QA

Quick Answer: How To Install Steel Roof Over Shingles

What is the best way to install a metal roof over shingles?

The first is to apply an approved underlayment over the old shingles. This is the fastest way to install but it doesn’t provide the flattest surface for metal roofing installation. The second way is to install 1×4 purlins over the shingles. This is more expensive but will also be higher quality.

Can you put metal roofing directly over shingles?

In almost every case, the answer is yes, you can lay down a new metal roof over an existing shingle roof. This is one of the many reasons metal roofs keep growing in popularity – their installation doesn’t require completely tearing off the existing roof, which is a time-consuming and expensive job.

Do you have to remove shingles before installing a metal roof?

Metal roofs can be installed over your existing roof without tearing off shingles, provided local building codes allow it. While shingle removal is the preferred route, tear-off is messy and raises the cost of the job.

Can you put metal roof over shingles without furring strips?

One option for installing a metal roof over shingles without furring strips is to use a cross-batten style. A cross-batten technique involves laying down vertical battens first. Next, the battens attach through the roof deck to your rafters.

Do you need to put strapping under metal roofing?

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 type of underlayment do you use on a metal roof?

The traditional and most common material used for roof underlayment on a steep-slope metal roof is non-perforated, asphalt-impregnated felt underlayment. There are several types of felt underlayment including both organic reinforced and inorganic reinforced.

How many layers of shingles can you put a metal roof over?

How many layers of shingles are currently installed? Most building codes allow you to install a metal roof over 1-2 layers of shingles, but no more. Verify codes in your area before installation.

How much does it cost to put a metal roof over shingles?

Cost to Install Metal Roof Over Shingles It costs an average of $4 to $30 per square foot to install a metal roof over shingles. In many cases, metal roofing can be installed over existing shingles, making metal roofs a popular choice.

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.

Can you walk on a metal roof without damaging it?

Standing Seam Metal Roofs – can be easily walked on without damage, but they are steep and slippery. Safety equipment use is a necessity. Corrugated Steel Roofs – are also easily walked on without damage as their installation is done directly to the roof decking.

Which is better a metal roof or shingles?

Metal roofing is durable and routinely lasts 2-4 times longer than shingles. Homeowners like the idea of buying only one more roof in their life instead of potentially several. Metal roofing outperforms shingles in cases of hail and other severe weather events.

Can you put underlayment on top of shingles?

If you are dealing with a decent number of cracked or damaged shingles, you will need an underlayment installed over the shingles. This can be identified and implemented via your roofing contractor during the roofing installation process. An underlayment is meant to go over existing shingles to give added protection.

What is the advantage of a metal roof over shingles?

Metal roofing is far more energy efficient than asphalt shingles. Metal roofing offers homeowner’s significant energy savings through the use of cool roof pigments and above sheathing ventilation. Cool roof pigments are designed to reflect sunlight which lowers the amount of energy absorbed by the roof material.

Does a metal roof need a vapor barrier?

Metal roofs and buildings require specific insulation and vapor barrier to meet the demands of condensation and breath-ability. Depending on whether your building is sheeted or not, or if you require insulation, we have it all, including the necessary tapes for installation.

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.

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.

How far should a metal roof overhang?

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.

What goes under a standing seam metal roof?

Underlayment is usually a felt (15 lb, 30 lb, or synthetic) material used over your decking to provide additional protection. That makes it a crucial component to your metal roof. For your standing seam metal roof, your underlayment will be a self-adhering, high heat ice and water shield.

Do you use tar paper under metal roofing?

Historically, asphalt-saturated felt underlayments, sometimes called roofing tar paper, were the go-to roof underlayment choice. To offset this disadvantages, we recommend selecting a synthetic underlayment for metal roofing projects instead of the asphalt family of products.

Does a metal roof need furring strips?

When installing a metal roof over an existing roof, insulate the spaces between the wood strips with rigid insulation to prevent condensation before installing the roofing. You also need to add furring strips. Twenty-four inches is a common spacing of furring strips for a metal roof.