Our How To Install Metal Roof guide outlines the general steps that would be involved in installing a metal porch roof so you can decide
if this project is within your capabilities.
Metal roofs
costs significantly more than traditional asphalt shingled roofs. However, they can last far longer and
are perfect for areas prone to wildfires.
When installing a metal roof, you must pay attention to the smallest details.
Mary and I love the look of a metal porch roof; there's nothing quite like it. And there are so many
color options too. Our How To Install Metal Roof guide will give you basic information about installing
a colorful porch roof.
Standing Seam and Metal Shake Roof
photo courtesy of MetalRoofing.com
Although from the ground it looks fairly easy, metal roof installation takes both special tools, a working
knowledge of those tools, and roofing experience. Most homeowners do not possess these skills and should
consult with a licensed metal roofing contractor.
Our How To Install Metal Roof guide will explain the steps for both standing seam metal roofing and metal shingles.
The following steps are for assessment purposes only and should not be used for actual construction.
Be sure to follow all manufacturers instructions to the letter if installing metal roofing yourself.
You should also consult with your local building codes department prior to installation to ensure your project meets local
code requirements.
Standing Seam Metal Roofing Installation
You should realize a standing seam metal roof is more difficult to install than metal shingles although it is the
most popular.
Ordering Materials
Include at least 3 - 6 inches of overlap and the same for overhangs along the roof perimeter
when ordering your metal panels. A metal roofing square is 100 square feet - you'll be ordering
by the square.
How To Install Metal Roof - Safety First
Roofing is dangerous work. I've fallen off a ladder; it wasn't the fall that hurt but rather that sudden
stop at the end.
Make sure all ladders are in good operating condition
Make sure there are least two or more people on site when working
Use a fall arrest system that is properly secured
Mark off areas where tools may drop
Keep children away - period.
Focus
How To Install Metal Roof - Roof Preparation
Your first issue is whether or not to remove the existing shingles. It is recommend that you do remove
the shingles for standing seam metal roofs. If you don't, you may find that asphalt shingles can
cause dents and lines over time when using standing seam metal panels.
Removing the existing shingles will also expose deck roof damage and you'll have the
opportunity for repairs. Another reason to remove existing shingles is for the installation of
a water barrier.
Condensation occurs due to temperature fluctuations. Your metal porch roof will last over 50 years or more
so having the best roof underlayment is a wise investment. You will want to cover the entire roof with
the underlayment.
If you live in snow and ice country you need
to take it one step further by laying down a row width of ice and water barrier along the
eaves and valleys. I've used ice and water barrier and I'm sold on its ability to prevent water damage.
How To Install Metal Roof - Standing Seam Specs
Standing seam metal roofs are made from sheet metal roof panels joined and
attached to the roof decking with hidden fasteners. Panels are typically 12, 16, or
19 inches wide and are made from copper, aluminum, or galvanized steel.
Ribs are formed when the panels are joined and can be anywhere from 1 inch to 1 1/2 inches in height.
To accommodate standing seam panels, your roof must have a 2:12 rise and run (sometimes called pitch).
However, you may find some manufacturers that require more pitch so be sure your roof meets or exceeds
their product specifications.
We show you how to calculate the rise and run of your porch roof.
Use the right fasteners either supplied or approved by the manufacturer. Each overlapping panel
hides the fasteners of the panel already in place.
Panels are either formed at your home or can be cut and delivered by the manufacturer.
Make sure
you have adequate space around your home to work with the panels.
How To Install Metal Roof - Drip Edge and First Panel
Like any roofing project, installing the drip edge is the first step.
Repeat this process for the
gable rake.
Don't forget to lay the underlayment over
the fascia trim to prevent water from collecting under the drip edge.
Now its time to install the first sheet metal panel in our "how to install metal roof" process. Normally
you will install the first panel over the gable edge trim. This is where it is extremely
important to follow manufacturer's installation instructions.
Continue fastening panels by securing them with hidden fasteners.
Here's a short video showing the panel
installation.
It is nearly impossible to show each step in our How To Install Metal Roof guide as the process is dependent on the product manufacturer.
Working around vents, chimneys, etc., can be tricky and requires experience to ensure a tight seal. That's
why we recommend you consult with a licensed contractor. We make that easy - use MetalRoofing.com's Contractor Finder!
If attempting this yourself as a homeowner, we recommend you roof a small outbuilding or shed first to
gain more experience.
Make sure all ladders are in good operating condition
Panels are either formed at your home or can be cut and delivered by the manufacturer.
