There are plenty of common mistakes you can make when installing a metal roof. Your first mistake might be thinking you can do it yourself. While you might be the most capable person on your block, installing a metal roof is far more complex than you might imagine.
Other common mistakes include being unprepared financially, hiring roofers without the proper qualifications, failing to consider materials and styles, ignoring minor repairs and damage, and failing to maintain your new metal roof.
Installing a metal roof is best done by qualified professionals; this is the best and wisest advice to reduce the risk for mistakes. But before you call in the experts to replace your roof, read up on these mistakes to see what you can do to prevent them.
In This Article
1. Doing It Yourself
Installing a metal roof is not the time to undertake a do-it-yourself, home project. Whether you’re replacing an asphalt shingle roof or an old metal roof, replacing your residential roof with metal is more complicated than just slapping on some sheets of metal and calling it a day.
Trained roofing installers know the job inside and out, and can professionally inspect, repair, and prep the work area. Plus, the right roofing professionals can help you decide on the correct materials for your home and needs.
When you choose Erie Home to install your metal roof, you’re getting decades of experience plus financing options, scheduling that works for you, no risk of personal injury, compliance with building codes, insurance, and warranties for materials and labor.
2. Being Financially Unprepared
If you aren’t considering your roof when planning your house budget, this could cost you more in the long run. A common mistake among homeowners is not thinking of the roof in the first place, let alone what to do if it needs replacing. Roof replacement is costly, whether you’re installing an asphalt shingle roof or a metal roof, and should be expected as part of owning a home.
Even the best roofs need replacing at some point. Asphalt shingle roofs typically last for 20 to 25 years, while metal roofs can last more than 50 years.
It makes sense to put aside money so when the time comes, it’ll be there. Develop a savings plan based on your roof’s expected lifespan. Alternatively, or in addition to saving, financing for a metal residential roof replacement is also a viable option.
3. Hiring Workers Without Qualifications
So you know you shouldn’t do it yourself, and it would be wise to call in the professionals. But how do you know who to call? Don’t make the mistake of hiring just anyone to do the job.
Hire the right roofing contractor for residential metal roof replacement so you don’t waste time or money with a lot of upkeep and maintenance—not to mention possible repairs from a poor installation job.
Look for qualified professionals who know the business, offer a free estimate, back their materials and workmanship with a warranty, and can walk you through the process from start to finish. Be sure to check out the contractor’s customer reviews to learn about other homeowners’ experiences with the company.
4. Failing to Consider Materials and Styles
There are a number of types of metal for various roofing styles. Metal roofs have a long life, and you want your house to have curb appeal. Invest in high-quality materials and select a design that’s best suited for your home and environment.
5. Ignoring Minor Repairs and Damage
A common mistake when installing a metal roof is not addressing underlying issues and not performing needed repairs before installation. Be sure to take care of existing roof or gutter concerns so they’re not hidden problems that become serious (and costly) emergencies later on.
6. Failing to Maintain Your New Roof
Once you have a metal roof installed, it would be a big mistake to not keep up with regular maintenance. Take care of your new roof with regular inspections and immediately fix any necessary repairs.
Final Thoughts
When all is said and done, the best way to avoid making a common mistake is to hire a professional. At Erie Home, we have over 40 years of experience in the roofing industry.
All our metal roofs are professionally installed and come with a 50-year, limited lifetime transferable warranty. If cost is a concern, we can even help with financing.
Call us today at 1-800-998-8301 or contact us for a free quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the two biggest concerns with a metal roof installation?
Typically the biggest concerns for a metal roof installation include the upfront costs and possible noise. Though the upfront cost of a new metal roof may be daunting, the long-term cost is less than other roofing materials. Certain metal roof installations use a sound barrier so there isn’t any extra noise.
What can fail on a metal roof?
A metal roof might fail if it is not installed properly. Make sure to contact qualified professionals to do the job right.
What do I need to know before installing a metal roof?
From the size of your roof to the type of metal and the design you want, there are a number of things to consider when installing a metal roof. Contact professional roofers to help put your mind at ease.
Do metal roofs leak more than shingles?
All roofs can be susceptible to leaking if the roof is old, damaged, or installed incorrectly.
Common causes of roof leaks include:
- cracked flashing
- broken or damaged shingles
- damaged roof vents or seals
- damaged chimneys
How many days does it take to install a metal roof?
When you purchase a new metal roof from Erie Home, the entire process is completed in as little as four weeks. Our experienced installers typically complete the roof installation in just one day.