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Can You Use Metal Roofing On A Flat Roof

Tired Of Cleaning Your Gutters

Can You Install Metal on a Flat Roof? ROOFING QUICK TIPS

Each year homeowners spend a great deal of time and money cleaning out their gutters. Depending upon your leaf protection needs, Distinctive Metal Roofing offers several gutter guard options that virtually eliminate the annual task of cleaning debris and clogged gutters. Each system allows rainwater from your roof to drain through, but not much else. Leaves, twigs and debris will fall to the ground or settle on top while water continues to flow through. Air circulation from above and below allows any leaves and debris that remains on the surface to dry up and blow off.

Benefits And Uses And Drawbacks

A flat roof is the most cost-efficient roof shape as all room space can be used fully . Having a smaller surface area, flat roofs require less material and are usually stronger than pitched roofs. This style roof also provides ample space for solar panels or outdoor recreational use such as roof gardens. Applying a tough waterproofing membrane forms the ideal substrate for green roof planting schemes.

Where gable roofs are uncommon or space is limited, flat roofs may be used as living spaces, with sheltered kitchens, bathrooms, living and sleeping areas. In third world countries, such roof tops are commonly used as areas to dry laundry, for storage, and even as a place to raise livestock. Other uses include pigeon coops, helipads, sports areas , and restaurants outdoor seating.

While flat roofs are usually designed to shed water, they may still be prone to water ponding, such as from snowmelt. Flat roofs are also more prone to uplift from high winds than are hip or mansard roofs.

Advantages Of A Flat Roof For Your New Metal Roof Installation

Whether youre planning for a home renovation or is in the process of building your house, flat roofs are increasingly popular among homeowners and builders.

Well let you in on a bit of a secret: this type of roof only works with metal.

Thats because tiles leave small gaps between, which water can get into. This isnt an issue with sloped roofs, as the roof angle means that the only way for water to get in is if it defies gravity and moves upwards.

In short, its close to impossible.

When the roof is flat however, water now has a way in. As weve talked about before, this can lead to a host of problems.

Metal roofing, on the other hand comes with no such limitation, as metal roofing panels are joined in a way that effectively makes them watertight.

What advantages does this offer?

Also Check: How Long Does A New Roof Usually Last

What Are The Many Benefits Of Metal Roofing

Metal roofs are one of the strongest, most durable, and longest-lasting roofing materials you can use for both residential and commercial roofing. They have many benefits that put them leaps and bounds beyond any other roofing material. Aside from slate and clay, metal roofs can last for a long time without the hefty price tag, thus, are a growing choice for homeowners, today. Benefits of a metal roof include:

Resistance To Moss And Algae Growth

Steel, Butynol, Zinc or Copper

Asphalt and wood shingles often have a lesser life expectancy, and one of the reasons for this is their susceptibility to moss, mildew, and algae growth. Metal not only is resistant to this fungal growth but is also impervious to rodents and other pests that might be able to chew through other roofing types.

Also Check: How To Tell A Roof Needs Replacing

Why Distinctive Metal Roofing For Gutters

Rainwater is a natural element that can wreak havoc on a house if its not controlled by a properly installed gutter system. We form and install your seamless aluminum gutters on-site to provide a custom fit to your homes needs. Our seamless metal roof gutters and downspouts are properly sloped to prevent the holding of standing water and securely fastened to the fascia with the best hanging systems available in the market. Our extensive experience with the installation of metal roofing also positions us as experts in providing quality leaf management systems and gutters for metal roofs.

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Gutters On Building With Metal Roof

I am planning on having a standing seam metal roof installed on a summer house in Maine this spring. The roof has an 11/12 pitch and has had asphalt shingles. I was planning on replacing the gutters which help greatly with shedding the water away from the entrance as well as the rest of the building which is built on stacked stones and posts.

My builder told me that most people do not use gutters with a metal roof because when the snow slides off the roof, it will take the gutters with it.

Do you have any knowledge or experience with this situation? Is there a solution that anyone can recommend?

Thanks, Allen

  • |#1

    Townsend.

    Its mainly a factor of the strength of the gutter system..Few gutters will have thwe strength required to withstand the ineveitable snow slides.. Classic gutters on the other hand can sell you gutters that A fat 285 pound guy can do chin ups on but the price will shock you.

  • |#4

    If youre trying to keep water away from the entrance you dont want 500 pounds of snow sliding down on someone either. Gizmos should be installed to keep the snow from sliding off.

    What is wanted is not the will to believe, but the will to find out, which is the exact opposite. Bertrand Russell

  • |#5

    Dan,

    That makes sense, but we are not there when the snow is. We come back in the spring when the snow is gone. It is a summer place.

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    How To Install A Diy Metal Roof

    Now the fun parthow to install a metal roof from beginning to end. Now, although you can technically DIY your metal roof, this type of roofing requires some experience that many homeowners may not have. Therefore, never attempt to install your own roof without some semblance of knowledge and the right crew to help. When in doubt, always hire a professional to get the job done. That being said, here are the steps to install your new metal roof.

    Should I Remove Shingles Before Metal Roof

    EBP Metal Roofing – Garage Flat Roof

    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 roofs appearance. Nails and screws for the metal roof wont reach far enough into the layers of existing roofing.

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    Is The Company Licensed

    When looking for doctors to treat your ailment, there is a high chance that youll be on the lookout for top doctors who are specialists in the area of your interest. The same rule should apply to your search for a roofer. Look for a roofer that has a license to practice in your state. Also, make sure that the roofer is registered with the local roofers association.

    What Is Torch Down Roll Roofing

    The torch down roof is still the most commonly used roofing material for flat commercial roofs. This type of roofing is known as modified bitumen roofing. This product is made up of a tough waterproof roof membrane embedded in a thick layer of asphalt and is rolled. What is torch down roll roofing? In essence, torch down roofing is simply the use of an open flame propane torch to heat a roof. A roofing professional applies modified bitumen to the roof by rolling it out and using a propane torch to heat it and adhere it to the surface. What are the different rolls of roofing? The roll roofing is 100 square feet in size. There are numerous home improvement stores that sell rolled roofing. Roof rolls from MSR typically stand 36 feet by 36 inches in length and width.

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    Can You Install A Metal Roof On A Flat Roof

    A flat or low slope roof requires different roofing materials than a standard pitched roof. Most homeowners go with a membrane roof system for their flat roof or flat roof area.

    But some want a roofing material with more curb appeal and a longer lifespan. This leads homeowners wondering if they can use metal roofing instead of a membrane roof system.

    But can you install a metal roof on a flat roof?

    For over 30 years, the team at Bill Ragan Roofing has helped homeowners find the right roofing material for their situation. Now I want to do the same for you and your flat roof.

    In this video, you’ll learn if you can install a metal roof on a flat roof. You’ll also learn how much it’ll cost to get a metal roof.

    After watching, don’t forget to check out How to Hire a Good Roofing Contractor to find a great roofer for your flat roofing project.

    Ridge Vents Are More Obvious

    Can you Coat a Metal Roof?

    On most homes today, attic venting is provided by a continuous ridge vent that runs across the peak of the roof. On a shingled roof, this continuous ridge vent is a strip of shingle-like material that runs the entire length of the peak of the house, masking outflow holes on the sides of the ridge. You likely have seen this countless times, but probably never really noticed because the CRV usually lies very flat and blends in perfectly with the surrounding roof.

    On many metal roofs, especially standing-seam roofs, the CRV is also metal, and it stands out further and is thus much more noticeable. These thick, prominent lines or ridges are inherent in metal roofs and add to their distinctive look.

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    Is Osb Acceptable As Roof Decking For Metal Roofing

    Oriented Strand Board, commonly referred to as OSB, is a type of engineered lumber similar to particle board, formed by adding adhesives and then compressing layers of wood strands. OSB is widely used as roof decking material.

    A homeowner recently wrote and asked me the following regarding OSB roof decking:

    Q. We are checking into a metal roof and we have a question that needs to be clarified. We heard that the metal will not stay on as well if you have OSB roof decking. Should it be a different type of wood? Is that true? We have also been told it will be okay. Just wanted some clarification.

    Following is my response:

    A. OSB in good condition will have every similar fastener pull-out resistance to CDX plywood. The problem, though, is that OSB tends to deteriorate fairly rapidly if exposed to moisture, losing fastener pull-out resistance.

    So, what would expose it to moisture? Roof leaks, of course but also improper attic ventilation can cause condensation in the roof deck that can cause the OSB to weaken.

    One option is to try some test fasteners in the OSB. If you get 45 or more pounds of pull out resistance, thats considered acceptable for most applications. If you have less than that or a lack of ventilation that threatens ongoing performance, Id replace the decking.

    All this said always adhere to what your roofing manufacturer says. Do not do anything that might later void the wind warranty they offer.

    Types Of Metal Roofing Available

    There are a few types of metal roofing available on the market today. Its come a long way since just large metal panels were being used for pole barns or lean-tos. Metal roofing shingles today can nearly imitate asphalt or slate shingles, but with the benefits of metal.

    Also, the type of materials used to manufacture metal roofs vary and are most commonly tin, zinc, steel, aluminum, and copper. There are four main types of metal roofs: metal shingles, through-fastened or corrugated panels, modular panels, and standing-seam panels.

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    Professional Flat Roofing In The Anderson Area

    Despite their name, flat roof systems arent perfectly flat. Instead, they have a very gentle slope, dropping anywhere from about 1/4 to 1/2 per foot to encourage water to drain. Compared to roofs with a steeper pitch, however, water and snow remain on the surface of a flat roof a lot longer.

    Most traditional sloped roofs are covered with shingles. Each row of shingles overlaps the one below it, much like the scales on a fish. When rainwater falls onto the surface, it runs down over them.

    On the other hand, to prevent water damage, flat roofs are constructed out of special materials that are designed to keep water from entering the structure. They consist of an unbroken surface that is capable of resisting standing water for at least a short period.

    Contact Anderson Metal Roofing & Shingles today, and we’ll help you figure out the next steps in your roofing replacement or repair process.

    Metal Panels: Can They Be Used On Flat Roofs

    How is Metal Used in Flat Roofing Conditions?

    October 9, 2019 by Derrell Wood

    Low-slope roofs are vulnerable to UV and moisture damage, which is why picking the right roofing material is important. One of the most cost-effective and durable materials on the market is metal, but is it suitable for low-slope roofs? The short answer is yes, provided its a specific kind. Woods Roofing, a top roofing company in the state, elaborates further below.

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    Can You Put A Metal Roof On Your Flat Roof

    Yes, you can put metal on your flat roof. Installing a metal roof over a flat roof area, over a porch, or for other accent purposes is considered an upgrade.

    With that in mind, its actually fairly common for homeowners to put a metal roof over their flat roof or low slope roof. Everyone has their own reasoning for using metal on their flat roof.

    Some homeowners want metal roofing for its lifespan and durability. Other homeowners like the look of metal and want to boost their homes curb appeal.

    Some even want to use metal on their flat roof for both reasons. Whatever your reasoning, installing a metal roof on your flat is always a great option.

    Just keep in mind, it will be more expensive than a membrane roof system that is also commonly used on flat roofs.

    Flat Roof Installation Throughout Chicago

    Flat Roof Inc. serves customers throughout Chicago. Whether you’re on the north side, south side, or anywhere in between, our skilled roofers and our focus on flat roofs will ensure your job gets completed on-time and within budget.

    At Flat Roof Inc., we have a dedication to professionalism and quality workmanship. Our employees have completed formal training programs and are certified roofing installers with many manufacturers and flat roofing products.

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    Chicago Sheet Metal Roofing Company

    The longest-lasting, most durable, and lowest maintenance roofing option is sheet metal roofing. Metal roofing is typically recommended for buildings with a slope greater than 2 inches. Although metal has by far the longest lifespan of the different flat roofing materials, it is also the most expensive solution. The reason for the expense has mostly to due with the installation expertise that is demanded and the nature of the material.

    While metal roofs are certainly strong and durable, they also reflect solar heat, which can reduce cooling costs by 10-25%. Metal roofs are also environmentally friendly as theyre made with 25-95% recycled materials. Rather than going to the dump at the end of their life, they can be recycled. Metal roofing offers an attractive, sleek look thats ideal for our harsh Chicago climate. Sheet Metal roofs come in a wide variety of colors and finishes, and unlike traditional roofs, they will outlast any other roofing material.

    Interested in a Sheet Metal roof for your Chicago area flat roof? Contact us today for a free, no-obligation estimate and we will send our flat roof experts to help you choose the best product for your structure.

    Can Metal Roofing Be Used On Flat Roofs Answer Here 2022

    Know all about Standing seam metal roof

    Metal roofings are low-maintenance, cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and even recyclable. So, there may be a question that arises: can metal roofing be used on flat roofs. Well, if this is the question, youre on the right track.

    Well, metal roofing is not a good choice for flat roofs but, you can use metal roofing on flat roofs. You have to be careful about choosing the configuration of roofings.

    If you want to use metal roofing on your flat roofs, just read the rest of the part.

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    Can You Put A Metal Roof On A Low Pitch Roof

    Yes, you can use metal roofing for low-pitched roofing. In fact, many contractors recommend that asphalt shingle roofs go no lower than 4:12 slopes, which doesnt leave you with too many options if your roof slope is any shallower than that.

    Luckily, metal roof works extremely well in low slope applications. The most common type of metal roofing, and the cheapest, is a typical corrugated roofing with exposed fasteners. Metal panels overlap and the screws are placed through the laps to hold the sections together on the roof.

    Some homeowners may cringe at the thought of exposed fasteners putting thousands of holes literally into your expensive roofing material, especially on a low slope. However, this type of roofing has been working for decades as leak-proof as shingle roofing and much more durable.

    That standard type of metal roofing can go only slightly lower than a shingle roof, as the max depth for corrugated metal roofing sheets without sealant is 3:12. However, you can go lower without compromising your structure using metal roofing with sealant and other products, such as standing-seam click-lock panels.

    Whichever product you choose, you are getting a metal roof that performs the same or better than a shingle roof. For low slope applications, your options for roofing materials are limited, and choosing a metal roofing product for these types of scenarios is a long-term, cost-effective choice.

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