Can a Tin Roof Be Installed on a Shingle Roof?

Metal Roofing

• Tin roofing -- like tin foil -- is a bit of a misnomer. Modern metal roofing contains little or no tin at all. Roofing made from lead or copper has covered buildings the world over for many centuries. Well-maintained, centuries-old examples can be found on church and temple roofs in Europe and Asia. Tin roofing, made from steel and tin, became popular in North America around the turn of the 20th century. Modern metal roofing materials include steel and steel alloys, stainless steel, aluminum and copper.

Features

• When properly installed and maintained, a metal roof will last for many decades -- or even longer. Some metal roofing comes in small sections that are nailed to the roof, then soldered together for a watertight seal. Standing seam metal roofs are made of long, vertical panels that are attached to cleats and crimped together. Metal roofs can be made to fit any shape roof and are often found on domes, curved slopes and low-pitch roofs.

Substrate

• Any metal roof needs to be installed directly on the roof's sheathing. If you have shingles, your project will begin with removing them. Tar paper -- or roofing felt -- protects the house from rain during construction and allows the metal panels to expand and contract without wearing against the rough sheathing. Most metal roofing manufacturers recommend standard plywood roofing sheathing as a substrate for their products.

Considerations

• Metal roofing is not cheap. Standing seam and soldered installations are labor intensive. Copper and stainless steel -- the most durable modern materials -- are expensive. If you desire one of these roofs, look for a reputable roofing contractor who is experienced in traditional roofing methods and materials. Pre-formed, pre-painted aluminum or steel roofing mimics the look of a standing seam roof and is easier and less expensive to install.