How to do metal roofing

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.

It is possible to install a metal roof over an old roof, thus eliminating the extra cost and hassle associated with a tear-off. (If you go this route, be sure to consult a roofing contractor about your specific home.) Unlike many other roofing materials, a metal roof can easily be installed in the winter.

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.

CON: Metal roofs are expensive.

The many years of service that a metal roof promises come at a high cost. While you might have to pay for replacing a conventional asphalt shingle roof several times over the lifespan of your home, a high-quality metal roof could very likely be the last roof your home will ever need.

Metal roofs are an attractive and long-lasting option for homes, but many homeowners worry these roofs can interfere with Wi-Fi and even cell phone signals, affecting how they use technology in the home. While a metal roof can interfere with a wireless connection, it is unlikely to be the only culprit.

Such a roof can be reasonably expected to be some 50 to 60 degrees cooler than a darker color asphalt shingles roof. It is best to choose a light color metal such as white, light bronze, beige, peach, light green or blue, if you live in a region that has a lot of sun and a hotter climate.

Inorganic (ceramic) – Pigment that is created from mineral compounds, mostly metal oxides. Since these are engineered to perform up to high standards, paint with this kind of pigment resists against fading much longer than organic pigments. These colors are earth tones, including browns, greens, and beiges.

24 Gauge Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Standing seam is the best metal roofing system. The main advantage of this panel is that the fasteners are concealed making it the most weathertight roofing panel. However, it is also the most expensive option and it will only be available in 24 gauge or heavier.

Metal roofs do not make a house hotter than other types of roof materials. Because metal roofs have a low thermal mass, they reflect light and heat rather than absorbing it like asphalt shingles. You should have no worry at all about a properly installed metal roof making your house hotter.

A metal roof is just one of many building materials that may weaken cell phone reception. So, metal roofs don’t actually interrupt cell phone reception. If you have consistently good cell phone signal in all areas in your home, a metal roof shouldn’t make any noticeable difference.

That’s why having a newly installed roof can save you on insurance premiums. Insurance companies also look favorably on metal roofing because research has shown that homes with metal roofs receive less damage from storms and house fires, which means the company is much less likely to have to pay an insurance claim.

In fact, metal roofs can stand up to you walking on them better than ceramic tiles and some other roofing systems. Generally speaking, it is as safe to walk on a metal roof 30 or 50 years after installation as the day it was installed.

Wear soft, rubber-soled shoes for the best traction. Position your ladder as close to where you need to be on the roof, but away from any known weak spots. It should extend at least 3 feet above the roof edge so you have something to hold onto.

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.

Many homeowners ask, “Can you power wash a metal roof?” and the answer is yes you can, but we don’t recommend it. Mainly because a power washer can dent a metal roof if its used to spray the roof too closely.

Roof Cleaning Costs

Cleaning a roof costs $294 and $592, or $432 on average. Expect to pay between $0.20 and $0.60 per square foot.

Special Metal Roof Cleaning Circumstances

Mix: 1/3 cup of powdered laundry detergent + 1 quart of bleach (5% solution) + 3 quarts of water. Dip a soft brush or rag in the cleanser and apply to affected areas. Lightly scrub the surface until the area is free of mildew or mold. Rinse the surface well with plain water.

Cost of Cleaning a Metal Roof

The average cost for this kind of metal roof cleaning is between $0.20 and $0.70 a square foot.

Roof Cleaning is a Regular Part of Roof Care

Neglecting your roof can lead to creeping damage that may be expensive to repair and could cause loss of personal property from intrusion of water and mold. Doing at least an annual cleaning and inspection will go a long way to prevent long-term issues with your roof.