The Metal Roofing Installation Process

More and more homeowners are considering a metal roofing installation as opposed to the standard roofing shingles for a wide variety of reasons. The metal roof provides a longer useful life than a standard shingle roof and will wear better as well. While shingles are normally warranted for 15 to 30 years, they usually start to stain and wear in far less time. A standard metal roof is typically warranted for 50 years and will still look good well into its useful life and will not stain or fade like shingles. Another benefit to the newer style metal roofs is that they immediately raise the value of your home. Where a shingle roof is a standard that most people expect in a house, a stylish metal roof is considered a very desirable upgrade.

Installing a metal roof is a little more complicated than a normal shingle roof, but if you choose a competent contractor they can ensure a great final product for you. There is also a wide variety of styles and colors of metal roofs available for residential homes so take a little time to decide which one looks best on your home. Also, be sure to ask the contractor about their experience with metal roofing installation as you want make sure it will turn out perfect.

Once you have decided on style and color of your new metal roof, your contractor can explain the process of installation to you. Most metal roofs are installed as preconfigured panels that interlock with each other to provide a tight fit against the elements. Since every roof is different, the contractor will have to modify the panels somewhat to accommodate for vents and fireplace chimneys in most homes to ensure a good seal.

A typical metal roofing installation involves securing the roofing material to the roof with screws instead of nails that are used on standard shingles. This metal roofing material can be installed over top of an older roof either by stripping the old roof off first, or by installing furring strips on top of the old roof. Both of these work well and will provide a very secure mounting for the new metal roof. You also have a few options with your new metal roof and can decide to add a breathable membrane between the metal roof panels and the actual roof itself. This will help with insulating the roof and provide a sound dampener as well. This is an upgrade to many styles of metal roof, but worth the extra cost.

The installation will take a day or two to complete depending on the size of your roof and the style of metal roofing you have chosen. Once the installation is completed, your contractor will explain the warranty and you will be all set to enjoy your new metal roof for years to come.