Getting started with metal roofing panels
1 of 1Metal roofing details
Metal roofing can be a DIY project if you’re comfortable working with metal.
Metal roofing systems that
you can install yourself are readily
available, but you need to
feel comfortable working with metal
(and you’ll pay a pretty steep price).
The only specialty tool you'll need is
a locking sheet metal tool (available at roofing suppliers or online).
Metal roofs are fire resistant (you
may earn a discount on your homeowner's
insurance), they look nice
(which can improve curb appeal),
and melting snow easily slides off
(which eliminates the extra weight
on the roof).
Edco (shown in the photo;
edcoproducts.com)
and Tamko (tamko.com) both
make interlocking metal roofing
panels that are installed with clips
and roofing nails. The systems have
specially designed starter strips, valleys,
gable trim flashing and flashing
for dormers, chimneys and skylights.
Each panel interlocks with
the underlying and adjacent panels
or with the flashing. Manufacturers
say the most common question
homeowners have concerns noise.
Don't worry; rain hitting the metal
roof won't be noticeably louder
than rain on an asphalt roof.
Metal roofs cost about $250 per square (1 square = 100 s.f.). If you do it yourself, the average
roof would cost about $4,000,
significantly less than hiring a contractor
to install three-tab shingles.
And while the price of materials is
six times as much as low-end three-tab
asphalt shingles (which start at
$35 to $40 per square), metal roofs
last 50 years or more, so you won't
have to worry about reroofing.
Metal roofs can be special ordered
in a variety of colors at lumberyards
and roof supply companies.
