Looking to invest in a new metal roof?
Want to avoid the most common mistakes?
A metal roof is a rather large investment. It’s typically double that of an asphalt shingle. So, it’s important that you get the most out of your investment right? You want the highest quality installation and you want it done right the first time.
We get it.
Over the past 3 decades, RoofCrafters has had many property owners come to us with problems with their metal roofs. We see the same problems happening over and over with new metal roofs. By educating you we hope to help you avoid the common pitfalls.
So in this article, we’ll share the 3 most common problems we’ve found with metal roof installations. Hopefully, by the end, you’ll be better prepared and know what to look for when choosing a metal roofing contractor for your project.
Installing the Wrong Underlayment
Metal roofing can be installed using 3 types of underlayment.
- Traditional Felt Paper
- Synthetic Underlayment
- Ice and Water Self Adhered Underlayment
1. Traditional 15# or 30# felt paper is rarely seen being installed under metal roofs these days. The use of felt paper in the roofing industry has nearly become non-existent. The synthetic or self-adhered underlayments provide a much better installation.
2. Synthetic underlayment has become a very popular choice for use under metal roofing. Made of plastic it offers some additional benefits including the following:
- Tougher - Less likely to tear than felt
- Lighter - Easier to carry on the roof
- Safer - Has a durable finish that helps from slipping off the roof
- Water Resistant - Repels water and won't allow mold to grow
3. Ice and water self-adhered underlayment has become one of the most popular choices for use under metal roof systems. A great option for an underlayment under metal roofing if the correct product is installed.
Time and time again we see roofers using a self-adhered ice and water shield underlayment that is not rated for high temperatures. When this happens self-adhered underlayment can get hot and melt under the metal roof. By making sure your contractor uses a high-temperature-rated ice and water shield, you’ll avoid this problem.
Improper Flashing Installation
The most important part of a metal roof is not the metal panels. Yes, they’re very important but not the most important. The flashing detail work on a metal roof system is typically what we see that fails prematurely. This can literally cost you thousands of dollars to repair if it is not done correctly the first time.
Here are the flashing details that we see done improperly on metal roofs:
- Flashing around a chimney
- Flashing around a skylight
- Dormer flashing
- Cricket flashings
- Dead valley flashing
- Roof transition flashings
- Pipe vent flashings
Anyone of these flashing details on a metal roof could potentially cause a leak. And therefore cost you thousands of dollars to get repaired, should they not be done right the first time. Leaks on a metal roof are prevented in the flashing details. The details matter!
Not Enough Fasteners to Meet Wind Uplift
A metal roof is one of the highest-rated roof systems for wind uplift. This means your metal roof should withstand some extreme winds should they ever head your way. Unfortunately, we see roofers not adding the proper amount of clips or screws. This has to be done on a standing seam application to meet manufacturer specifications.
We also see roofers on an exposed fastener roof skipping rows of screws. Yes, doing so saves installers time and money, however, the roof is designed a certain way and has wind uplift requirements. Skipping screws goes against metal roof engineering.
When the installation instruction is followed, you can rest assured that you’ll have the best roof should a storm ever come your way.
Get a Checklist to Help You Hire a Professional Metal Roof Contractor
We’ve created a checklist that’ll help you vet local metal roof roofing companies in your area. It also has some frequently asked questions along with the answers so you’ll know what to expect while interviewing potential metal roofing contractors in your area.
How Much Do the Best Metal Roofs Cost?
Now you know the 3 problems to look out for when getting a metal roof. While any one of them could be a big deal. Keep in mind it doesn't mean they’ll happen to you. Being aware and discussing them with your contractor will surely help.
The truth is a metal roof is one of the best investments that can be made into our homes. Installed correctly they provide the best protection during extreme weather conditions. And bonus they look great too!
So we’ve written another article where we'll provide you with the best metal roofs and the average cost.
Our family here at RoofCrafters has been installing metal roofs for over 30 years. If you live in one of our service areas of South Carolina, Georgia, or Florida, and you’d like to learn more about working with our team of metal roof professionals. We’d love to come out and go over all of the metal roof options with you.
