Is your roof simply not cutting it these days?
Are you tired of having to do tons of maintenance on a roof you will have to replace in just a few years? Or maybe you’re constantly having to deal with cracked or loose shingles that can’t handle the climate in your area. Luckily, we have the solution you’ve been waiting for.
The answer? A metal roof.
You’ve probably seen metal roofs on the commercial buildings around you. You might not have encountered them on a residential property before, though.
Metal roofs are quickly gaining in popularity among homeowners who are looking to:
If that sounds like you, then you’ve come to the right place! We’re breaking down how to install metal roofing on your home step by step.
So, you’re interested in a metal roof. You’re not alone! Here are some of the many benefits homeowners have experienced after installing metal roofing.
While a metal roof comes with many benefits, there are some downsides to consider, as well.
The cost of your new metal roof will vary greatly, depending on the type of material you choose. Here are some of the most popular options.
Aluminum has long been a go-to choice for commercial buildings. More and more homeowners are choosing this lightweight material for their residential properties. Coming it at around $4-$7 per square footage, aluminum sits squarely in the middle of the metal roofing price ranges.
Zinc roofing panels help any home instantly achieve a modern look. It’s also one of the most durable options on this list, lasting 80-100 years. Yup, you heard that right. For that price, though, you will certainly have to pay. Zinc costs $13-$25 per square foot.
Tin roofs aren’t actually tin roofs. Truly they are made of steel and then coated in a thin layer of tin. This helps keep the roof durable while evoking an old-fashioned look. That being said, if you are looking to replace your existing tin roof, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a manufacturer who still produces it. Imitation products are relatively affordable, though, coming in at $1.50-2 per square foot.
Steel roofing panels are the top choice for most homeowners. They are the perfect blend of durability and affordability. A steel roof will cost you roughly $2-$4 for each square foot of your roof.
If you are looking to make a style statement with the exterior of your home, copper roofing is for you. This luxury metal roofing material is beautiful and sturdy, albeit expensive. Copper roofing costs $13-$25 per square foot.
Ready to start your installation? Here is the equipment you’ll want to have on hand before you get started.
Here are the steps you should take to ensure a safe and accurate metal roof installation.
The first – and some might argue the most important – step is to accurately measure your roof. You’ll need to know the square footage of your roof in order to accurately purchase the correct number of metal panels. We recommend double-checking all of your measurements to prevent ordering too many or too few panels.
Next, you’ll want to prepare your roof for installation. This requires removing your existing roof. This can be a fairly simple process, but you’ll want to watch out for signs of damage in your roof’s structure as you do so. Water stains, spongy feeling boards, sagging, or holes need to be repaired before you move on to the next step.
In many cases, it may be necessary to install completely new underlayment in order to help protect your roof from water damage.
Unless you want water seeping under shingles and causing roof leaks, you absolutely must install a drip edge. Drip edges help seal the edges of your roof and keep your home secure from water damage.
Remember to place the vertical leg of your drip edge 1/4″ away from the fascia of the roof to avoid the wood rotting.
The moment you’ve been waiting for! It’s time to install your metal shingles or panels. For this step, we recommend sticking to the manufacturer’s instructions, as different types of metal roofing require different methods of installation. Installing metal roof panels according to the manufacturer’s instructions will allow you to use your warranties in case of any future problems.
The last step is to add your ridge caps and gutters. It’s important to measure your ridge cap with a level before installing it. This will prevent moisture from seeping in and damaging your attic roof from the vulnerable ridges.
Lastly, installing your gutters will help divert rainwater away from your roof and foundation.
Are you excited about the prospect of having a metal roof but are a little bit overwhelmed by the idea of installing it yourself?
No need to worry. Our knowledgeable team at Dreamworx Roofing has been installing residential and commercial metal roofs for years. We are expert installers who can talk you through every step of the process, from material selection to the final installation. Professional installation can help your roof last longer and work more effectively.
Contact us today to set up your free roof inspection!
“Living comfortably at home means living in a safe, cozy house that protects you from outside elements.” -Dreamworx Co-Owner, Charlie Anderson