Metal roofs look great, but metal roof installation mistakes are possible. Trusted professionals offering roof replacement in Austin, TX, can avoid errors through expertise and proven techniques for proper installation of these materials.
Errors Inexperienced Roofers Might Make
Hiring a roofing company that has never installed a metal roof before is a risky proposition. Such companies might not know how to prevent errors that lead to water damage or panels that tear loose during windstorms. Such companies are likely to make common errors that experienced professionals know how to avoid.
Making Measurement Errors
Without accurate measurements, installers will order the wrong panel sizes, and they won’t fit. Even slight measurement errors lead to incorrect panel alignment and don’t account for thermal expansion and contraction.
Ignoring the Roof’s Pitch
Panels use different seams to account for varying pitches of the metal roof. A home with multiple slopes requires an experienced team to account for the pitch of each section when ordering panels.
Adding Off-Center Fasteners Affects Waterproofing
One of the most common metal roof installation mistakes is improper fastener installation. Over- or under-tightened screws, fasteners with off-center washers, and crookedly aligned screws will allow water to penetrate inside the decking.
Picking the Wrong Screw Materials
When installing panels, it’s not a situation where just any screw will do the job. The material of the screw has to match the metal panel material, or you risk compromising the waterproof features of both components. Using the wrong screw material could lead to corrosion after several years, necessitating major repair work.
Flashing That Easily Comes Loose
A poor flashing installation process can lead to leaks. If not properly attached, loose flashing may tear completely away in the next Texas thunderstorm, allowing water to penetrate.
Inexperienced workers may choose the wrong size or an incorrect flashing design to match the panels you’re installing, increasing the chance of leaks.
Using Sealant Not Made for Metal
Sealants on the panels' seams keep moisture and dirt from seeping underneath. Inexperienced companies might use the cheapest caulk they can find. However, you need a high-quality sealant specifically made for metal roofing panels.
Selecting the Wrong Underlayment
Using inadequate roof underlayment is a common error that inexperienced installers make. Some of them may skip the underlayment entirely. The right underlayment material resists condensation, minimizing the risk of water collecting beneath the panels.
Trusted Professionals Know How To Avoid These Errors
Rather than worrying about metal roof installation mistakes, rely on experienced professionals for the work. When selecting a company to do the job, look for specific experience in installing metal roofing panels. Adding these panels and flashing requires certain skills that are different from nailing asphalt shingles in place.
As an added advantage, hiring a company with a history of working with metal means it can source a variety of material colors. They'll know how to find a product that perfectly matches your home’s style and will last for decades.
Why Metal Roof Replacement in Austin, TX, Is a Smart Choice
The climate in central Texas can be challenging for roofing materials. Significant sunshine, hot summer days, and occasional severe thunderstorms can wear out asphalt singles. However, metal is a far more durable roofing material that successfully stands up to the local climate. When you need a replacement, you don’t have to use the same materials you had previously. You can switch from shingles to metal panels with the help of professionals.
Beyond withstanding harsh weather, metal roof replacement in Austin, TX, is worth considering for its desirable properties. Adding this material to a home will boost its value if you plan to sell in the next several years. Metal will last 50 years or more, making it a great long-term financial investment.
When You Want a Metal Roof, Trust Longhorn Roofing for the Perfect Results
When you need a new roof, you might consider metal roofing. It's beautiful, hardy, and an excellent long-term investment. However, not just any roof installer can avoid metal roof installation mistakes and successfully work with this material.
At Longhorn Roofing, we have a track record of success with all roofing materials, including metal, and our skilled professionals know which techniques will guarantee an outstanding result. For a free cost estimate or to learn more about our roofing options, call our team of professional roofers today at (512) 379-5469.
