From withstanding wildfires and hurricanes to being durable enough to last 50+ years, metal roofs have many benefits, and with proper installation, they come with almost no upkeep. Many homeowners want to benefit from the energy efficiency of metal roofs, as they can reduce cooling costs by reflecting heat, which is why they are very popular across the United States. Metal roofs come with a modern and sleek look with no visible seams. Aztec Construction has created this detailed guide to make metal roof installation easy for you.
Installing A Metal Roof: The Experts’ Guide
While metal roof installation may seem like a very frustrating and tiring process, the right skill and precision can get you to an energy-efficient home. Understanding some expert tips for this process can help you DIY it or appreciate the significance of hiring a pro for the job.
Let’s look at the top installation tips from our experts:
a. Getting the roof deck prepared:
The first step involves removing the old roofing material, thoroughly inspecting the sheathing for damage, and addressing any needed repairs. Some metal roofing contractors may tell you that a new roof can be installed over existing shingles, and while that is true, experts advise getting a full tear-off to maintain the integrity of your roof.
b. Time to lay the underlayment:
Now that your roof deck is prepared, you must add a waterproofing underlayment to your entire roof surface. This underlayment will be your secondary water barrier and support in sealing around fastener penetrations. Next, lay the slip sheets, usually rosin paper, on top of the underlayment. This allows the metal to expand and contract freely without damaging the underlayment.
c. Fastening to avoid leaks:
The final and most important step is installing the shingles or metal roofing panels. This process greatly depends on the specific metal roofing system you’re using. For metal shingles or tiles, each component is fastened individually and overlapped to make a watertight seal. For standing seam roofs, panels are attached with concealed fasteners and seamed together through a special machine.
| Pro tip: To avoid water from getting under the panels, avoid seams and order panels to fit. |
Metal Roof Installation: What It Costs:
Metal roof maintenance is almost nonexistent compared to other roofing options, causing many homeowners to look up ‘metal roof costs’. We’ve done a cost breakdown to help you budget effectively for your next metal roof installation. The average cost of a small steel roof is almost $17,500, which is double the cost of an asphalt roof.
Here are the top 2 factors that make up this total cost:
- Material costs usually account for around 40% of the total roofing project cost, with prices ranging from $4 to $25 per square foot.
- Labor makes up almost 45% of the total project cost, which can increase if you choose a difficult roofing style or your house has complicated rooflines.
Installing the Right Metal Roof in Your Home:
Going to choose a steel roofing system or aluminum roofing for your home? Don’t rush this decision because you must consider several factors before picking the right material for your metal roof installation.
Let’s analyze some factors every homeowner should consider while deciding on the material for their residential metal roofs:
Look at your local climate:
If your house is in a region with heavy snowfall, standing seam metal roofs are a good choice as they’ll allow snow to slide off easily. For houses in coastal areas, corrosion resistance is the top priority; hence, choose copper, aluminum, or salt air roofs. Lastly, houses in sunny, hot climates demand light-colored metal roofs with enhanced solar reflectance.
Matching your style:
Modern homes go well with slate-like metal shingles, and one of the best options among metal roof colors for them is a weathered copper color. On the other hand, modern houses would look better with a matte black finish in a standing seam metal roof.
Looking inside your wallet:
If your budget feels too tight and you think you cannot afford metal roof installation, don’t worry, because we’ve got some great alternatives for you. If zinc and copper roofs are at the higher end of the spectrum, steel roofing is certainly economical. Always remember that long-term costs matter more than the cost upfront.
Conclusion:
Metal roofs promise style, durability, and energy efficiency, making them a great choice for your home. But knowing what follows the actual installation process and the costs that come with it can not just save you a lot of hassle, but also make you more careful when choosing the best metal roof material for your home.
FAQs:
Which is better, in metal roof vs shingles?
Apart from being energy efficient, metal roofs are also durable, which makes them a better option.
How much overlap is needed for metal roofing?
Around 1.5 inches.
What goes on before a metal roof?
A self-adhering synthetic material called the underlayment.
Can I install a metal roof by myself?
If you’re not an expert, DIYing may involve a tripping hazard and uneven panels with seams.
Where to place screws on metal roofing?
Install screws on the crest corrugation or the ribs of the metal roofing sheets.