7 Mistakes To Avoid When Buying & Installing Metal Sheets: | CLEARVIEW Cladding Concepts

A metal roof is considered one of the best options among many others available. Though the upfront cost is higher than other traditional roofing methods like asphalt shingles, the advantage of installing metal roofing outweighs the cost factor. It has a much longer life span (40-70 years). In addition, they also help reduce heating and cooling costs, need low maintenance, and thus less spending on repairs. To get the maximum out of our metal roofing, we must avoid the following common mistakes when choosing a metal roofing product

Considering All Metal Roofings as the Same

A wide variety of metal roofing is available these days. The material is available in different metal types, finishes, thicknesses, shapes, designs, and profiles. Every type of metal roof can not be appropriate for all applications.

Many factors like roof style, size, the shape of the building, and the surrounding environment also affect the lifespan and performance of your roof. A DIY approach may result in procuring incorrect or inappropriate metal roofing panels. Therefore, it is essential that a professional may be consulted before finalizing the metal roof material.

Incorrect Measurements

Correct measurements are an essential part of a metal roofing project. The wrong measurement will lead to the procurement of the wrong-sized panel. Loss of money and delay in execution of the project. Using a roofing area calculator will be much help while measuring the dimensions.

Installing Fasteners Incorrectly

Proper installation of fasteners is of utmost importance. The improperly installed fasteners can lead to metal roof leaks. Therefore, the fasteners should be screwed in with very little resistance. In case of any obstruction, it should be cleared before proceeding further. It should be ensured that the washers are properly centered, and the gaskets are firmly compressed against the surface.

Oil Canning

Oil canning may be observed as waves or wrinkles in the flat area of metal roofing and siding panels. It is an innate characteristic of light gauge, cold-formed metal products. It is a moderate cosmetic deformation of the penal but does not affect the quality and strength of the product.

Thus, oil canning cannot be a ground for the rejection of metal penal. Instead, remedial measures should be taken to disguise the oil canning, such as using heavier gauge metal, lighter colored panels, matte finish instead of a glossy finish, panel width, panel type (Corrugated or Corten panels), and more.

Neglecting Underlayment

Underlayment is a roofing accessory that goes over the roof deck to provide an extra layer of shielding against condensation. Different types of underlayments are advisable for different types of metal roofs. Using a wrong underlayment or skipping it altogether should be avoided to minimize the likelihood of any damage occurring.

Using the Incorrect Sealant

Sealants are applied on vulnerable joints and screws to stop water or dirt from infilter inside the structure and cause leaks. Therefore, the sealant made specifically for metal roofing should only be used.

Not Attaching Roof Flashing Properly

Roof flashing is a thin angular layer of metal sheet that keeps water from entering the roof and causing water damage. If it is not attached properly, water can penetrate and cause a leak. Therefore, all areas where water can penetrate the roof, like skylights, chimneys, and ventilation ducts, should be secured by installing flashing around them.