, you can purchase a wireless router with a long-range signal strength. Similarly. You can use a wireless repeater to strengthen the WIFI signal in your home.
How to install steel roofing?
Steel roofing installation requires skill and planning. Firstly, learn about various materials you will need then check out a wood or tile roofing system by using a shingle. Choose a panel rather than a shingle for variety of contours and samples, acquire a user-friendly shingle with aluminum interlocking system and install your newly acquired steel shingle over your old roof. Lastly attach the starter flashing to ensure leakage doesn’t occur
How to install metal roofing on a flat roof?
Installing a metal roof on flat shaped roof top is a very easy process. First of all, you will need to have materials like hand tools, nails, shingles, flashing and counter-flashing elements. Secondly, you need to check out a tile or wood roofing system through shingle. The two roofing materials will give you a wide range of design patterns and colour choices.
How to install metal roofing?
Installing a metal roof on flat shaped roof top is a very easy process. First of all, you will need to have materials like hand tools, nails, shingles, flashing and counter-flashing elements. Secondly, you need to check out a tile or wood roofing system through shingle. The two roofing materials will give you a wide range of design patterns and colour choices.
how wide are metal roofing panels?
The width of your roofing panels depends on the size of your roof. Generally, the most common widths for roof panels are 26 and 36 inches. Another common standard size is 24 and 39 inches.