Can You Put A Metal Roof On A Flat Roof

A metal roof can actually last up to 100 years.

Can you put a metal roof on a flat roof.

Metal specifically aluminum is known for its durability. Low slope roofs are not totally flat their roof slope generally ranges from 1 4 12 to 3 12. Because of the shallow height of the undulating ridges of the 5v and corrugated profiles and the use of exposed metal fasteners to screw the metal to the roof deck they are limited to a slope that will shed rain quickly. But the taller profiles like standing seam and pbr shown below can be installed on roofs with as low as 1 4 or 1 2 in 12 pitch.

Metal is one of the most popular materials used for flat roof replacement. Codes vary so call your local building department to know how to install metal roofing over shingles properly code wise. Most metal shingles will be attached to the roof using metal shingle clips but metal roofing shingle installation can be system specific. Flat metal roofs can last for almost 35 years in ideal conditions.

Much past the 35 year mark though and you ll start to see problems with the roof. Flat roofs aren t completely flat and that allows water and ice to slide off easier. Metal metal has been used on flat roofs for many decades and it has proven that it is durable and can last about 35 years. It is not cheap to install but in the long run it pays off.

This eliminates the cost of ripping or tearing off existing material. Consult the guide for your shingle brand to determine the specific method of installation required to preserve the warranty. Low slope metal roofs have simple geometries and are easier and less expensive to install that medium to steep slope roofs. Plus it has the added advantage of reflecting heat from the sun which keeps energy costs down.

Installing a new roof with siding is the best idea. Low slope metal roofs require less material which reduces the overall load on the building s structure. These new roofs can be either low sloped less than 2 12 functional roofs or high pitched greater than 2 12 architectural roofs depending on the expectations of the building owner. Most codes now allow no more than two layers of roofing before requiring a complete tear off.

So if your roof has two layers it may require a complete tear off even though steel is lighter than asphalt. A metal roof can be installed right on top of your existing roof most of the time.