Metal roofs are popular for Nebraska homeowners thanks to their durability, energy efficiency, and modern appearance. But while metal roofing offers a long-term return on investment, the installation process is no small feat. Before you decide to install metal roofing yourself, it’s important to understand what the job really entails and why hiring a professional like ABC Seamless of Nebraska might be a smarter (and way less stressful) move.
How Do You Install Metal Roofing?
Installing a metal roof, particularly steel, is a precise and complex process. It involves:
- Removing old roofing materials and inspecting the underlying structure.
- Installing a moisture barrier or underlayment.
- Measuring, cutting, and fastening metal panels with special screws in a specific pattern to create proper sealing and alignment. Cutting the panels requires specialized equipment
- Installing flashing around vents, chimneys, and edges to prevent leaks.
This may sound simple on paper, but every step requires absolute precision, the right tools, and experience with the material. One wrong measurement or misplaced fastener can compromise the entire roof system.
Should You Install Metal Roofing Yourself?
As seamless steel roofers, we don’t want to seem too biased against installing a metal roof yourself. It can truly be a rewarding experience to DIY home improvements, including a roof. To be fair, we’ll lay out a few reasons why installing a metal roof might be a good idea, but only if you are 100% sure you can do it properly:
Potential Cost Savings
For most, the biggest benefit of installing your own metal roof is the savings on professional labor. Roofing contractors can be expensive, and doing the work yourself allows you to avoid paying for their time and expertise. That being said, even small mistakes during a DIY project can be very expensive to mitigate later on, and your homeowner’s insurance might not cover replacement or issues related to water damage if you did it yourself. If you have any qualms about your abilities, it’s best left to a professional.Â
Increased Knowledge and Satisfaction
Installing a metal roof yourself is a valuable learning experience, and successfully completing a complex roofing project provides a significant sense of achievement. There’s something to be said for that.Â
Greater Control Over Timing
A lot of folks like the idea of being able to work at their own pace on their own time. While it is true that a DIY project allows for this, most contractors are more than willing to work around your schedule and they will be able to complete it much faster. Trying to stretch out a roofing project over several weekends is risking adverse weather with an exposed underlayment and decking. A professional will take steps to ensure exposed areas are well-protected in the event bad weather strikes.Â
Long-Term Investment
A properly installed metal roof can last for decades, and the value it adds to your home can be significant. If any issues are found later on, however, it can have the opposite effect. Should you wish to sell your property, you may have to eat the cost of repairs or lower your sale price.
Don’t Risk It, Let A Professional Install Your Metal RoofÂ
While the DIY route might seem like a way to save money, installing a metal roof is simply not your average weekend project. Here’s why it’s best left to professionals:
Installing Seamless Metal Roofing Requires Extremely Precise Measurements
Metal panels must be cut to exact lengths to ensure proper coverage, alignment, and weather resistance. Small errors can lead to water intrusion, roof failure, or costly material waste.
Special Equipment Is Needed to Install Metal Roofing
Metal roofing installation requires tools like metal shears, seamers, safety harnesses, etc. Most homeowners don’t have access to or experience with this kind of equipment.
You May Need Permits Before Installing a Metal Roof
In Nebraska, local codes require permits for roof replacements. Professional roofing companies like ABC Seamless of Nebraska understand local regulations and can handle the paperwork for you.Â
Keep in mind that, even if you choose to install metal roofing yourself and get the required permits, you may still need a professional inspection once work is completed. You can avoid this hassle by working with a pro contractor from the get-go. Â
There May Be Warranties on the Materials You Use but Not on the Work You Do
Many metal roofing materials come with warranties, but these typically only cover the materials, not improper installation. A professional installation includes a workmanship warranty, giving you peace of mind.Â
Insurance Will Cover Professional Work
Again, insurance will not cover mistakes made during a DIY installation. A professional installation, however, comes with warranties and guarantees that mean future repairs can be covered under your plan.Â
Professionals Can Install Metal Roofing Much Faster and More Safely
Roofing is inherently dangerous, especially when handling slick steel panels at dangerous heights. Pros are trained to work safely and efficiently. What could take you several weekends can often be completed by a professional crew in 4-7 days.
If You Install Metal Roofing Yourself, You’re Responsible for the Removal of Old Roofing Materials and All Cleanup
When you go it alone, cleanup is your responsibility, from removing old shingles to hauling away debris and packaging. A professional team will handle the mess and leave your property looking spotless. They will also ensure materials are disposed of in a safe, eco-conscious manner.Â
Leave It to the Professionals to Install Your Metal Roof
Installing a metal roof is a long-term investment for your home. Don’t risk that investment with a DIY job that may lead to leaks, code violations, or safety hazards. At ABC Seamless of Nebraska, our experienced roofing professionals have the tools, training, and knowledge to install your metal roof the right way for the first time. Contact us for a free quote, and let us safely, quickly, and correctly take care of the hard work.
