Installing Metal Roofing: The Details Behind The Steps

If you are currently preparing yourself for replacing your old roof on your own, you might already know that the steps of installing metal roofing are fairly easy, which is true. However, there are some people who might not know the reasons why these steps need to be taken. That is why we will be explaining them right now.

The first step in installing metal roofing is to remove the old roof and clear the surface of all leftover nails and rubble. This is important so that there are no bumps or barbs that can become obstacles to installing metal roofing.

It is also necessary to check the old wood for signs of termites. Before installing metal roofing, you have to make sure that the frame of the roof is able to withstand the weight of the new material and the pressures during construction. If not, you should consider replacing the wood first.

Another vital step in installing metal roofing is the drawing of guidelines for the laying down of the metal sheets. This will ensure that the sheets are all laid down straight. This particular step in installing metal roofing is more crucial when using flat metal sheets where it is very hard to see if the metal sheets are laid at the right angle or distance from the previous sheet.

Making each sheet overlap with the next while installing metal roofing is also very important. This move makes water leakages practically impossible. It will also prevent snow from being blown in during torrential storms. An overlap of at least 5 inches is recommended.

After installing metal roofing sheets, you now have to attach the metal edging around the perimeter of the roof. Besides giving a completed look to the metal roof, the edging also serves to seal off the holes between the metal sheets and the base of the roof.

In order to really make sure that the gaps are all sealed, you can also apply some rubber strips under the edges of the roof. This will prevent the propagation of insects and other small critters inside your roof.

Finally, it is time for the metal cap. This is the very last step in installing metal roofing. A metal cap is attached to the crown of the roof by using screws. The gaps formed between the edge of the metal roofing cap and the actual roof surface can also be sealed off using caulk or rubber strips.

As mentioned earlier, the installation of metal roofing is very easy. In fact, we are certain that you will be able to do a terrific job with your own roof.

But now that you clearly understand the reasons behind each of the steps in installing metal roofing, we hope that you will pay even more attention to the tiny details of your installation process and be even more thorough in doing all the steps. After all, the more successful you are in installing metal roofing, the better protected your house will be in the years to come.