Your roofing system is an integral part of your home’s structure, it provides security and protection against the elements and pests, while still adding to your home’s overall appeal. In Ontario, the number one residential roofing material is asphalt shingles. With a life expectancy of 20 – 25 years, chances are you will only need to deal with replacing your roofing a few times in your life. When it is time to replace your old roof, you should consider replacing it with a metal roof. Metal roofing systems are the second most popular roofing option for residential homes in Ontario and growing in popularity every year. For good reason, not only does a metal roof provide superior protection against the elements, it also adds character to your home, helping it stand out in your neighbourhood. Metal roofing also has a life expectancy of 50+ years, so it will save you money over time and it will save you the time and hassle of needing to replace your roof again.

If you have never been involved with a metal roof installation before, we share below an overview of the steps.

Measurements and Materials

Like any renovation project, accurate measurement of your roof is required to better know the quantity of materials needed to replace your roof. Some contractors are now able to virtually measure your roof using proprietary tools and apps. With measurements complete, the style and colour of your new metal roofing needs to be selected and ordered for your project.

Removal of the Old Roofing Materials

This step isn’t always necessary, as it is possible to install a new metal roof over an existing asphalt shingle roof, it all depends on the condition of the old roof. If your old roof is still in good condition, installing over the old roof saves both time and money as you won’t need to remove and dispose of the old shingles. However, if your shingles were rotting, waterlogged or if there was concern of water seeping under your old roofing material, it is best to have the old material removed to better inspect and repair your roof deck.

Underlayment and Edging

If your old roofing materials were removed, a new layer of underlayment will need to be installed on top of your roof deck. This provides additional protection to your roof as it is another moisture resistant barrier, under your metal roofing material. As well, the edging material (also known as the eaves flashing) will be installed. Its purpose is to block water from getting under your metal roofing material and to direct water that rolls off your roof away from your home and into the gutter.

Instillation of the Metal Roofing and Flashing

Your metal panels or sheets will be installed overlapping one another completing your main roofing surface. The finishing touches are added to the metal roof when the flashing is installed. The flashing covers any joints in your roof, where different sections meet. This helps to increase your roof’s lifespan by protecting it against any moisture sneaking in through a joint.

Final Inspection

After all excess materials and tools have been cleaned and cleared, the last step is to complete a final inspection. Ensuring the entire roof is covered with no gaps, all of the edges are smooth and that all of the pieces have been fastened down securely, nothing is loose.

Installing a metal roof is a great way to get the best value out of your roofing system and with a life expectancy of 50+ years, chances are it may be the last roof replacement you will ever need.

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