How to Replace a Shingle Roof With a Metal Roof?

If you’re thinking about upgrading your shingle roof to a metal roof, you’re in for a treat. Metal roofs are becoming increasingly popular due to their durability, energy efficiency, and sleek modern look. Whether you’re in Newmarket, Toronto, or Mississauga, this guide will walk you through the process of how to replace a shingle roof with a metal roof. Not only will you learn how to do it, but you’ll also discover why it might be the best decision you ever make for your home.

Why Switch from Shingles to Metal?

Before diving into the how-to, let’s talk about why you might want to make the switch. Shingle roofs have been a staple in roofing for decades, and they certainly have their merits. However, metal roofs offer several advantages that make them a compelling option for homeowners.

Longevity: Metal roofs can last 40 to 70 years, depending on the material. That’s significantly longer than the 20 to 25 years you might get from a shingle roof.

Durability: Metal roofs can withstand extreme weather conditions, including heavy snow, hail, and high winds. They are also resistant to fire, mildew, insects, and rot.

Energy Efficiency: Metal roofs reflect solar heat, which can reduce cooling costs by up to 25% during the summer.

Aesthetic Appeal: With a variety of styles, colors, and finishes, metal roofs can complement any home design, from traditional to modern.

Given these benefits, it’s no wonder homeowners in Newmarket, Toronto, and Mississauga are opting for metal roofing solutions.

Assess Your Current Roof

Before you start tearing off your old shingles, you need to assess the condition of your current roof. Is the decking (the layer beneath the shingles) in good shape? If not, you’ll need to replace it before installing the metal roof. This is also a good time to check for any structural issues that could affect the installation process. If you’re not comfortable climbing up on your roof or assessing its condition, consider hiring a professional roofing contractor from Newmarket, Toronto, or Mississauga to do it for you.

Gather Your Materials and Tools

Once you’ve determined that your roof is ready for a makeover, it’s time to gather your materials and tools. Here’s a basic list of what you’ll need:

Metal roofing panels (measure your roof to determine how much you need)
Metal roofing screws
Metal trim and flashing
Underlayment (such as roofing felt or synthetic underlayment)
Safety gear (harness, gloves, and safety glasses)
Ladder
Drill and drill bits
Tin snips or metal cutting tool
Roofing hammer
Chalk line

When purchasing your materials, be sure to choose high-quality products that are designed for the specific climate in your area. Metal roofing in Toronto, for example, should be able to withstand cold winters and hot summers, while roofing in Mississauga might require additional considerations for heavy snowfall.

Remove the Old Shingles

Now comes the fun part—tearing off the old shingles. This step can be labor-intensive, but it’s crucial for ensuring a smooth installation of your new metal roof.

Start at the top: Begin by removing the ridge caps, which are the shingles at the peak of the roof.

Work your way down: Using a roofing shovel or a pry bar, lift the shingles off the roof. Be careful not to damage the decking beneath.

Dispose of the shingles: Have a plan in place for disposing of the old shingles. You can rent a dumpster or hire a waste removal service.

Pro Tip: Some homeowners choose to install metal roofing directly over the old shingles to save time and money. While this is possible, it’s generally not recommended, as it can lead to uneven surfaces and potential moisture issues.

Install the Underlayment

With the shingles removed, it’s time to lay down the underlayment. This is a critical step in protecting your home from moisture and ensuring the longevity of your metal roof.

Roll out the underlayment: Starting at the bottom edge of the roof, roll out the underlayment horizontally. Make sure it overlaps the eaves by about an inch.

Secure it in place: Use roofing nails or staples to secure the underlayment to the decking. Be sure to smooth out any wrinkles as you go.

Overlap the layers: As you move up the roof, overlap each layer of underlayment by about 6 inches to ensure full coverage.

Pro Tip: For added protection, consider using a self-adhering underlayment in areas prone to ice dams, such as valleys and eaves.

Install the Metal Panels

Now that your roof is prepped and ready, it’s time to install the metal panels. This step requires precision and attention to detail, but with a little patience, you’ll have a roof that looks fantastic and performs even better.

Start at the eaves: Begin by installing the first metal panel at the eave of the roof. Make sure it overhangs the edge by about an inch.

Secure the panel: Use metal roofing screws to secure the panel to the decking. Be sure to place the screws in the flat part of the panel to avoid damaging the ridges.

Overlap the panels: As you add more panels, overlap them by one ridge to ensure a watertight seal.

Cut the panels as needed: Use tin snips or a metal cutting tool to cut the panels to fit around chimneys, vents, and other roof features.

Pro Tip: Metal panels can expand and contract with temperature changes, so avoid over-tightening the screws to allow for movement.

Install the Trim and Flashing

To give your new metal roof a polished, finished look, you’ll need to install trim and flashing. This step also plays a crucial role in preventing leaks.

Install the drip edge: Start by installing a drip edge along the eaves and rake edges of the roof. This helps direct water away from the fascia and into the gutters.

Add the ridge cap: Once all the metal panels are in place, install the ridge cap along the peak of the roof. This covers the gap between the panels on either side of the roof.

Seal the edges: Use flashing to seal the edges of the roof where it meets walls, chimneys, and vents.

Pro Tip: Use silicone caulk to seal any gaps around the flashing for added protection against water infiltration.

Inspect and Maintain Your New Roof

Congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced your shingle roof with a metal roof. Before you pack up your tools, take some time to inspect your work. Look for any loose screws, gaps in the flashing, or other potential issues.

Regular maintenance will help keep your metal roof in top condition for years to come. Here are a few tips:

Clean the gutters: Regularly clean your gutters to prevent debris buildup that can lead to water damage.
Check for damage: After severe weather, inspect your roof for any signs of damage, such as dents or loose panels.
Schedule professional inspections: Even if you’re handy, it’s a good idea to have a professional roofing contractor from Newmarket, Toronto, or Mississauga inspect your roof every few years.

Why Choose a Professional Roofing Contractor?

While replacing a shingle roof with a metal roof can be a rewarding DIY project, it’s not for everyone. If you’re not comfortable working at heights, don’t have the necessary tools, or simply want the peace of mind that comes with professional installation, consider hiring a roofing contractor. Roofing companies in Newmarket, Toronto, and Mississauga have the experience and expertise to get the job done right. They can handle everything from assessing your current roof to installing your new metal roof with precision and care. Plus, a professional installation often comes with a warranty, giving you added protection and peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

Replacing your shingle roof with a metal roof is a significant investment in your home’s future. With its durability, energy efficiency, and modern aesthetic, a metal roof can enhance your home’s value and curb appeal for decades to come. Whether you’re tackling this project on your own or hiring a professional, the key is to plan carefully, choose high-quality materials, and pay attention to the details. And remember, if you ever need expert advice or assistance, there’s always a trusted roofing contractor in Newmarket, Toronto, or Mississauga ready to help. So, are you ready to make the switch to a metal roof? Your home—and your wallet—will thank you in the long run!

Upgrade your home with the strength and style of a metal roof by trusting DVR Roofing’s expert team. With top-notch craftsmanship and years of experience in Newmarket, Toronto, and Mississauga, we ensure your roof stands the test of time. Contact DVR Roofing today and transform your roof into a durable, energy-efficient masterpiece.

Are you looking for professional roofing services? Check out the areas that DVR Roofing serves below:
Newmarket Roofing

Roofing Toronto

Roofing Mississauga