Let’s talk about the three metal roof installation mistakes you should NEVER make!
I’d like to assume replacing and putting up a new roof is something that is within most homeowner’s abilities.
And considering metal roofing is one of the easiest materials to work with, you wouldn’t mind installing it yourself —well, at least if you know what you’re doing.
Right?
And just like that, you might find yourself in a costly mess or disaster.
A lot of handymen have, often because they don’t watch out for these common pitfalls!
Let me show you:
The 3 Metal Roof Installation Mistakes You MUST not Make
I wish I had been more careful or known THESE things beforehand.
Upon my first trail, I ended up with a leaking roof that was slightly out of proportion. At the end of the day, I had to call in a contractor.
Paid thousands of dollars with an additional cost of materials to replace the mess I had created.
Well, I’ve learned my lessons along with many other handymen.
All what matters now is that you don’t make them.
1. Not Taking The Proper Measurements
Grossly miscalculating the size is one of the common metal roof installation mistake many overlook.
I know, I know, I know…
You may be expecting something more complex. But before booing me, you would be surprised how many contractors fall short of the rookie blunder.
A whole lot!
And I won’t be so quick to pin this only on amateurs. Even professionals can too, fall victim.
It could be a time pressure thing, faulty measuring tools, Lack of experience, misinterpretation of plans, or whatnot.
And since that is the foundation, inaccurate measurements will result in a costly headache that might bring you back to the drawing board.
So you want to measure twice and cut Once.
2. Misusing The Roof Fasteners
If there is one mistake you should NEVER make it is not fastening properly.
Your roof will bleed.
There are three killers: Overdriven screws, Under driven screws, and Screws installed at an angle.
Of course, driving in screws looks simple, but quite often it is done incorrectly.
So listen up!
What you want is a rubber washer with a metal cap.
This rubber washer is a bit smaller to the cap.
Tighten the washer so it spreads to the edge of the metal cap and it past it.
This one is crucial.
DON’T drive it too much.
Of course, it is natural to apply a bit of pressure to tighten the screw. However, if done too much, it will over compress and break the washer and warp the panels.
On the other hand, if under-tightened, water could slip through or the panels could flap in the wind.
How do you then strike a balance?
Here is a simple trick:
Use your index finger to try to spin the washer. If it spins either easily or rigidly, the screw is too loose. Re-tighten it a bit more.
Do the spin test and tighten again, if necessary.
Don’t get too carried away, or else the washer could break.
And lastly, install the screws straight and not sideways or tilted.
Sometimes the screws tilt as we fasten. It happens.
Unfortunately, this will not permit the rubber washer to seal correctly. So back the screw out and redo it.
Make sure you use the sufficient amount of fasteners as well.
3. Not Knowing Removing and Reworking Parts
Yes, it is doable, but only if it is an exposed fastener screw-down metal roof system.
Hidden metal fastener CAN’T be fixed. That is because, all the fasteners are underneath the metal roofing and can not be seen.
The only way forward is the entire metal roofing system will (in most case) come off and be replaced.
However, most people will still try to amend it. DO NOT make this silly mistake.
Not so long ago, we mentioned metals being one of the easiest installation materials to work with. Now you know how easily it could be as daunting as fixing a slate if you lack the proper skillset.
DIY Vs Calling A Professional, Which one is Better?
I’m assuming you know exactly what you are doing before taking on such a Highly advanced DIY job.
Else, why give it a second thought of calling a professional?
But nevertheless, deciding whether to do it yourself, calling a handyman or a professional comes down to one simple TRUTH: experience.
How experienced are you with mental roofing?
There is no denying that most handymen can patch up leaking roofs, replace damaged areas, clean the gutters and a bunch of other things.
But those are just minor domestic renovation.
Due to the complexities and potential hazards involved, metal roofing installation is a job best left to professionals with years of experience.
I know, I know, I know…
Doing it yourself will save thousands of dollar. But nothing compared to ruining the entire project trying to put aside some cash.
Don’t be penny wise pound foolish!
My advice?
Prioritize calling a licensed professional. You won’t regret it! Most companies will grant a warranty on their roofing material and whatnot.
Don’t get me wrong. If you know exactly what you are doing, please by all means.
You have my full support.
How Much Will A Professional Roofer Charge?
If you would like a contractor for the job, you would want to know how much they will charge right?
Unfortunately, I can’t give you a fixed amount, as the price could vary from roofer to roofer.
However, what I can do is give you a ball pack figure. The average Cost of a metal Roof installation is around $13,200.
The lowest you could pay is $8,500.
Mind you, there are copper roofing could cost up to $68,000 or even more, considering their unquestionable longevity.
And while these are just estimates, according to Forbes the ROOFING Material PRICE RANGE in 2024 (PER ROOFING SQUARE + LABOR) are:
- Steel $500 – $1,700
- Stainless steel $800 – $1,800
- Aluminum $800 – $1,800
- Tin $1,000 – $2,300
- Copper $2,000 – $4,000
- Zinc $1,600 – $2,500
Factor like your geographic location could also influence these prices. Also, they may be subject to change in the long run.
Conclusion
So what do you think?
Comment below what your thoughts are on these metal roof installation mistakes.
Will you be doing it yourself or calling a contractor?
I would also like to chip in how important maintenance are after installation.
Proper care can extend the lifespan of your roof and save you money on costly repairs sooner than expected.
So don’t sleep on this one.
Clean gutters and downspouts, check sealant from time to time, remove debris as they could trap moisture and cause rust.
Lastly, trim overhanging branches if need be —you don’t want your roof dirty all the time.