Yes, you can install a metal roof over shingle roofing in certain cases using a technique known as "roof-over." This method is technically feasible and can be faster and more cost-effective than removing old shingles. It offers a less disruptive approach to upgrading your roof.
However, at Affordable Roofing Systems, we do not recommend this practice. We prioritize the long-term well-being and satisfaction of our clients and, after careful consideration, have chosen not to offer this service. Installing metal over shingles can lead to issues such as reduced roof life and potential moisture problems, which is why we advise against it to ensure optimal roof performance.
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Benefits of Installing Metal Roof over Shingles
Cost Efficiency
When considering a roof upgrade, it's useful to compare costs. While the initial metal roof cost comparison might show higher prices than asphalt shingles, the long-term savings are significant. Roofing contractors often point out that metal roofs save you money over time due to their low maintenance and extended lifespan. Despite a higher upfront pricing, metal roofs prove to be inexpensive in the long run. Additionally, many financing options are available, making metal roofing more accessible.
Durability and Longevity
One of the best features of metal roofs is their impressive durability and longevity. Unlike asphalt shingles, which may need replacement every 15-20 years, a well-installed metal roof can last for decades. The metal roof lifespan is typically 40-70 years, depending on the material. This remarkable metal roof durability comes with comprehensive metal roof warranties, ensuring you're covered for many years. Reliable roofing systems like these offer peace of mind and excellent value.
Energy Efficiency
Metal roofs are known for their superior energy efficiency. These roofs excel at reflecting solar heat, making them ideal for hot climates. By doing so, they reduce the need for air conditioning, thereby lowering energy bills. The metal roof insulation properties also help maintain a stable indoor temperature, further enhancing energy efficiency. Overall, installing a metal roof can significantly reduce your energy consumption and costs, making it an energy-efficient choice.
Environmental Impact
Opting for a metal roof has several environmental benefits. One primary advantage is its impact on landfills; unlike shingles, which frequently end up as waste, metal roofs are highly recyclable. This makes them sustainable and eco-friendly. Many metal roofs contain recycled materials, and at the end of their long life, they can be entirely recycled again, reducing waste. Additionally, choosing a metal roof supports efforts to reduce environmental impact and promote a greener future.
Choosing the Right Metal Roofing Material
Types of Metal Roofing Materials
When selecting a metal roofing material for your home, it's essential to understand the different types available. Here are some common options:
Standing Seam Metal Roof: Known for its clean, modern look, standing seam metal roofs feature vertical panels with raised seams.
Corrugated Metal Roofing: This type offers a wavy pattern and is often used for agricultural buildings but can be adapted for residential use.
Metal Roof Panels: Available in various metals such as aluminum, steel, and copper, these panels are versatile and can fit many styles and needs.
Metal Roof Systems: These include all components like fasteners and edges necessary for a complete installation.
Asphalt Shingles: While not technically metal, they often serve as a comparison point due to their popularity.
Each type of metal roof comes in an array of colors and styles, allowing you to choose one that matches your home's look.
Pros and Cons of Each Type
Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of each type of metal roof can help in making an informed decision.
Standing Seam Metal Roof
Pros:
Durable and long-lasting
Low maintenance
Modern aesthetic
Cons:
Higher upfront cost
Requires professional installation
Corrugated Metal Roofing
Pros:
Cost-effective
Easy to install
Long lifespan
Cons:
Limited aesthetic variety
Can be noisier during rain
Metal Roof Panels
Pros:
Versatile in style and color
Strong and durable
Energy-efficient
Cons:
Moderate to high cost depending on the metal type
May require specialized installation
Best Metal Roofing Material for Your Home
Selecting the best metal roofing material for your home involves several factors:
Durability: Metal roofs like standing seam and metal panels typically offer better durability compared to traditional asphalt shingles.
Cost: While metal roof installation costs can be higher upfront, their longevity and low maintenance can make them more cost-effective over time.
Lifespan: Metal roofs generally outlast asphalt shingles, with some lasting up to 50 years or more.
Aesthetics: The wide range of metal roof colors and styles allows you to choose a look that complements your home’s architecture.
Environmental Impact: Metal roofs are often made from recycled materials and are fully recyclable at the end of their lifespan, making them an environmentally friendly option.
By considering these aspects, you can determine the most suitable metal roofing material for your home. For professional guidance and quality materials, consult Affordable Roofing Systems to ensure you get the best advice and products tailored to your specific needs.
Preparing Your Shingle Roof for Metal Roofing
Necessary Inspections
Before changing from a shingle roof to a metal roof, conducting necessary inspections is key. Roofing contractors should carefully inspect the existing roof to spot any potential issues. This step is important to address leaks, structural damage, and other concerns that may affect the new roof. Ensuring the structural integrity of your current setup helps avoid future problems.
Repairing Damages before Installation
Repairing damages found during the inspection is crucial before installation. Addressing any weakened areas or compromised sections of the shingle roof ensures a solid foundation for the new metal roof. Necessary repairs must be completed to prevent future leaks and structural damage. By strengthening these areas, you protect the longevity and efficiency of your new roofing system.
Importance of Proper Underlayment
The importance of proper underlayment cannot be overstated when installing a metal roof over shingles. Underlayment acts as a moisture barrier and insulation layer, providing extra protection and safeguarding the roof structure. By using quality underlayment, you can extend the lifespan of the metal roof system, ensuring it works well against environmental elements. This extra layer of defense is key in maintaining the integrity of the metal roof over time.
Implementing these steps with the help of Affordable Roofing Systems will ensure a successful and durable transition from shingle to metal roofing.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you start installing a metal roof, gather all the necessary tools and materials:
Metal roof panels
Shingles
Residential metal roofing products
Metal roof fasteners
Metal roofing sealant
Metal roof flashing
Metal roof underlayment
Having these items ready ensures your project goes smoothly without unnecessary delays.
Preparing the Surface
Properly preparing the surface is key to a successful installation. Follow these steps:
Inspect the Shingle Roof: Check the existing shingle roof for any damages or areas needing repair.
Repair Damages: Fix any damaged shingles or underlying structures.
Prepare the Surface: Clean the roof thoroughly to remove debris and create a smooth base for the metal roofing.
Ensuring the roof is in good condition makes for a more effective installation of your new metal roof over shingles.
Installing the Metal Panels
With the surface ready, follow these steps to install the metal roof panels:
Lay the Underlayment: Install metal roof underlayment to add an extra layer of protection against moisture.
Position the Panels: Place the metal roof panels over the prepared shingles. Make sure each panel overlaps correctly.
Secure with Fasteners: Use metal roof fasteners to hold the panels firmly in place. Ensure all fasteners are tight to prevent leaks.
Install Flashing: Attach metal roof flashing around edges, vents, and other protrusions to stop water from getting in.
Seal Joints: Apply metal roofing sealant to all joints and seams to make the installation watertight.
Following these steps carefully will enhance the durability and longevity of your residential metal roofing system.
Maintenance Tips for Metal Roofs Over Shingles
Regular Inspection Guidelines
Regular inspections are key to keeping your metal roof in good shape. Follow these guidelines to spot potential issues early and avoid future leaks.
Inspect for Damage: Check your roof often for any visible damage, like dents, scratches, or punctures that might weaken the roof.
Check Flashings and Seals: Look at the flashings and seals around vents, chimneys, and skylights. Broken flashings can let water in and harm the roof.
Look for Loose or Missing Fasteners: Make sure there are no loose or missing fasteners. Missing fasteners can allow water to get in, causing leaks and rust.
Clear Debris: Remove leaves and branches from your roof. Debris can hold moisture against the metal, leading to rust over time.
Regular inspections will help you keep your metal roof strong and prevent expensive repairs.
Cleaning and Preventing Rust
Proper cleaning and rust prevention are crucial for metal roof maintenance. Use these strategies to avoid rust and keep your roof in top condition:
Regular Cleaning: Clean your metal roof at least twice a year with a mild detergent and water solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals that might damage the protective coating.
Debris Removal: Regularly clear leaves, branches, and dirt from your roof. Debris can trap moisture, promoting rust.
Apply Protective Coatings: Consider adding protective coatings. These give extra protection against rust and weather.
Use Rust Inhibitors: If you see rust spots, treat them right away with rust inhibitors. This prevents rust from spreading and causing more damage.
Ensure Proper Drainage: Make sure your roof has good drainage. Standing water is a major cause of rust and corrosion.
Following these tips will keep your metal roof looking great and functioning well for a long time.
Addressing Potential Issues Early
Spotting and fixing potential issues early is essential for roof maintenance. Quick repairs keep your roof healthy and prevent small problems from becoming big ones.
Early Detection: Regular inspections help you find small leaks, rust spots, and loose fasteners before they become bigger issues.
Timely Repairs: As soon as you notice a problem, fix it right away. Quick repairs stop further damage and save you money.
Monitor Vulnerable Areas: Watch out for joints, seams, and edges. These areas are more likely to get damaged and need regular checks.
Professional Assistance: For tough problems or serious damage, get professional help. Expert services can keep your roof in great condition.
Routine Maintenance: Set up a regular maintenance schedule to fix issues as they come up. This keeps your roof in good health over time.
Addressing potential issues early helps protect your investment and extends the life of your metal roof over shingles.
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Disadvantages of not completely removing existing shingles
Roof Inspection:
By not tearing off your old roof before installing the new one, your roofer won’t be able to conduct the proper inspection procedures to spot any kind of damage that may need to be repaired before installing the new roof. Apart from that, not removing the old roof can also prevent your roofers from installing a new ice and water shield, which are crucial in preventing leaks on your roof.
Installation Process:
Each roofing contractor may have their own methods for this type of installation. It's important to have open communication with your contractor and discuss any concerns you may have about their approach.
Underlayment and Furring Strips:
In some cases, a new underlayment may need to be installed before working on the metal roof. Furring strips are often used to secure the new roofing to the shingles. These additional layers can add weight to your roof, which may have implications for the overall structural integrity.
Edging and Finishing:
Proper edging must be installed to ensure seamless integration of the metal roof. This step helps in providing a finished look and protecting against water intrusion.
Removing the existing shingles and starting with a clean roof surface are generally recommended for optimal performance, durability, and warranty coverage.
To learn more about our recommended installation process for metal roofing, Contact Affordable Roofing Systems at (813) 542-8462.
In summary, it is not advisable to install a metal roof over existing asphalt shingles. It is important to consider the long-term impact on your roof's performance and warranty coverage before making a decision. Removing the old shingles and starting with a clean roof surface is generally the preferred approach for optimal results. Consulting with professionals and understanding the potential drawbacks of installing a metal roof over shingles is crucial to ensure the durability and integrity of your roof.
Contact Affordable Roofing at (813) 542 8462 for more information or a free estimate.
Is metal roofing worth the cost?
This really depends on how long-term you’re thinking. In the short term, shingle roofs are cheaper than metal. However, that changes as you consider longer periods of time.
Metal roofs will last much longer than shingles. That alone improves the value of the metal roof. The fewer replacements you make, the more it saves you. This also applies to the durability of your roof. You will save money on repairs with metal.
Additionally, metal roofing will save you money on cooling your home. It may not be much per year, but these things add up over time. Metal roofing costs vary, but choosing the right roof for your home can make all the difference in the long run.
If you aren’t planning on living in your house very long, then go with shingles. However, if you plan on living there for a long time, metal roofing will be the best choice you can make.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now that the general questions have been covered let’s go over the more specific ones that people frequently ask.
Can you install metal roofing over a shingle roof without furring strips?
It is not recommended to install metal roofing over shingles without furring strips. The thermal expansion and contraction of the metal will rub against the shingle granules and the metal will corrode from the underside. The gaps introduced by furring strips also allow air venting which can reduce moisture.
Can a metal roof go over 3 layers of shingles?
In most cases, code does not allow it.
Can you put metal roofing directly on plywood?
No. It is always best to put down an underlayment and a slip sheet before installing metal roofing on plywood. This extra barrier will protect the plywood from the metal roof.
Without the extra barrier, the wood can wear out. It will be more likely to leak as well as build up moisture on the metal roof.
How long will a 29-gauge metal roof last?
Since 29 gauge is on the thinner end of metal roofing you can expect it to wear out sooner than 24 or 26 gauge. Also the thinner the metal the more likely it will buckle with temperature changes.
