Is it possible to install your own metal roof for your building? Yes! Is it easy? Definitely not. There are some thrilling DIY projects you can do, either to reduce construction costs or simply because you enjoy doing it, but bigger construction projects on your home, like installing a metal roof, come with a few risks. In these cases, it might be best to leave it up to the professionals. However, some people may choose to install a roof by themselves, and understanding what can go wrong may help you know what to avoid.
Trying to install your metal roof might be extremely difficult on your own, and it’s highly likely that you lack the relevant experience to get the job done right the first time. You might end up making a few costly mistakes and have to replace the roof altogether. In this article, we’ll show you some of the most common mistakes people make when trying to install their own metal roof.
1. Using the wrong panels
One of the most common mistakes DIY enthusiasts make when trying to install a metal roof by themselves is choosing the wrong material. The finished product may look good, but is it going to stand the test of time? The wrong materials mean you’ll be dealing with persistent leaks, faster wear and tear, inadequate weather protection and ineffective insulation, leading to terrible energy efficiency. In worst cases, choosing the wrong material could mean you’ll need to replace the entire roof, but it could also yield hazardous results.
2. Installing fasteners incorrectly
Another reason why DIYers might experience leaks in their roofs is because they’ve installed their fasteners incorrectly. Your fasteners should be screwed in with little resistance – they shouldn’t be too loose or too tight. When installing your metal roof, always check if the washer has been misplaced or is out of alignment with the fastener and if so, then it's been overtightened. Likewise, if the gasket is fully compressed, it's probably too loose.
3. Not sealing the roof properly
Installing a metal roof is a complicated affair, and requires you to do more than just simply laying your roof panels and fastening them down. An important step that you don’t want to risk messing up is sealing the roof as this is essential for keeping water and dirt out. Choose a sealant that’s able to expand with the metal without cracking and prevents exposing an area that could potentially become a leak.
4. Using the wrong measurements
Another very common mistake that people make when installing their own metal roof is taking incorrect measurements. Doing this can be a massive headache, especially if you’ve ordered roofing materials that are cut to the wrong measurements or if you haven’t ordered enough. To avoid this, triple-check your measurements and even consider getting a professional to assist you so that you don’t mess up your orders.
5. Using the wrong underlayment
Underlayment offers your roof an extra layer of protection against things like condensation, and it offers a bit of insulation for the house. We often see people installing their underlayment incorrectly or not all sometimes. As a result, leaks form, and some of the underlying structure of their roof gets damaged due to condensation build-up.
6. Doing the flashing incorrectly
Roof flashing is a thin metal material that helps divert water away from the roof’s joints – this includes areas like where the roof meets the chimney, skylight, or ventilation openings. When the flashing is done incorrectly, it allows moisture to creep into the roof and ceiling, which can build up and eventually develop into a leak in your home. To avoid this happening, make sure that you use the correct flashing. The area should be completely covered and sealed so water can flow over it.
7. Not getting hold of a professional
Many people attempt to install their roofs by themselves and then consult an expert, but often this is too late. Installing a metal roof is for the seasoned DIYer, not someone who is just starting out. Even with experience on your side, there’s a chance you could make a costly mistake that could cause you to spend twice the amount on buying new materials for the replacement that you would on hiring a professional.
Final Thoughts
We recommend that even if you’re set on installing a metal roof yourself, you consult an expert, like those at AMJ Metal Roofing, for advice before starting the project or working alongside a professional. They’ll be able to advise you on the best materials to use and how much you’ll need, and they will have all the knowledge and experience you need to get the job done properly the first time around.
