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Do I need furring strips under metal roof?

If you're updating your home with a sleek metal roof, you may wonder if you should add wood stripping under the new roof. Furring strips bolster insulation to prevent condensation. It's not ideal to install a metal roof over shingles without furring strips.

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Highlights Some metal roofs require metal stripping to work efficiently.

Use the manufacturer's specifications as your guide.

Lack of wood stripping can cause condensation issues.

Specific batten techniques can increase ventilation in attics with metal roofs.

Wood battens can create problems with gutters, skylights, and chimneys.

Get quotes from up to 3 pros ! Enter a zip below and get matched to top-rated pros near you. Find pros If you’re updating your home with a sleek metal roof , you may wonder if you should add wood stripping under the new roof. Furring strips bolster insulation to prevent condensation. It's not ideal to install a metal roof over shingles without furring strips. Here’s what to know when it comes to adding wood stripping under your metal roof.

Wood Stripping 101

First, it’s important to understand the importance of wood stripping, and how it functions. Wood stripping can bolster your new metal roof's performance in a number of ways. Mainly, it creates a thermal break that minimizes the transfer of heat from your new metal roofing material to the roof deck. Wood stripping is especially beneficial in homes with poor attic insulation and ventilation. It's possible that you experienced poor ventilation with your asphalt roof without any condensation issues. However, the temperature changes that occur with the installation of a metal roof will remove that protection. That means that you could end up with a serious condensation issue that leads to moisture and mold problems if you're not using wood stripping with your new metal roof. Related Article What Are the Parts of a Roof? Knowing all the parts of a roof can help you save money, diagnose heating and cooling issues, and protect your home from water damage

Consider Your Roof Style

The answer to whether or not you need to install wood stripping under your roof comes down to the roof style you choose. Some metal roofs actually need to be installed over wood strips. This is common when you're using metal roofs with "tile" or "shake" aesthetics. Other styles should never be installed over wood stripping. There's also a third option. Some roofing styles are flexible enough to work with both strips and solid decking. How can you know if your new metal roof requires wood stripping? This is where doing your research on the roofing product you're using is important. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines regarding installation requirements and recommendations. Related Article Should You Tip Roofers for a Job Well Done? You don't have to tip roofers, but there are plenty of ways to show your appreciation

Consider an Underlayment

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If you're putting a new metal roof over old shingles or decking, consider an underlayment. Underlayments can be used with or without wood stripping using various installation techniques.

Consider Using Crossed Battens

Installation techniques can impact your new roof's performance. One option for installing a metal roof over shingles without furring strips is to use a cross-batten style. A cross-batten technique involves laying down vertical battens first. Next, the battens attach through the roof deck to your rafters. Finally, your horizontal battens are placed.

What Are the Benefits of Cross Battening a Roof?

The benefit of this technique is that the vertical chambers allow for better ventilation. While fresh air is drawn in from the bottom, the air is easily exhausted out the top. This can be extremely beneficial for getting heat out of your attic. It also achieves the reverse in the winter by preventing ice dams that can damage your roof's structure.

Are There Downsides to Cross Battening a Roof?

Yes, there are some potential downsides to a cross battening technique. Your roof level will be raised significantly. This means that you may need to hang your gutters again if you're replacing an existing roof versus building a new home. It will also create a gap between the existing fascia and the roof material—you will either need to replace all the fascia, or use a wider drip edge on the roof to cover the gap. In addition, homes with skylights, dormers, or chimneys could encounter cross battening issues. Getting advice from a local roofer can be essential when you don't know if your new metal roof requires wood stripping.

FAQs

Can you put a metal roof over shingles without furring strips?

It's not a good idea to install metal roofing over shingles without furring strips. Doing so would leave you with reduced insulation, noise reduction, and protection from the elements. While some homeowners do choose to forego furring strips when installing a metal roof to save on costs, it's not something that roofers typically recommend. Shingles by themselves, without furring strips, just don't offer as much insulation.

What do you put under a metal roof?

Roofers often install an underlayment under a metal roof, to offer added protection. A common type of underlayment for metal roofs is made of either tar or asphalt felt, which is a more budget-friendly option. A metal roof underlayment made of woven polymers costs a bit more, but offers more durability and a longer lifespan.

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