Metal roofing can be seen almost anywhere. Covering bus stops in the city, covering barns in the countryside, or covering undercover play areas. Metal roofs are often used in these cases because of their longevity, easy maintenance, and simple aesthetic.
During the last two decades, however, metal roofing has been growing in popularity for residential homes. The industrial-looking corrugated roof or simple standing seam metal roofing has been replaced by metal roofing systems made to look like slate, cedar shingles, and more. While it’s gaining in popularity, finding an experienced professional to install this type of roof can be a challenge.
Differences In Metal Roofing Installation
Shingles, tiles, shakes, and other roofs can be installed in much the same way. There’s a roof deck, underlayment, and then layers of roofing (asphalt, cedar, slate, etc.). With aluminum roofing, the material can either come in a shingle or panel form.
The difficulty with metal roofing is how the material works with the flashing. Found around chimneys, vents, valleys, and other parts of the system, technical installation is key to prevent any water from intruding. Metal screws and aluminum ring shank nails are used instead of roofing nails to hold the roofing in place.
Re-Roofing a Metal Roof over Shingles Considerations
What materials are you going over? Is the decking plywood, OSB, shiplap or skip sheathing? In order to go over the top, the roof must have a solid deck without any holes or gaps. This gives protection against wind and ensures a solid install. Also, how many layers of roofing you currently have can be the difference between going over the top or having to tear off.
Today the code only allows 2 layers of roofing, anything above that will have to be removed. The condition of your current roof is also a consideration. We definitely don’t want to put good over bad, that makes no sense. If you have leak or rot issues, it’s best to tear off your existing roof and take care of any issues.
Weight is also a concern when re-roofing a home instead of tearing off and starting from scratch. If you were to put a slate roof or cement tiles over an existing roof, there may be too much weight for the original structure. In this case, check with your local building codes to see if any engineering is needed.
With a metal roof, weight is less of an issue. Aluminum is the lightest roofing material currently on the market, weighing just 40 pounds for 100 square feet of roof. This will help assuage any local building department specifications you may need to deal with.
There are cases where you might be looking to install a metal roof over an existing roof that still has plenty of life left. Maybe you are considering an exterior remodel and want to incorporate the sleek design of a slate profile metal roof.
The cost could also be a consideration. Doing an overlay of your current roofing is more budget-friendly because there is no need to remove and dispose of the old roof. A roof inspection will need to be conducted to make sure the current roof is in good shape.
Metal Roofing Advantages
No matter the reason, re-roofing a home with metal roofing is a quicker, less expensive way to give your home an immediate upgrade. This goes beyond just the curb appeal of a new roof, too. As we’ve mentioned, metal roofing is lighter than other materials, but there are other benefits as well.
Energy Efficiency
Aluminum reflects heat, which means cooling your home just became 30 percent cheaper than with traditional roofing materials. In some cases, you’ll be able to claim Energy Star tax credits when using aluminum roofing. Mountaintop Metal Roofing Permalock products are Energy Star rated, so working with us guarantees instant savings.
Longevity
Aluminum roofing won’t rot or wear away like wood or asphalt shingles and won’t rust like steel products. In fact, aluminum is used in many industrial applications because of its strength and longevity. That’s why Mountaintop Metal Roofing offers a non-prorated and transferable lifetime guarantee on all roofs we install.
It’s not a gimmick, it’s just the dependability of our roofing products. Moss may grow but won’t adhere to the surface. Maintenance – when needed – is as easy as hosing it off when debris collects after a storm. From ridge vents to valley flashing – aluminum roofing is truly one of those “set it and forget it” products.
Versatility
As durable as aluminum is, it’s also very easy to find a look to match your home. With several types of profiles, aluminum roofing can be made to complement the architecture of your home. Cedar shake, slate, and multiple standing seam profiles are available to give your home the look you want.
Aluminum roofing also comes in a wide variety of colors with more than 200 options. Unlike other products that need to be painted or stained a color, aluminum can be made with the color baked in. That means your roof will stay the same color for decades.
Work With Experience Professionals
Remember that with any roofing or re-roofing project, the materials are only as good as those who install it. We believe our metal roofing is the best on the market. But if incorrectly installed, it will still lead to the same leaks and damages common with other products.
Our crew has more than 20 years of experience installing metal roofs. We understand the little differences and nuances of metal roofing to ensure you and your roof gets the best results. Interested in pursuing metal roofing over your existing roofing system? Request a roof quote today and find out how we can help.