.jpg)
Table of Contents
Introduction to DIY Metal Roof
The structural integrity of your entire home greatly depends on the roofing system. A roof not only protects you against harsh weather conditions but determines the curb appeal of your home. Naturally, homeowners search for roofing materials that can last long.
Modern homeowners also consider the energy efficiency of a roofing system before making any investment. Metal roofs are gaining popularity as residential roofing systems as they can last for more than 50 years. Regular maintenance and quality installation can go a long way in increasing its lifespan.
If you are considering a metal roof for your home, you can make the most of your investment by hiring use for a quality installation. Any mistakes during the project can cost you money at the best and life at the worst. Here is everything you need to know about a DIY metal roof.
What Is a DIY Metal Roof?
As the name suggests, a DIY metal roof is installed by a homeowner instead of a metal roofing contractor. Several DIY-friendly metal roofing systems are available in the market but you should only choose to work with metal if you can handle it well.
As homeowners pay a steep price for purchasing metal panels, they want to reduce the overall cost by DIY installation. DIY metal roof installation has its fair share of risks (more on that a little later) but it is possible to pull off this project.
If you have got the right equipment and expertise, you can complete this project within a week. Start by lining up the tools and materials you will need. Don’t forget to include the safety gear in your list. Take accurate measurements before starting your project.
Once you have the metal panels of the right size, start joining them together. Secure each panel before proceeding to the next one using the best quality fasteners. If you are planning to add insulation over the roof, the task gets a little more challenging.
Top 8 Reasons To Avoid DIY Metal Roof Installation
While a DIY metal roof is possible, experts recommend against it for the following reasons.
1. Dangerous For Inexperienced Installer
The very nature of roof installation is dangerous and when you are dealing with metal panels, the risk multiplies. The panels are heavy and slippery. If the weather is rainy, the dangers of slip and fall accidents increase. Climbing on the rooftop and working there pose several risks. One bad move and you can slip off and injure yourself, especially if you are an inexperienced installer.
2. Puts Your Entire Investment At Risk
Even in ideal conditions, completing a DIY project is a huge challenge. If you make any mistake you are going to put the entire investment at risk. Instead of saving money, you end up wasting a lot of money. There are a variety of mistakes that DIY-errs can make and many of them may appear harmless at the start. After a spell of rain, the problems amplify rendering your entire investment useless.
3. Roof Leaks
If you were not successful in securing the metal seams, you are making the roof susceptible to issues such as roof leaks. A single leak can significantly reduce the lifespan of a metal roof. Moreover, no one wants to deal with the inconvenience and water damages associated with a leaky roof.
4. Use Of Low-Quality Products
In DIY metal roofs, there is always a risk of you using low-quality products. And your money-saving habits are not the only thing to blame. As an average homeowner generally ventures into the metal roofing world once in their lifetime, it is difficult to know what works and what can go wrong. Hiring a professional for metal roof installation is beneficial because they can get you the top-quality materials and that too at discount prices.
5. Poor Aesthetic Appeal
It is no secret that a roof significantly affects the curb appeal of your home. The aesthetics of your entire roof depend on this installation. DIY metal roof is risky because it can result in poor aesthetic appeal. Keep in mind that there is no room for error as it is visible on the top of your house. If selling your house is in your plans, you don’t want to dissuade away any potential buyers because of poor aesthetic appeals.
6. Energy Efficiency Is Compromised
Metal roofs recently gained popularity for residential buildings and this popularity mainly depends on their energy efficiency. When you choose to install a metal roof on your own and hence risk making any mistakes, you can compromise the energy efficiency of the entire system. Mistakes such as over-tightening the fasteners, loose or missing fasteners, and improper sealing can leave gaps in the system affecting the insulation.
7. Time Consuming
Professional installation takes a lot less time than a DIY metal roof. The reason is pretty obvious. The experts are trained and equipped with the best tools. They have got the experience to avoid the most common pitfalls. Whereas a DIY metal roof installer lacks industry-grade tools, experience, and confidence. All of these factors make DIY metal roofing a lot more time-consuming.
8. Puts Your House And Loved Ones At Risk
A metal roof is the first line of defense against weather, pests, fire, and moisture. If the system isn’t installed the way it should be, you are less likely to enjoy the benefits of a metal roofing system. That can also put you and your loved ones at risk.
Pros and Cons of DIY Metal Roof
Pros
- You may initially save a few hundred dollars otherwise spend on professional installation.
- You have better control over the size and pace of the project.
Cons
- Beware that fixing a poorly installed metal roof can be costlier than the professional installation. Thus, if you are planning to save money with DIY installation, the plan can backfire.
- Homeowners opt for metal roofing systems mainly because of their durability. DIY metal roof rarely lasts as long as a professionally installed system.
We, as one of the most dependable metal roof installation companies in your town, are here to help you!