QA

How To Install Metal Roofing Over Shingles

Can you put metal roofing directly over shingles?

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.

What is the best way to install a metal roof over shingles?

The first is to apply an approved underlayment over the old shingles. This is the fastest way to install but it doesn’t provide the flattest surface for metal roofing installation. The second way is to install 1×4 purlins over the shingles. This is more expensive but will also be higher quality.

Can you install a metal roof over shingles without furring strips?

One option for installing a metal roof over shingles without furring strips is to use a cross-batten style. A cross-batten technique involves laying down vertical battens first. Next, the battens attach through the roof deck to your rafters. Finally, your horizontal battens are placed.

How do you vent a metal roof over shingles?

To vent the roof, holes are cut in the old roof (Detail 1) above the soffit, which pulls air through the soffit vents underneath. Cool outside air then travels under the shingles to the vented ridge (Detail 2), pulling out moisture and heat.

Do you need to put strapping under metal roofing?

Single wood strapping is better than no strapping, as it creates a wider gap between the existing roof decking and the metal roof, but doesn’t afford enough ventilation to resolve condensation issues. It also does not allow leveling of the roof, which corrects swells and swales on the roof.

Should shingles be removed before metal roof?

Considerations for Both Options. Your local roofing contractor may recommend tearing off your old shingles before installing a metal roof if any of the following conditions apply: Rough or uneven asphalt shingle roof will affect the metal roof’s appearance. The deck sheathing show signs of rot and would require repairs Nov 4, 2019.

What type of underlayment do you use on a metal roof?

The traditional and most common material used for roof underlayment on a steep-slope metal roof is non-perforated, asphalt-impregnated felt underlayment. There are several types of felt underlayment including both organic reinforced and inorganic reinforced.

Can I install a metal roof myself?

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.

Can you put underlayment on top of shingles?

If you are dealing with a decent number of cracked or damaged shingles, you will need an underlayment installed over the shingles. This can be identified and implemented via your roofing contractor during the roofing installation process. An underlayment is meant to go over existing shingles to give added protection.

Does a metal roof need furring strips?

When installing a metal roof over an existing roof, insulate the spaces between the wood strips with rigid insulation to prevent condensation before installing the roofing. You also need to add furring strips. Twenty-four inches is a common spacing of furring strips for a metal roof.

Do you need a ridge vent with a metal roof?

A metal roof is intrinsically durable and energy-efficient, but it needs proper ventilation to live up to its expectations. If the existing roof is properly vented, then a ridge vent is in order.

Can you put shingles over shingles?

You might be able to lay new shingles over existing shingles and avoid the cost of tear-off. If conditions are right, new shingles laid over old shingles can be just as attractive and durable as shingles laid on bare sheathing. But you must take care to install shingles correctly so they lie flat.

Does a metal roof need a vapor barrier?

Metal roofs and buildings require specific insulation and vapor barrier to meet the demands of condensation and breath-ability. Depending on whether your building is sheeted or not, or if you require insulation, we have it all, including the necessary tapes for installation.

Do you have to put plywood under metal roof?

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.

Do metal roofs leak more than shingles?

Do Metal Roofs Leak More Than Shingles? If installed incorrectly, metal roofs have the potential to leak more than shingles. However, if you find an experienced contractor who can install it correctly, metal roofs shed snow and ice to prevent moisture buildup.

How long does it take to put metal roof on?

Fortunately, installing metal roofs only takes 1 or 2 days to complete in perfect conditions, so you can enjoy the benefits of a metal roof quickly once you commit to your project.

How long should it take to put on a metal roof?

Installing a metal roof can take anywhere from a couple of days to over a week depending on the weather and size of roof. If you are installing a roof on a large home or commercial building, it could take up to seven to ten days or longer. Weather also plays a role and can affect your steel roof installation timeframe.