Help for Putting on Metal Roofing

Tools

• To install a metal roof, you must have the proper tools and materials. Some of the tools you will need include a roofing hatchet, utility knife, hammer, measuring tape and marker. You are also going to need metal cutting snips to ensure the panels fit the roof parameters. In addition, it's important to have the necessary protective equipment, including eye wear, gloves and knee pads.

Preliminary Work

• Before you can begin laying metal roofing, you need to perform some preliminary work, including measuring the size of the roof and laying down an underlying material. Measuring the length and width of the roof will help determine how many metal roofing panels you'll need; you may want to purchase a little extra and cut off the excess material after installation. Tar, plastic or foam also needs to be laid and will act as a base for the metal roof. These materials prevent moisture from developing underneath the metal panels, allowing the wetness to evaporate.

The Perimeter

• Before installing the metal roofing panels, you'll need to lay down the perimeter. Run the metal trim along the edges of the roof and secure it using nails. Nails and appropriate fasteners can be secured every 6 to 12 inches. It's important to secure the edges so that rainwater will not run underneath.

Installing Metal Panels

• Installing the metal roofing panels is the final step in the process. Place the first sheet on the bottom corner of the roof and allow the metal to hang about two inches over the edge. Hammer the sheet in place about every two inches and continue this process until the entire roof is covered. Cut the edge pieces with the metal snips to ensure the material fits accordingly.