Metal Roof Installations

Types of Metal Roofs

Metal roofs come in many different types. Here are a few you will be able to choose from:

• Zinc: This metal is easy to work with and naturally weather resistant. Zinc will not rust and has a lifespan of roughly 80 to 100 years.
• Steel: This option is suitable for places with heavy snowfall and hail due to the strength of the material. Steel will not dent as easily as aluminum or other metals.
• Aluminum: This type of roof is best suited for coastal climates because it resists saltwater corrosion. However, aluminum is not the most robust metal, which means it dents easily. If your location is prone to hail, opt for another roofing option.
• Copper: This type is the most expensive yet the most durable. Copper roofs can last over 100 years when properly installed.

Types of Metal Roof Installations

Metal roofs can be installed on the house just being built, called a new construction home. Contractors prefer this type of installation method because it makes the rest of the house building process easier. This is because the house will be shielded from the elements by the roof, which prevents water from damaging the home’s interior.

Metal roofs can also be installed on a home with a similar roof or replace an existing, metal-styled roof. Replacing an existing roof is known as a retrofit installation.

Retrofit installations can be performed using a recovery/overlay method. This means installing your new metal roof over the current roof you have. This method can significantly reduce cost as there is no need to tear off and dispose of your older roof.

Several factors may prohibit the retrofit installation option. Local building codes and prior roof damage are the two primary reasons a retrofit may not be a possibility for your situation.

Building Codes: Some local building codes have restrictions on how many layers a roof can have before adding a layer. If your application exceeds their number limit, you will have to remove your old roof before installing your metal roof.

Water Damage: If the existing roof on your home had any water damage, you could not just add another layer on top of it. The substrate below the tiles will need to be replaced or repaired before you can move forward with your roofing project. If you find water damage ensure you have a contractor perform a thorough inspection to prevent further damage.

Preparing for your roof installation

There are a few critical components to a roof installation project that one must consider when taking on this project.

Substrate: The roof’s substrate is the plywood, planking, or OSB (Oriented Strand Board) that the tiles are secured to. These are the base of the roof and are attached to the top frame of the house.

Underlayment: The two types of underlayment that are typically used on roof installations are felt and synthetic.

Felt: This underlayment is an asphalt-saturated felt blended with a few materials, then soaked in a waterproofing agent. Felt underlayment has been used for many years and has been easy to work with and install. Also, felt underlayment is a low-cost material compared to synthetic underlayment.

Synthetic: This type of underlayment is resistant to rotting, buckling, and cracking. It also prevents the substrate from drawing moisture from the tar or shingles. Synthetic underlayment is also slip-resistant, which can aid as a safety feature for workers.

Metal Roof Panels: These panels come in various colors and sizes to cater to all budgets and styles of homes. Every roofing contractor will have multiple options to choose from and will probably order your favorite style if they do not carry it.

Fasteners and Clips: Roofing panels will not just sit atop the roof by themselves. Depending on which style you go with, these panels will need to be attached with clips or fasteners.

Trim/Flashing: Flashing is installed near chimneys, vents, and skylights. Flashing is used to seal these pieces protruding from your roof to prevent water from damaging your substrate. Trim is typically installed on the edges of the roof.

Sealing your roof: A roof is only good if it can prevent water and other elements from invading your home. Butyl tapes and other sealants such as caulking are used to ensure your home stays sealed. Your metal roof will contract and expand with changes in the weather, so your bonds must be able to withstand that movement.

A professional roofing contractor is highly suggested to ensure peace of mind with this installation. We offer standard to custom roof services.