If you are considering upgrading the appearance of your roof, you will find that there are several options to choose from. If you decide that you want to install a metal roof, there are a few things you should know about how to install them. While metal roofs may look a little easier to install than shingles since there does not appear to be nearly as many pieces, you will find that there is actually still quite a bit of work involved. This is not designed to scare you away from installing a metal roof, but rather to inform you that they do not simply snap into place like manufacturers make it look.
Metal Roofing Installation Instructions
The first thing you will need to do when installing a metal roof is to decide whether or not you want to get rid of the current shingles. Metal roofs can be installed directly over shingles as long as they are asphalt, but you may be able to get some money for your old shingles. The next step will be to a synthetic roof underlayment. You will find that overlapping the underlayment by about six inches is perfect as this will ensure that the sheets do not separate. The next step is to install the drip edging, which is essentially the edge of the roof. When you install the drip edging, you will want to use washer head nails, and they should be spaced about a foot apart. Finally, you can begin installing the actual roofing. You will likely want to pre-drill holes in the roofing, so you can easily align the pieces with the holes drilled in the roof.
Corrugated Metal Roofing Installation
If you choose to install a corrugated metal roof, you will find that the installation process is pretty similar to ordinary metal roofs. You should begin by installing roof felt, and it should have about six inches of overlap. From there, you will take your sheets of metal and begin to lay them out where you plan on placing them, but do not completely secure them yet. Once everything is flush, you can begin to specialty nails to secure the pieces. The pieces should overlap their neighboring piece, and you caulk in between each set of pieces.
Metal Roofing Installation Over Shingles
When installing metal roofing over shingles, you will find that this is a easier process. Depending upon what gauge the metal is, you may be able to install it right over the shingles. Others may require you to use an underlayment.
Standing Seam Metal Roofing Installation
If you are going to install standing seam metal roofing, you should follow the same steps as the you would with other types of metal roofing, but there are a few differences. The first difference is that you will need tuck the eave into the ridge vent, which will help to secure and align the panels. You will also need to crimp the raised portion of the panels together.
Metal Roofing Installation can be a tedious process, but you should not try to take any shortcuts because you will find that it will actually cost you more time. You will find that this process is fairly easy to do with the right tools. A metal roof can give your roof a fresh, new appearance.