QA

Question: How Do I Install A Metal Roof

Can I install a metal roof myself?

While most metal roofing styles can be installed as an advanced DIY project, metal roofing installation is complicated and can vary slightly based on the brand of panels or shingles that you select. We recommend that you install a metal roof with one or two helpers and fall protection equipment designed for roof work.

Do you have to put plywood under metal roof?

As long as the interior of your roof is protected from moisture accumulation, underlayment is not required, though homeowners planning to insulate their house heavily may choose to install plywood to protect their investment.

What is the screw pattern for metal roofing?

Lap screws are spaced 12” to 18” on center. The panel screws are spaced out so that every third corrugation has a screw including both sides of the panel sidelap. When the corrugated sheeting is 39” wide instead of 37” wide the screw placement will be slightly different as shown in the diagram below.

Where do you put the screws on a metal roof?

And most U.S. metal roofing manufacturers say that you should put screws into the flat, because this location offers a solid wood surface just beneath the metal panel, resulting in a safer, tighter, more secure seal.

Does a metal roof need strapping?

Single wood strapping is better than no strapping, as it creates a wider gap between the existing roof decking and the metal roof, but doesn’t afford enough ventilation to resolve condensation issues. It also does not allow leveling of the roof, which corrects swells and swales on the roof.

What are the disadvantages of a metal roof?

Disadvantages of metal roofs Affordability. Metal roofs can be as much as two or three times more expensive than other roofing materials. Noisiness. Expansion, contraction and fasteners. Inconsistency of color match. Performance.

How often do you screw metal roofing?

Corrugated roof panels and other exposed fastener metal roofs are usually held together with screws every 18 inches or 2 feet. You will want to note your metal roof screw pattern, so you know where to look for potential problems.

Do metal roof need furring strips under?

Get quotes from up to 3 pros! If you’re updating your home with a sleek metal roof, you may wonder if you should add wood stripping under the new roof. Furring strips bolster insulation to prevent condensation. It’s not ideal to install a metal roof over shingles without furring strips.

Do you need a vapor barrier under a metal roof?

To avoid condensation buildup with your metal roof, you will need to have a moisture barrier in place. It depends on air temperature, water vapor near the metal panels, the prevalence of warm air in and around your roof assembly, and other conditions.

What underlayment do you use on a metal roof?

Known by many different names (including felt paper, roofing tar paper, and asphalt-soaked felt), felt underlayment is the most commonly used type of underlayment material on steep-slope metal roofs.

Do you need tar paper under metal roofing?

Metal roof underlayment is an important component of a metal roofing system. Some might choose to skip using underlayment to save money. However, the metal roof underlayment acts as an added layer of protection. The short answer is yes, your metal roof does need underlayment .

Can metal roofing be screwed to OSB?

No, you do not need to screw into solid lumber (joists, stripping,etc.). As you can see, the thinnest material they recommend is 1/2” (7/16”) OSB board at 9” on center up to 24” on center. Be sure to follow their instructions in order to obtain the warranty.

Can you walk on a metal building roof?

Most metal roofs are manufactured and installed in such a way as to be safe to walk across without the worry of damaging the roof. You might mark or scuff the finish or paint on your metal roof, but average foot traffic shouldn’t significantly impact the longevity or performance of your metal roof.

How long should metal roof screws be?

Here are some general guidelines: Standing Seam Metal Roofing – 1” pancake heads are the most typical screws to fasten the clips. ½” Corrugated – The screw will fasten to the high of the panel in a roofing application. This panel is ½” in height, so you will need at least a 1.5” long screw.

How far apart should roof strapping be?

Panels should be end lapped a minimum of 6 inches. End laps should never be run in a continuous line. Stagger end laps at least 1 foot apart.

How much overhang should a metal roof have?

A typical metal roof overhang may be 2 to 4 inches, or even less. Some slight overhang is recommended, in conjunction with a drip edge flashing, to prevent water from getting under the roofing and onto underlying wood.

Can you walk 29 gauge metal roof?

Generally speaking, it is as safe to walk on a metal roof 30 or 50 years after installation as the day it was installed.

Should a metal roof be vented?

Proper ventilation is needed to ensure the energy efficiency a metal roof provides. An effectively ventilated metal roof helps to prevent energy waste and excess cooling cost that can occur when attic heat builds up with.

Can you put metal roofing directly on plywood?

Metal roofing should not be installed directly over the top of bare plywood. You do not have to install roofing shingles or other roofing material, but a felt sheet over the plywood is the bare minimum. When the metal expands or contracts with changing temperatures, it can tear or wear away the felt sheeting.