Understanding the challenges of installing a metal roof over shingles is crucial for homeowners considering this renovation strategy. Installing a metal roof atop existing asphalt shingles can be cost-effective initially, but it’s vital to recognize potential complications related to roofing materials.
Doing this action can be problematic sometimes. However, if you are ready for the risks, you should look for the anticipations immediately.
Benefits and Risks
While installing a metal roof over an existing roof offers initial savings, balancing the benefits with possible risks is important. Over time, problems such as corrosion or improper installation can lead to expensive repairs, particularly if bad roof practices are not corrected.
Therefore, finding a roofing contractor who can assess the project’s feasibility and ensure that the metal panels are compatible with your current roof system is crucial.
Common Problems with Metal Roof Over Shingles
So, what are the problems with metal roof over shingles? A few of them will be written below. It will allow you to understand the risk of covering the roof shingles with a metal material.
Read also: Metal Roofing Pros and Cons That You Should Know
Before doing so, make sure you have read the information below so you know exactly what to expect and what to do when the problem does happen. Here they are.
- Scratches
There are quite a lot of problems with a metal roof over shingles. However, you can tell that scratches are probably the most common ones. Yes, metal is quite prone to scratches. Debris, tree barks, falling stones, and many more can leave obvious and visible marks and scratches on the roof.
- Corrosion
There is no doubt that the most profound metal roof over shingles problem is corrosion. Metal, when a waterproof layer does not protect it or something like that, will most definitely rust and cause corrosion.
Moreover, it destroys the roof structure over time, making the roof prone to break apart and fall.
- Falling Clips
Clips or suspenders are needed to hold the metal roofing together. Over time, these clips can get loosened up. When it does happen, the metal roof will get lifted a bit and leave a gap between the shingles and the outer roof. It may cause leaks, and it is just not so pretty to look at.
- Loud Noise
One thing to understand about using a metal roof is that it does get loud when raining. When the rain hits the metal surface, the sound can be loud and bother most people under the roof. Many people despise being under a metal roof during heavy rain.
- Extra Heat
It is in its nature that metal absorbs heat. This is why you will feel that the temperature in a room or a house with a metal roof is higher. Use heat reduction layers or insulators under the metal roof if this matter bothers you.
Read also: Metal Roof Coating to Reduce Heat the Metal Roof
Considerations Before Installation
Before installing a metal roof to repair or upgrade shingles, it’s crucial to evaluate the existing roof’s structural integrity. Installing metal panels without verifying the underlying structure and ensuring proper underlayment can cause significant structural damage over time.
Consulting with a roofing repair expert and adhering to building codes ensures the roof is installed correctly.
Those are some of the most common problems that will most likely happen to a metal roof installed on top of existing shingles. Anticipate those problems by choosing the highest quality metal sheet or complete them with a heat insulator.
Remember that the roof is always one of the essential parts of the house exterior, and regular maintenance is key to addressing problems with metal roofs over shingles.
Homeowners should conduct periodic inspections to identify and rectify any issues early on. Properly maintained, a metal roof installed over shingles can offer long-term benefits, combining the durability of metal with the existing protection of shingles.
Moreover, installing a metal roof over shingles without careful consideration can create an uneven surface, compromising both the roof’s aesthetics and functionality. Homeowners should also be vigilant about future leaks by ensuring that all seams and edges are properly sealed.
