How to Lay Tin on a Roof

Wear protective eyewear and gloves at all times. Also wear a safety harness any time you are on the roof and attach the line to a secure point, per manufacturer’s instructions. Put a ladder solidly against the building.

Check the surface of the roof to make sure it is clear of debris and free of any protruding nails or screws. Remove or pound flat any that you find. If the roof has decking, sweep the surface clean.

Spread the insulation, starting with the edges and working toward the peak. Use insulation that is made for use with corrugated roofing. Put the vapor barrier side down. Hold it in place by pounding in roofing nails every 4 feet.

Place closure strips along the eaves, holding them in place with roofing nails. These will prevent anything from getting up under the roofing panels. Caulk along the upper edge of the strips.

Set the first panel in place, starting at one corner of the roof along the eaves. Fit the panel over the closure strips and screw it down tightly, using the roofing screws.

Add another panel, placing it next to the first one. Overlap the sides of the panels so no exposed seam exists between the panels. Caulk in between the two panels so that no moisture can get in. Repeat this process across the entire first row of panels.

Start the second row, moving up toward the eaves and laying this row above the panels in the first row. Overlap the bottom of the second row with the top of the first row, caulking well in between them. The overlap should be about 5 inches. Continue until the second row of panels is complete, and repeat the process for each subsequent row until you reach the peak of the roof.

Cut the panels to accommodate any vents or other protrusions on the roof. Place the panels so that the openings you’ve made fit around pipes or other items, and caulk well to seal the area. Place a rain collar over the opening to further seal out water.

Caulk the ridge of the roof and add a ridge panel. Screw it in place to complete the roof.