Common DIY Metal Roofing Installation Mistakes

The installation of metal roofing can prove to be tricky at times, especially with the roof angles in modern home building design.  Often the roofing system is broken into several different levels and areas of the entire roof.  And, to top it off, the only job acceptable is one that makes the roofing panels as seamless as possible.  With all of the various components of the installation process, there are a few common mistakes that novice roofers tend to make like bad panel lapping, improper attachments, excess sealer etc.

 1.     Bad Panel Lapping
Panel lapping is the process of properly overlaying two metal panels over one another.  The correct way to lap metal roof panels is to place the bigger lip (wider lip) beneath the smaller lip (shorter lip) so that the smaller lip lies on top of the wider lip of the previous panel. 

 2.       Improper Attachments
In order to prevent future leaks the attachment of the metal panels needs to be done firmly enough to resist high winds, but also gently enough to prevent over-tightening of the screws.  You can detect over tightening by looking at the washer that is beneath the head of the screw.  If it appears squashed out or compressed and cracking, the screw head is exerting too much force on the washer and its water-proofing capabilities have been permanently compromised. 

Screws should always be laid down on the flat portion of the metal panels and directly in the middle of the panel.  Be sure to not under tighten the screws either.  Washers should be firmly pressed against the metal panel, not loose and free to rotate around the screw shaft. 

 3.       Excess Sealer
Contrary to popular belief using an extra thick layer of caulk will not keep water out of your home permanently.  In order to properly waterproof your roof, use caulk as a backup water barrier.  Your primary water barrier should be the metal panels.  Caulk, used properly as a backup water barrier is best used underneath panels, away from direct sunlight and harsh weather conditions. 

 4.       Failing to Meet the Roof’s Edge
Many inexperienced roofing contractors will either take metal panels either too short on the roof’s edge or allow them to overhang the roof edge too far.  The best practice methods are to accommodate 1.5 to 2 inch overhang. 

 5.       Bad Flashing
Flashing, the metal paneling around roof edges must be attached securely to the roof to prevent water leaks.  The areas on a roof most prone to leaks area near ventilation ducts or any areas where there is a penetration into the roof.

In order to get the flashing right around a roof vent, use caulk or sealer underneath the base of the boot that will eventually seal the flashing and the vent.  Be sure to use enough screws to properly secure the boot and flashing.  Too few screws will result in premature leaks. 

Schulte Roofing is an experienced college station roofer that has been installing metal panels for over 18 years in College Station, TX and surrounding areas. 

Why Use Copper in Roofing

Copper roofing has been around for hundreds of years, but lately homeowners are seeing this older roofing style make a re-emergence onto the market and in popular architecture and design styles.  Over time, copper roofing is actually one of the most cost effective roofing systems you can place over your home.  In addition to the cost savings, copper roofing offers home owners the ability to add additional design elements to an existing roof, help prevent algae and moss build-up, and value retention.

Long Lasting

Copper roofs when maintained properly last a long time.  In fact one of the oldest copper roofs in the United States is on Old Christ Church in Philadelphia.  Another example can be found in Europe the dome at the Pantheon in Rome.  The copper roof in the US has been in operation since 1742 while the dome at the Pantheon has lasted well over 1800 years.

Copper is also a naturally occurring metal which is a contributing factor in its ability to not rust or corrode.  Copper roofs also never require repainting or refinishing.

Value Retention

Copper roofing systems provide additional value, not in just home value, but also insurance savings.  Copper roofs typically have great fire resistance ratings which can help on your insurance premiums.  Additionally, the actual copper in the roofing system retains its original value more than other roofing materials.  In fact, the copper in a copper roofing system retains over 95% of its original value.

LEED certification is also a lot easier with copper roofing.  Up to 75% of the copper used in copper roofing systems contains recycled material.  Copper saves home owners even more because of its malleability.  Copper is easy to work with and can be molded and shaped easily and quickly during installation.

Prevent Algae and Moss Build-Up

Copper is deadly to algae and moss, which prevents stains and streaks, keeping your roof looking clean.  Copper’s atomic structure directly interferes with algae and moss’ ability to maintain a stable cell membrane.  Simply put, copper causes algae and moss to lyse and die off.

More Design Options

Copper takes on different appearances as it ages over time.  Variations in color like copper’s patina color grant designers and architects more design options.  Because copper’s color changes can be anticipated based on your environmental conditions, colors used on your home, architectural features installed, and even landscaping can be customized to match a cohesive scheme.

David Schulte is president of Schulte Roofing, a local roofing company with over 100 years of combined experience.  For more information about College Stationroofing companies that specialize in copper roofing, contact your local College Station roofer.