More Resources On Metal Roofing Installation
Screw placement for metal roofing and siding panels is easy. After you view the videos and diagrams in this article you will not have any issues. If you are learning about screw placement then the next steps is to learn more about fastening the metal sheeting and trim and flashing installation. An excellent starting point would be to view our installation guides or watch our installation videos.
The first piece of trim that will be installed on your metal roof is the eave trim.
We created an EASY step by step installation video to make your metal roofing installation as simple as possible.
Discover which type of fastener is right for your metal roof installation by reading:
Bend Trim Ends Closed
- Before you install the trim, cut and bend the leading end to wrap it around the corner. Make a series of one-inch cuts with aviation snips at each bend to create tabs. Fold the tabs in with a hand seamer to meet a wall or a corner, or to close a gap created by the trim. Each trim is a different shape, requiring unique cuts and bends.
Tip #: Consider Waterproofing And Roof Slope
The slope in your metal roofing determines a lot of other factors when it comes to the rest of your roof, including installation challenges.
Of course, slope isnt the only thing youll need to think about weatherproofing and waterproofing are two of the most important applications you need for metal roofing. Otherwise, youre going to be left with a very damp and uncomfortable home!
Steep slope metal roofing is inherently less likely to spring a leak, while low-slope or flat metal roofs will require your roof plumber in Melbourne to add extra waterproofing protection.
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Formula For Determining How Many Screws Will Be Needed
Here are two easy formulas for determining the amount of metal roofing screws:
Example: 3,000 square feet X 80% = 2,400 screws
Example: 30 roofing squares X 80 screws = 2,400 screws
Do Not Forget To Order Metal To Metal Screws For The Trim And Panel Sidelap
Example: 3,000 square feet divided by three = 1,000 then divide that by 1.5 = 667 screws
You dont need metal to metal screws for the sidelap if using Corrugated. You will only need sidelap screws for R Panel/PBR Panel and Western Rib/7.2 Panel.
What Are Roofing Purlins
The term purlin in steel constructions refers to roofing framing members that span parallel to the buildings eave, supporting the roof decking or sheeting. Walls and rafters, in turn, support the purlins.
So, never confuse purlins for rafters. Rafters are members of the roofing structure that run perpendicularly from the top of the walls to the roof ridge. Meanwhile, purlins run horizontal or parallel to the ridge.
Two rafters, each running from the opposite side of the house or room, typically meet at the apex of the room and are held together by ceiling joists or rafter ties, forming a basic truss.
You need at least two, one at each end, for a rectangular or square room, though many projects require several trusses to form the shape of the roof.
Then several purlins run across the rafters, holding them together and providing the surface for roof sheeting.
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Metal Roof Trims: Critical Pieces Metal Roofing Trim
Some pieces of metal roofing trim are more important than others. Eave trim, for example, is primarily decorative in function and can be forgone if the project allows it. Other components are not so easily dismissed and not including them could cause the roof to fail prematurely and/or water damage to occur on the roof and inside the building.
Anywhere there is a joint or where two pieces of paneling meet, youre going to need metal roofing trim. The pieces are:
Does Metal Roofing Need Underlayment
There are a lot of decisions to make while going through the process of having a new metal roof installed. What kind of panel are you going to use? What metal gauge are you going to use? What color roof are you going to choose? We understand that it can be overwhelming.
In the process of making all these decisions, one aspect of metal roofing that gets overlooked is using underlayment. Metal roof underlayment is an important component of a metal roofing system. Some might choose to skip using underlayment to save money. However, the metal roof underlayment acts as an added layer of protection. You can save money by using underlayment because it will help you avoid problems that would need to be fixed.
The short answer is yes, your metal roof does need underlayment . But like most things in life, it’s not quite that simple.
At Western States Metal Roofing , we have specialized in manufacturing metal roofing for over 20 years. From our extensive experience, we strongly recommend taking advantage of the benefits of underlayment even if it isn’t mandatory.
While most building codes require underlayment, there are some instances where underlayment may not be considered necessary.
We will discuss:
- Extra Protection
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Severe Hail Can Ruin Metal Roofing
Although metal roofs are considerably more durable and maintenance-free than asphalt shingles and other forms of roofing, they are not indestructible. There is one weather condition in particular that bodes ill for metal roofing: large hail. Aluminum and copper, in particular, can be susceptible to denting when hailstones approach golf-ball size.
Steel is harder and fares better in hailstorms, but if you live in a region where such catastrophic hail can occur, be aware of this when considering metal. Pea-sized or even dime-sized hail is rarely a problem, but hailstones larger than this have been known to ruin metal roofs.
Then again, large hail can also destroy an asphalt shingle roof, so if you make sure to have good homeowner’s insurance that covers such storm damage, there is no reason not to install metal roofing.
The Best Underlayment For Metal Roofs
The first goal of roofing underlayment is to keep the roof deck dry before installation of the metal roofing material. Underlayment must also act as a secondary weather barrier in case the roof fails. Traditionally, metal roofs have used standard 30-pound felt paper underlayment. However, contractors now recognize the benefits of synthetic underlayment for metal roofing, particularly when it comes to its tolerance to heat and ultraviolet radiation.
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Four: Install The First Metal Roof Panel
Once youre ready to start installing the metal panels, youll work from left to right. Start at the bottom of the roof. Use the chalk box to snap a vertical line ¼ from the roofs rake edge and square with the eave.
The rake edge is the part of the roof that sits above the house. It helps water flow off the roof and onto the ground without running down the side of your home.
Place the first panel into position on the bottom, left side of the roof. Overlap the roofs edge by one inch and work up toward the ridge. Use the 1 ½ galvanized metal screws to secure the panel to the decking. Place a screw about every 12 to 16 inches apart.
Electric Swivel Head Metal Shears
These are mostly going to be used to cut your panels to size and trim any edges to ensure you have a snug fit to your metal roof. The recommended metal shears are the DEWALT DW890 which are very powerful little tools. Incredibly versatile, they cut through metal like butter and provide accuracy. You will be able to change speed and adjust the type of cutting feature depending on the type of metal you are using the size and density. The DW890 is ideal for stainless steel of 20-Gauge and thinner but works well for any type of metal. You can add attachments for different types of jobs, including a drill attachment, which can come in handy.
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Whats The Role Of Roofing Purlins
Roofing purlins perform several roles on the roof, which explains why they are an ever-present feature in most roofs.
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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Remove Or Begin Placing Metal Roof Over Existing Roof
Most building codes only allow two layers of roofing, so if you plan on installing a metal roof on top of an existing roof, make sure to check the layers. Also, consult with a building inspector to be sure, as building codes can vary. If you plan on replacing your roof, start tearing it off. Check the weather before you start removing the roof. Youll need a day or two of clear weather to get the job done.
A Metal Roof Is Really A Better Choice
Shingles are still a popular choice for American residential roofs, but asphalt shingles are honestly far from the best material option available. Looking for a truly durable roof which really lasts, and should never need replacing during your lifetime? Think metal! Its amazingly durable, requires significantly less maintenance than shingles, and can last many times longer with a proper coating applied during metal roofing manufacturing. Plus, modern metal roofing looks great, provides a signature, soothing pitter-patter sound during a rainstorm, and is also better rated for handling wind and snow loads.
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Metal Roofs Are Not Just A Novelty
Once, metal roofing was found only on high-end, architect-designed homes. That’s no longer true. Metal roofing is found in conventional houses, thanks to increasing availability and improved manufacturing processes. According to industry statistics published in 2017, market share for metal roofing increased at a rate of roughly three percent each year for a few years and about 15 percent of all roofing installations used metal roofing materials. At the same time, the market share for asphalt shingle roofing fell, and accounted for about 59 percent of the total roofing installed.
Copper Roofing Pros & Cons
Considered to be the grandfather of metal roofing, copper roofs have been used for centuries around the world. Copper is an extremely long-lasting metal that in ideal environments, can last well over 200+ years. Copper roofs are 100% recyclable too, making them wonderful green roof options.
Copper is an extremely soft metal, which makes it among the quietest types of metal roofing. However, with modern installation practices, all metal roofing now recommends proper substrates and insulation that minimize noise from rain or hail at the same level. The softer nature of Copper Roofing also means that in hail prone regions, it may be easily damaged. As a softer metal, hailstones will easily dent the copper. While this lowers the aesthetic value, it also performs better than a harder metal that, with a large enough hailstone, will puncture rather than simply dent the roof.
If metal roofs are the SUVs of roofing, copper roofs are the Range Rovers of their class. This brings up an apparent downside to copper. Like the Range Rover, it is extremely expensive and depending on your needs, may be more than you need to get the job done. Another negative aspect of copper is its tendency to expand and contract with swings in temperatures. While this can be controlled with the proper panel or shingle, it does need to carefully be considered when choosing this metal.
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Types Of Metal Roofing
Before we get into the steps on how to install metal roofing its important to understand what types of metal roofs exist. While metal roofing can be made from a variety of metals, tin, zinc, steel, aluminum and copper are the most widely used and most commonly available options. Each metal has its own advantages and disadvantages, as well as cost considerations. Steel, for example, is the least expensive option while copper is the most expensive.
In addition to material choices, metal roofing is also available in three design styles: through-fastened panels , modular panels and standing-seam panels.
- Through-fastened corrugated metal panels are the most common and readily available type of metal roof. They can be installed over roof sheathing or purlins.
- Modular panels, which mimic other roofing materials like asphalt shingle and tile, are also available in a wide range of colors and styles. They, too, can be installed over solid sheathing or wood battens.
- Standing-seam panels install over solid or skip sheathing and have the most complex installation process, so are typically best left to professional roofing installers.
Five: Installing The Rest Of The First Column
With the first panel in place, youll start to install the next panels. Work your way up to the peak of the roof. Then, youll go back down to the bottom to start the next column.
Line up the second panel directly above the first, overlapping the edge about 12 inches. Secure the panel with the metal screws the same way you did the first panel.
Continue installing the panels in this way until you reach the top of the roof. Note: Use the metal snips to trim the final panel . Make sure to measure twice and cut once.
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Different Types Of Metal Roofs
Galvanized steel and corrugated galvanized iron are some of the popular materials used for metal roofing. Stainless steel is also preferred by users for its stain-free quality.
Aluminum roofs are also used for metal roofing, because of its lightweight and corrosion-resistant nature. Copper and stone-coated steel are also used as metal roof materials.
Copper roofs are popular among consumers for their durability.
How Far Apart Should Purlins Be For A Metal Roof
Purlins are critical when installing a metal roof. They add valuable support and improve building stability by distributing the weight of the roof decking. Purlins can also protect the roof decking from being blown away by strong winds.
However, to get maximum value from your purlins, you must select the right purlin material and style and install them correctly. So the big question is, how far apart should purlins be for a metal roof?
When positioned, the distance between one roof purlin to the next should be no more than 1.2 meters when using 0.7 mm-thick sheeting and 1.0 meters when using 0.5mm-thick sheeting. You should consider closer purlin spacing for greater roof strength if youre building in a location prone to heavy snow loads or high winds.
Read on to learn the different types of roofing purlins, what they do, and how to properly install and space your purlins for the highest impact.
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Corrugated Screw Location For Wall Panels Or Metal Siding
There will be five panel screws and one lap screw per screw line. The lap screw is the screw that sits in the high and it is designed for a light gauge metal to light gauge metal connection. Lap screws are spaced 12 to 18 on center. The panel screws are spaced out so that every third corrugation has a screw including both sides of the panel sidelap. When the corrugated sheeting is 39 wideinstead of 37 wide the screw placement will be slightly different as shown in the diagram below.
We recommend that you use double sided mastic tapeat the panel sidelap for a wall condition also. The mastic tape will make the panel more weathertight. Mastic tape is always used for a metal roofing installation. On a wall application, mastic tape is shown in our installation guide and we do recommend that its used. The reality is many installers choose not to install the mastic tape for wall conditions.
Favored By A Founding Father
In 1824, Thomas Jefferson replaced the original wood shingles on Monticellos roof with ones made of terne, a tin-coated iron they lasted until 1855. After a succession of inferior, leak-prone substitutes, the roof regained its 1824 look in 1992 with the installation of terne shingles made of tin-coated stainless steel.
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Metal Roofing Pros And Cons
Identifying the pros and cons of metal roofing for your specific application will, of course, include special challenges and considerations, unique to your home or building project. As a place to start, we invite you to use Benjamin Franklins famous Pros and Cons decision-making tool to help you choose your next roof. Heres a list… read more
Environmentally Friendlymade Of Recyclable Materials
Metal is both made of recycled materials and also built to be 100% recyclable. Many other roofing materials like asphalt or rubber end up in landfills after theyve been removed. Metal, however, not only lasts much longer, which means fewer tear-offs but the material can be melted down and reused for something else.
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