When managing your home, you might be interested in installing certain elements to benefit it. One of the reasonably popular ways homeowners improve their homes is by maintaining or replacing their roofs.
However, can you put a metal roof over shingles? In short, yes! There are solutions on how to install metal roofing over shingles. In this guide, we review what to consider when doing so.
When and Why Metal Roofs Are Installed Over Shingles
When considering metal roof installation over asphalt shingles, the primary reason for doing so is to preserve your roof and protect it against harsh outside elements. Usually, installing a metal roof over shingles will protect the roof from wear and tear. One of its beneficial factors is its energy efficiency, saving you up to 40% in energy costs.
The Advantages of Installing a Metal Roof Over Shingles
Before you learn how to install metal roofing over shingles, you should consider the metal roof over shingles problems and advantages. Aside from being energy efficient, there are a variety of advantages when it comes to installing a metal roof over shingles. If you are interested, we will go over several reasons why metal roof installation benefits your home.
Eco-Friendly
One of the primary benefits when installing a metal roof over shingles is that it’s eco-friendly. By installing a metal roof over shingles, you don’t have to throw them away. It keeps them protected and preserved, preventing potential damage that might significantly affect your roof. Another advantage is that most metal roofs are made from 40% recycled metal materials.
Longer Lifespan
Another primary advantage that metal roofs have is a longer lifespan. Due to being composed of recycled materials, it has a lifespan range of 40 to 50 years when installed. This way, you don’t have to worry about replacing it for a while. Though, it’s important to note that you should always install a metal roof when your asphalt shingles aren’t damaged but faded.
Cools Your House in Hot Weather
Another benefit of installing a metal roof over shingles is cooling your house during hot weather. When it’s sunny, it reflects and blocks heat from entering your home, keeping your interior cool. As a result, the cost of your cooling bills is significantly less than if you had a regular asphalt roof. You don’t have to worry about frequently using your A/C system.
Lightweight
Whether installing a metal roof over shingles by yourself or with a professional, metal roofs are primarily lightweight, so you don’t have to worry about the overall weight when installing. The average weight of a metal roof per square foot is 1.5 pounds, in contrast to asphalt shingles, that range between 2 to 3.5 pounds per square foot.
Durable
Not only are metal roofs easy to install because they are lightweight, but they can withstand outside elements. For instance, if it’s storming, it’s durable against hail, loose twigs, and other elements. It’s also fire-resistant and protected against rotting and termite damage. Though, they tend to attract moss which might require upkeep and removal every now and then.
Minimal Maintenance
In contrast to asphalt, tile, or other types of roofs, metal roofs don’t require frequent upkeep. Due to their longevity, they can withstand harsh weather or loose outside elements. Although periodically inspecting your roof is essential, you don’t have to worry about repairs, as most would with asphalt roof shingles.
Variety of Colors
If you want to customize your roof based on your home aesthetic, you will be happy to know that metal roofs come in various colors. You always have the opportunity to choose from a variety of colors, such as:
- Brown
- Bronze
- Tan
- Hemlock green
- Colonial red
- Patina green
- Teal
- And more
Problems of Choosing to Install a Metal Roof Over Shingles
Although there are advantages to incorporating this for your home’s exterior, you may encounter various metal roof over shingles problems. Below are some disadvantages when putting a metal roof over shingles.
Seam Failure if Not Installed Correctly
One of the metal roofs over shingles problems you might encounter is seam failure due to improper installation. Due to this, water can seep inside your home, causing water damage. Some houses have standing-steam metal roofing, which is installed with large metal sheets and sealed tightly with fasteners.
Noisy in Stormy Weather
When installing a metal roof over shingles, due to their material, it tends to be noisier than most roofs. When heavy storms occur, sometimes hail pieces, twigs, or other elements will fall onto the roof’s surface and, as a result, will increase the sound levels your roof makes.
Expensive Addition to Your Home
Although metal roofs have a longer lifespan than most roof types, they are more cost-effective for installation. They require minimal to no frequent upkeep, but because of that, other factors to consider when installing a metal roof over shingles would be slope and direction lines.
How to Install Metal Roofing Over Shingles
You can follow various steps when installing a metal roof over shingles. First, inspect your roof before installing it to ensure your asphalt shingles aren’t damaged. Next, you apply the underlayment to provide extra protection for waterproofing, preventing leaks from damaging the shingles. Finally, add the insulation and metal roof panels.
Upgrade Your Roofing With Metal Today
So, can you put a metal roof over shingles? The answer is yes. There are several benefits to incorporating this type of home improvement project: it’s eco-friendly, durable, has a longer lifespan, and is lightweight. This project requires professional assistance if you’re interested in installing metal roofing over shingles. Please contact us today.
