Metal Roofing Installation Guide

Having metal roofing can have many advantages. You can enjoy a more energy efficient home and a longer lasting roof. Here’s what you need to know to have your own roof installed.

Step 1- Measuring The Roof

The first thing you need to do is to measure the roof. You will want to measure the height and add whatever kind of overhang you would like. In most cases this will be anywhere from two to four inches. Measure the length of the roof all around as well. This way you can get the material you need for the roof and the edging.

Step 2- Decide on Your Roof

There are two main types of metal roofing you can choose from. An R-Panel metal roof is a panel sheet that has high ridges. A V-Crimp roof is the most simple to install and does not require lap screws to install. Check out both styles and decide which one will work best for you.

Step 3- Prepare the Roof

When installing a metal roof it’s a good idea to remove the old shingles. It’s not necessary, but it gives a cleaner appearance and you won’t have to worry about the old shingles being there later. Removing the old shingles is pretty easy. You can just tear off composite shingles with a roofing shovel.
After you’ve removed the old shingles, you can use 30 pound tar paper or roof felt for the base of your new roof.

Step 4- Installing the Metal Roof

Your edging should be first. This will run around the entire perimeter of the roof. Secure this in place by using a hammer and roofing nails.

For the roof itself you may need another person to help you out. The sheets can be long and awkward to handle by yourself. Starting at the right side of the building (some people will start on the left if they are left handed as it’s easier to orient this way) run one metal sheet at a time. The section you start with should run vertically along the roof. Use your chalk line to find two foot sections. The metal panel should be secured every two feet across as you work.

Overlap the first sheet with the second. If you’ve chosen to use a V-crimp roof the crimps will lie on each other. The R-panel roofing will have a lip that will overlap the ridge.

Continue to overlap the sheets until all the roof sheeting has been installed. When you install the last sheet measuere the extra space left past the edge of the roof. Mark the row just beyond the edge. Use your metal snips to cut along this row. Then screw the last sheet in place.

Now you can install the trim work. The trim will cover the sides of the roof at the edges. It will also cover the top peak too. You may have to notch it in the middle so it will bend more easily over the ridges.