Guide to a Successful Residential Metal Roofing Project

Any contractor wanting to expand their services should consider what they could bring regarding residential roofing. If you want to expand your services in the residential sector, providing metal roofing services will set you apart from the competition and create a strong foundation for your business. In this guide, we want to cover everything you need to know about residential metal roofing so you can set yourself up for success. 

Be Successful in Residential Roofing

Finding success in the residential metal roofing industry depends on your ability to install a long-lasting roof. The materials you use and the installation method combine to make or break your roofing system. Ultimately, you want to deliver on your promise of a long-lasting metal roof and see a return on your and your client's investment.

However, cutting corners in the installation process can cause cracks that result in leaks or a roof that may not hold up during harsh weather conditions. Eliminate the risk by ensuring every step of the installation process is completed correctly and by using high-quality materials from trusted metal roofing suppliers. 

Guide to Metal Roofing

Not all metals are the same, and with metal roofing, you must know the differences. Each type of metal will have varying levels of quality and performance. Steel is the most popular metal in residential roofing, but aluminum, copper, terne, and zinc can also be used. Galvanized steel adds a layer of zinc to protect the material and prevent it from rusting. The zinc helps prolong the metal roof’s lifespan by acting as a protective covering. 

Installation Techniques For Successful Projects 

When you install a residential metal roof, you will either be adding a new roof to a brand-new structure, tearing down an old roof and installing a new one, or applying a new roofing structure directly over the pre-existing roof. When you install a new roof over an old one, you need to factor in the overall weight of the roofing system. Some structures may not be able to hold that much weight, so it is important to determine if installing a roof over the old one is the best choice. You do not want to compromise the structure's integrity or the roof decking. 

Adding proper ventilation to a metal roof is essential to the installation process. Home attics can trap hot summer heat, and if it is not properly ventilated, it can result in mold and rot. Good ventilation is crucial for a durable metal roof because it minimizes the risk of costly damage to other home parts. Plus, if the hot air cannot escape the attic, it will be under the roofing panels. When this happens, it will gather under the panels and condense at night as the outside temperature cools. When the attic is adequately ventilated, it will eliminate unnecessary condensation. 

We cannot stress enough the importance of proper installation techniques. Without an accurate installation, the roof will not be successful. When a mistake is made, it can have costly effects. The preparation stage of the process is just as important as the installation. Taking incorrect measurements or making inaccurate cuts can derail the whole process by pushing back your timeline and creating extra costs. Roof fasteners will cause cracks, leaks, and oil canning when installed incorrectly. Ensuring your fasteners are the perfect tightness is crucial to a damage-free roof. 

Know The Product You Offer

Understanding the product and service you offer is key for any business. With metal roofing, it is more than just attaching the panel to the structure. There are multiple profiles and styles to choose.

Standing seam metal roofs are one of the most popular options and are installed by interlocking panels with vertical legs. It gives homeowners the best of both worlds.

Choosing the right metal panel for your customer’s needs is crucial. Our roofs have plenty of curb appeal, and at Delta Metals, we offer over 40 color options. Metal roofs are extremely durable and require minimal maintenance. These factors are some of the most appealing elements to homeowners. Metal roofing can also last an average of 50 years when the installation is completed correctly. 

Building Codes and Regulations

A roof’s pitch, and other aspects of the installation, can be determined by important building codes and regulations in your area. It is important to research and ensures every installation detail is up to code and will not cause any problems in the future.

For example, International Building Code requires a raised rib metal panel to have a minimum of a 3/12 pitch unless there is a lap sealant. The roof's slope determines how much ice and snow can rest on the roof and cause potential damage to the home your roof rests on. 

Safety Procedures

When it is time to install your first residential metal roof, it is crucial to remember the safety procedures. Like on any job site, installing a metal roof can be dangerous when you are not taking the necessary precautions. Falling while installing the roof is a real risk that must be taken seriously.

Slipping hazards are common when it rains due to the wet and slippery surface. Avoid working on a roof if the weather does not allow it. Fall protection should be used at all times. Cutting the panels can cause metal shards and debris to fly in the air. Always wear protective eyewear to keep your eyes safe from flying debris. 

Customer Service

When a homeowner hires you to complete their new roofing installation, they immediately trust your ability. The least you can do is provide continuous communication and outstanding customer service. You want to be upfront and transparent about your pricing from the beginning.

A clear and comprehensive pricing guide is one of the best ways to give your customers a great first impression. Even if the prices are higher than expected, they will be grateful that you were upfront about costs from the beginning. Along the way, you will want to give your customers insight into every material you use and how you cut the panels. When they have all the information needed, they can make informed decisions about the style of the panels. 

Business Management

Connecting with other experts and trusted metal roofing suppliers is a great way to further your education and gain insight from experts in the industry. As you market your business, you must focus on other important aspects. Building a reliable crew, reading up on local building codes, and determining competitive pricing is all part of the job. Metal roofing can completely revolutionize your business, but you must know how to manage it properly. 

Your Roofing Supplier

We want to walk beside you through every step of the installation process so you can have a reliable, trustworthy resource. By providing excellent services and the highest quality materials, we work to make your job easier so you can focus on providing your clients with the best metal roof installation. You have come to the right place if you are searching for quality materials. Get a quote from a team member today and work with a reliable metal roofing supplier!