What Is The Installation Process Of Metal Roofing?

Tina Montone of ATAS Roofing Company says, "We offer free seminars to contractors January to May and from September to December. Usually the summer months are contractors' busiest months so they come in and they learn the basic installation of different types of metal roofing during the off months. We also offer installation guides for each of our products as well. The schedules for the seminars are on our website at www.atas.com. They are held at our facility, so you can take a tour through our manufacturing plant to see how the material is actually manufactured. The training is two days long and includes instruction in installing several types of metal roofing."

Since there are many different types of metal roofing, the installation guidelines can vary. However, most installations require the use of a standard hammer or nail gun, a tool to cut metal, measuring tape, an extension ladder, a chalk line, work gloves, and possibly a drill, screws, and clips depending on the fasteners required by your chosen materials. The most popular types of metal roofing include standing seam panels, flat lock panels, individual overlapping tiles, or panels that have the appearance of Spanish tiles. Metal roofing is also available in any number of colors through the use of paint. New ultraviolet protectors built into the paint help avoid the fading of colors over the years.

Metal roofing can often be installed over an existing roof, but if not the old shingles will need to be removed first. A pitch fork or roofing shovel can be used to easily remove asphalt shingles. Ventilation is also an important consideration when installing metal roofing. Without proper ventilation, condensation can form on the underside of the roofing material and cause rusting. Proper ventilation is also very important for your home's energy efficiency. Some people prefer to install a layer of insulation under metal roofing to reduce noise and for other factors.

Once your roof has been measured and prepared for the new installation, the first step will be to install the edging pieces. Then depending on the fastening method, the first panel will be attached. Some panels are designed to be attached to batten boards. Others are attached directly onto the plywood covering over the roof, and still others are lock together. It is important that the metal panels have room to expand and contract, and this is sometimes achieved through the use of special clips and fasteners. Each panel or shingle will be attached overlapping the previous until the peak of the roof is reached. Special pieces will be required to fit the ridge of the roof and complete the project.

It is imperative that the installer of metal roofing is careful with the potential sharp edges of the metal roofing panels and has been properly educated on the specific guidelines required for installing metal roofing. An improperly installed metal roof may pose water tightness issues, warping, and other problems.