Photo: James Frid

Can you metal roof yourself?

Metal roofing systems that you can install yourself are readily available, but you need to feel comfortable working with metal (and you'll pay a pretty steep price). The only specialty tool you'll need is a locking sheet metal tool (available at roofing suppliers or online).

familyhandyman.com - Long-Lasting Metal Roof Panels (DIY) - The Family Handyman

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Long-Lasting Metal Roof Panels

DIY metal roof panels that look great!

Family Handyman Interlocking metal roofing panels are expensive, but they're DIY—friendly, they look great, and they'll last 50 years or more. Get an overview of installation and costs. You might also like: TBD

Getting started with metal roofing panels

Metal roofing details This can be a DIY metal roof project if you’re comfortable working with metal. Metal roofing systems that you can install yourself are readily available, but you need to feel comfortable working with metal (and you’ll pay a pretty steep price). The only specialty tool you’ll need is a locking sheet metal tool (available at roofing suppliers or online). Metal roofs are fire resistant (you may earn a discount on your homeowner’s insurance), they look nice (which can improve curb appeal), and melting snow easily slides off (which eliminates the extra weight on the roof). Edco (shown in the photo; edcoproducts.com) and Tamko (tamko.com) both make interlocking metal roofing panels that are installed with clips and roofing nails. The systems have specially designed starter strips, valleys, gable trim flashing and flashing for dormers, chimneys and skylights. Each panel interlocks with the underlying and adjacent panels or with the flashing. Manufacturers say the most common question homeowners have concerns noise. Don’t worry; rain hitting the metal roof won’t be noticeably louder than rain on an asphalt roof.

Metal Shingle Roof Cost

Metal roofs cost about $250 per square (1 square = 100 s.f.). If you do it yourself, the average roof would cost about $4,000, significantly less than hiring a contractor to install three-tab shingles. And while the price of materials is six times as much as low-end three-tab asphalt shingles (which start at $35 to $40 per square), metal roofs last 50 years or more, so you won’t have to worry about reroofing. Metal roofs can be special ordered in a variety of colors at lumberyards and roof supply companies.

Required Tools for this metal roof Project

Have the necessary tools for this DIY metal roof project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.

Chalk line

Hammer

Knee pads

Safety glasses

Stapler

Tin snips

Utility knife

Required Materials for this metal roof Project

You’ll also need roof jacks, a roofing harness, and a locking sheet metal tool. Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here’s a list.

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What's the difference between number 15 and number 30 roof felt?

#30 or #15 Weight Felt? While #15 is a good option for most roofing jobs, #30 provides more protection and performance for steep roofs and flat roofs. If your roof does not have a steep pitch, you can use #15. This weight of felt is a good economic choice if you have a standard roof.

acuraroofing.com - Felt matter comparing: #30 or #15? - Acura Roofing Inc.

Why does felt matter and when is #30 used compared to #15?

A felt underlay provides a barrier between the decking of the roof and the shingles. It helps to repel water while still providing some air to pass through. This protects the wood from becoming damaged and essentially gives you a better looking and longer lasting roof. Felt also provides a safer working environment for the crew by giving them better traction and helping to keep them from slipping.

#30 or #15 Weight Felt?

While #15 is a good option for most roofing jobs, #30 provides more protection and performance for steep roofs and flat roofs. If your roof does not have a steep pitch, you can use #15. This weight of felt is a good economic choice if you have a standard roof. But if your roof has a steep pitch, #30 is a better option because it is thicker and tears less during installation. With #30 you get a thicker layer of underlayment and protection. Even if there is a lot of moisture it will have a harder time getting through the thickness of #30. The thickness of the #30 felt helps with better traction for the workers while on a steep pitched roof. The best person to consult is a roofer you can trust, someone who knows the benefits of both weights of felt. Generally speaking, if your roof is above a certain pitch you will need the #30 pound felt and if your roof is under a certain pitch you can go with the #15 pound felt. Your felt is usually an automatic industry standard, most often the customer does not choose the felt they would prefer, roofers will follow code based on the specs of the roof.