Is It Possible to Install Metal Roof over Shingles?
Metal roofs are popular because of their low cost and long lifespan, and they can be very useful in some circumstances. Can they, however, be applied directly to shingled roofs? Here's what you should be aware of while constructing your roof by commercial roofing companies.
Is it Possible?
In almost every case, new metal roofing can be installed over a present shingle roof. Metal roofing is thin, despite its durability; while asphalt shingles weigh up to 4 pounds/sq ft., metal roofing is as little as one pound per square foot. In most instances, adding metal roofing over shingles would not dramatically increase the total load, so there's no need to remove the current shingles.
Is It a Smart Move?
As in other items, it depends on the situation, such as the structure type and the overall objectives. Metal roofs will save money because they don't require removing the current roofing material. They can also apply insulation to the roof of a building, preventing warm and cold air from escaping. In addition, instead of absorbing heat, metal roofs reflect it away from their surfaces. This prevents the underlying shingle roof's extra insulation from serving as a heat trap.
That being said, there are a few things to think about before agreeing to add a metal roof. There are some of them:
If your current shingle roof leaks, look for rafters or rotting sheeting and patch them before building the new roof.
Consult with the local HOA, zoning, and building authorities to see whether metal-over-shingle installations are prohibited.
Any structural problems caused by the current roof's weight, such as sagging decking or buckled trusses must be addressed first.
It's also a good idea to put something between the shingles and the new roof to prevent granules from touching the metal and causing corrosion.
Metal Roofing's Benefits
Metal roofing has a number of advantages in addition to possible cost savings, including:
Long lifespans: A properly constructed metal roof will last for four to five decades before needing to be replaced.
Durability: The metal roofs endure a variety of extreme weather conditions, including ice storms, scorching summer temperatures, pounding hail, and gale-force winds.
Low maintenance: Metal roofs that have been built properly seldom need regular maintenance or costly repairs.
Lower cooling bills: Since metal roofs have special coatings that simulate heat, they encourage cooler interior temperatures, reducing the need for air conditioning.
Putting a Metal Roof on Top of Shingles
Installing metal roof over shingles can be done in two ways. The first phase entails applying new underlayment to the shingles. In the event that water migrates underneath the metal roof, the underlayment will provide an efficient line of protection. The underlayment can also serve as a barrier between the shingle and metal roofs, preventing granules from corroding the metal over time.
The second approach involves installing the new metal roof with battens or purlins. Depending on the configuration of the roofing panels, the contractor screws purlins into the roof deck with this process. The purlin framing is then covered with the metal roof. This approach allows the contractor to create a smooth surface for roofing panels without dealing with the numerous grooves and other irregularities that come with shingles.
A reliable roofing contractor at ReRoof America will assist you in determining which installation method is best for your home. We as a commercial roofing company will also advise you about whether or not a metal roof is a good fit for your home.