Metal roofing provides any home a stylish, durable, and energy-efficient finish. Whether you enjoy a sleek modern design or something rustic looking, metal roofing has something to offer everyone. Proper planning and installation will help ensure the success of your roofing project. With the help of our expert staff at Aztec Construction, you will be able to learn everything necessary for a successful installation, from gathering tools, getting the proper permits and step-by-step instructions for the metal roof installation.
Prepping and Planning for Metal Roof Installation
Effective planning and preparation are key to a successful, safe, and smooth installation of a metal roof. Planning things out in detail is your best strategy to prepare in advance of a project. The effort you put into preparation will keep you on schedule and allow you to get the best possible outcome for your home improvement project.
Here is the guide on how to make a master plan for metal roof installation:
Gather Your Tools and Materials:
Before you start, be sure to have everything you need.
- Materials: Metal panels, synthetic underlayment, drip edge, flashing, sealant, foam closure strips, and fasteners (screws/ rubber washers).
- Safety Gear: Safety harness, ropes, non-skid boots, heavy gloves, and safety glasses.
- Equipment: Extension ladders, a cordless drill or screw-gun, metal shears or snips, a circular saw with a metal cutting blade, and a chalk line.
Obtain Permits
A permit is always crucial for a metal roof installation project, as most jobs involve structural alterations or could impact the safety of your home. You will just need to contact your local building or planning department, as they will handle the specific requirements and receive the application for your area.
Examine and measure the roof
Before you install roof decking, inspect the roof structure for damaged debris, and then make repairs as needed. Next, take measurements for all sections of the roof to determine how much material to buy. To determine the area, measure the length and width and account for the roof’s slope, then order at least 10% more material to account for cutting, waste, and extra.
Prepare the job site.
To prepare the job site, protect landscaping by laying tarps over shrubs and plants. Inform neighbors about the project involving noise. Also, make arrangements for pets to be safe and out of the way.
From Start to Finish: Your Metal Roof Installation Journey
To install a metal roof that is both secure and waterproof, it is important to follow a detailed step-by-step metal roof installation process. A careful review of the installation sequence and the details associated with each of the steps prevents failures and helps ensure that your new roof will last for many years.
Keep reading this step-by-step guide to metal roof installation:
Step 1: Prepare the Roof and Install Underlayment
Before getting started, make sure the roof deck is clean and sound. Cover the full surface with a quality underlayment, such as synthetic felt, lapping each course by several inches. This underlayment serves as an important barrier to moisture and provides another layer of protection for your home.
Step 2: Set the Drip Edge and Trim
Install metal drip-edge trim along all eaves to help direct water from your fascia to the gutters. Then, fasten the gable trim to the rake edges, sealing the sides. Proper installation of trim is important for a clean, finished look to the roof and to help avoid wind and water infiltration.
Step 3: Place and Secure the First Panels
Begin placing panels at the bottom edge of the roof, opposite the prevailing wind. Mark out a chalk line to ensure the first panel is square with the eave and fasten it down securely using the specialized roofing screws with rubber washers. Take your time, as the placement of the first panel will determine the placement of the panels moving forward on the roof.
Part 4: Overlap and fasten your next panel
You’ll repeat this step relatively. You’ll want to overlap your next panel’s edge over the last one. Typically, manufacturers suggest a distance of either one rib or corrugation to do this. Each panel will be fastened with screws, which will also compress the rubber washer underneath to make a watertight seal. Overlap and fasteners should remain consistent to prevent leakage.
Part 5: Install flashing where necessary
Next, install any metal flashing around any penetrations in the roof; chimneys, vents, or valleys will have flashing installed on them. This is an important step to prevent leaks in the cut panel areas, where they are most likely to occur. Flashing will help draw the water away from any penetrations and off the roof.
Part 6: Install the ridge cap and complete your final inspection
Once all of the panels are on the roof, fasten the ridge cap at the apex, overlapping as necessary. Complete the process by checking the roof, sweeping the ground with a magnetic tool to pick up any metal filings, and ensuring all fasteners are tight.
Conclusion
A new metal roof will give your home years of protection, functionality, and modern looks when properly planned, great quality products, and correct installation practices are followed. We’re here to help you along the way, from gathering your tools to the final inspection. You can count on us for answers and assistance, as our job is to find you a lasting and reliable roof that you can feel proud of and add confidence in the safety and value of your home.
FAQs
How long does a metal roof last?
Up to 50 years or more with proper maintenance.
Can I install a metal roof myself?
Yes, with the right tools and preparation, but professional installation is recommended for the best results.
Are metal roofs noisy in the rain?
No, proper insulation and underlayment minimize noise.
