Installing a metal roof on a shed is the perfect way to give it an updated look without having to do any major construction.
You can have this project done in less than a day, and you will only need basic tools for the job. If you are ready for this type of DIY project, then check out our guide below!
What is Metal Roofing?
Metal roofing is a type of roofing where the material is typically made from sheets of metal. A couple examples include:
- Aluminum, which comes in many different forms and shades – Metallic Grey / Light Brown
- Galvanized Steel – Silver/Gray/White (this may come prefinished or in bare metal)
- Zinc – Metallic Grey / Light Brown (like Aluminum, this may come prefinished or in bare metal)
When buying metal roofing, look for options that are at least 30-40% recycled material content. This will contribute to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
You should also seek high reflectivity rating (i.e. high albedo rating), and a product that is pre-coated with a factory applied protective finish.
This will increase the warranty period and provide better protection against elements such as UV rays, rain, snow, ice and blistering heat.
The longer your warranty period for metal roofing, the less you’ll have to worry about future maintenance costs.
Preparations for this type of project
- Get the proper materials and tools ready to start with the work
- Get a helper and make sure that you have enough time to do the job because it can take a whole day or longer if you want it to look right, weather permitting.
- Review all plans and safety precautions, whether installing alone or with a helper.
- Make sure that you properly clean out the area where you are going to install the roofing panels on your shed.
- If you find any nails or screws left in your building, remove them all. Also get rid of any wet paint and other substances that may be a problem later on.
- If you want to reuse the old roof, make sure that it is taken off properly and all nails and screws are removed so there will not be any problems when putting the new metal roofing panels on your shed.
Tools Needed to Install Metal Roofing on a Shed
The following tools are needed to install metal roofing on a shed:
- Hammer
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Tin snips
- Tape measure
- Chalk line
- Pencil
- Safety goggles.
Benefits of a Metal Roofing on a Shed
The following benefits of metal roofing on a shed are:
Durable – Metal roofs last longer than other types of roofs. This is because they can handle weather better than asphalt shingles.
Fire Resistance – Metal resists fire damage better than asphalt, wood or fiberglass shingles.
Energy Efficiency – Metal roofs are reflective, which increases the amount of heat that is reflected away from the building. This helps to save money on your energy bills by reducing cooling costs in summer and heating costs in winter.
Weight – The weight of metal roofs is greater than other types of roofing materials, which makes them a safer choice for sheds or garages.
Low Maintenance – Metal roofs are low maintenance, requiring less cleaning than other types of roofs. They also do not have to be replaced as often as asphalt, wood or fiberglass shingles.
Installing Metal Roofing on a Shed
First, you will need to make sure that the roof of your shed is flat.
If there are any slopes or valleys in the roofing material, then it might be a good idea to have those fixed before installing metal because it could lead to leaks over time.
Next, you should lay down underlayment on top of where the new metal roof will be.
You can buy this underlayment at any home improvement store, and you should choose the material that is best suited for your climate conditions.
This step might take a little bit of time because it does require laying down several layers to protect against leaks over time, especially if there are very heavy rains or other harsh weather elements in your area.
After that, you will need to lay down your metal roofing material on top of the underlayment and cut it into pieces before installing them with screws or nails.
The last step is going around each piece of metal with a rubber sealant in order to make sure there are no leaks over time from heavy rainfalls or other harsh weather elements.
Verdict
So, if you want to install metal roofing on a shed, make sure that you prepare the area properly and get all of your materials ready before starting.
You should also remember to buy underlayment for best results over time.
With these steps completed, now it is time to enjoy your new shed with its brand-new shiny metal roof.
