Can You DIY a Standing Seam Metal Roof?
Underlayment protects your roof from leaks and damage. Discover the main types, pros and cons, and how to pick the right one for your project.
Do-it-yourself (DIY) projects, whether it be repairing a leaky faucet or changing the oil in your car, can be very advantageous – they help you see the inner workings of products and systems you use every day, and can also save you a lot of money. But what about when it comes to bigger projects – like installing a standing seam metal roof?
In this article, we’ll look at how feasible it is to install a standing seam metal roof without the help of a professional roofing contractor. We’ll go over key considerations before you decide to DIY install a metal roof, the pros and cons, and some frequently asked questions about the process.
Can You Install a Metal Roof Yourself?
It’s possible to install a standing seam metal roof yourself – people have done it successfully, but the truth is it can be very challenging, very time-consuming, and should only be attempted by those who understand the kind of personal investment it requires.
The degree of difficulty and the time commitment depend on many factors, including the roof’s complexity, the panel type, and the type of roofing system.
Key Considerations Before DIY Installation of a Metal Roof
Roof Design Complexity
How complex is your roof project going to be? Is it a simple cover-up over a small shed? Or is it going over a large home, with dormers, valleys, overhangs, and multiple penetrations?
The latter will be much more complex and more liable to serious errors. The more complex the roof is, the more cut-up is, the more likely it’s not going to be a good candidate for a DIY installation.
Panel Type and System Selection
Exposed fastener roofing systems install easier than standing seam systems. And even within standing seam roofs you have multiple types – snap-lock systems typically install easier than mechanical seam systems, which require specialized equipment.
Standing seam systems might be more difficult to install, but they offer better longevity and performance compared to exposed fastener systems, so you’ll have to weigh the pros and cons and prioritize what you want out of your roof.
Planning and Layout
Intricate planning is essential before installing any metal roof, especially if you’re doing it yourself. You want to have the full installation plan before you begin, including what sections you’ll install first and the path you’ll take around the roof.
Every part of this is integral – if you install a misaligned panel to start the project, it could throw off the design of the entire roof. The weather is a big factor here, too – you’ll need a window of clear weather to lay the panels so that rain doesn’t disrupt the project.
Also, before you begin, you should do research into any local codes or regulations that apply to your project.
Material Estimation
You’ll need to calculate your exact panel lengths, accounting for any hems you’ll need to make, and determine how many clips, fasteners, and how much trim you’ll need. You’ll want to order extra material to cover waste and possible rework due to installation errors. If you need to redo a section, that surplus will save you time and delays.
Tools and Equipment
DIYing a metal roof will require investing in safety gear if you don’t have any already. This includes harnesses, lifelines, and anchors. You’ll need ladders, drills, snips, bending and cutting tools – check out our article for the tools you’ll need for a metal roofing project:
Metal Roofing Tools 101: Recommended Tools for Installing a Metal Roof – Sheffield Metals
If you’re installing a mechanically-seam metal roof, you’ll need to rent or buy specialized tools like a hand or robotic seamer.
Safety Considerations
Working at heights leaves you open to serious injury, so be sure you’re taking the proper precautions if you do decide to install the roof yourself. Make sure you have the proper PPE equipment, including gloves, safety glasses, pants, and the correct shoes.
Tie-off and fall protection is required. Know the correct way to lift and lay panels so you don’t strain yourself. And understand how different types of weather can affect the project – condensation, intense heat, and rain can make the project more dangerous.
Time Commitment
Installing a standing seam metal roof isn’t something that can be done piecemeal in your free time after work. It’s a full-scale, full-time project. Even full crews with 8+ workers don’t finish a job quickly. Your DIY project could take weeks or months, and you’ll need to include buffers in your plan for weather or unforeseen delays.
DIY Metal Roof Installation FAQs
Pros and Cons of DIY Metal Roof Installation
Pros
- Saving on labor: DIY means you don’t have to pay for someone else to install your roof. Instead, you can invest that money in buying your own materials and tools.
- Understanding of how the roof was installed: If a problem does arise, you may be better equipped to diagnose and fix the problem, as you understand how it was installed.
- Your house, your labor: For you, the project is something you’ll actually be living in – not just another job. You may have more motivation to ensure everything is up to standard – or beyond – when you’re the one who owns it.
Cons
- No professional workmanship warranties: For DIY projects, you are your own warranty – any mistakes are yours to own, so any repairs or replacements will fall on you.
- Time-intensive: While you won’t have to pay for labor, you’re swapping that money for your own time. It could take weeks or months of intensive work to complete the project.
- Up front tool and equipment costs: Even though you won’t have to pay for labor, you’ll still likely need to invest in materials and tools and equipment, whether it be safety equipment or tools like snips and seamers.
- Risk of mistakes leading to leaks or premature failure: If you’re not a professional, you’re at a greater risk of making mistakes, which could lead to leaks or premature failure of the entire roofing system.
- Difficulty sourcing materials or getting assistance mid-project: If you encounter issues mid-job, it might be challenging sourcing materials or finding a professional for assistance – many contractors will be unwilling or unavailable to take over partially-completed jobs.
Bottom Line: Should You DIY Install Your Metal Roof?
Whether or not you install your metal roof yourself comes down to the unique project and how well-equipped you think you are to handle it. Here’s a brief rundown of what to look for before you DIY install your metal roof:
- Carefully assess your physical ability, experience, time, and finances
- Develop a detailed plan including staging, materials, equipment, and safety
- Have a backup plan and financial cushion if you need professional help
- Know your local building codes and requirements
Find a Qualified Metal Roofing Contractor in Your Area with the Sheffield Metals’ Residential Referral Program
DIY-ing your metal roof can be a huge accomplishment if done correctly. We’ve partnered with homeowners who have succeeded and been proud of their work. However, in many cases, it just doesn’t make sense, whether it‘s because of the time investment needed, the lack of experience and knowledge, or just the sheer risk if something does go wrong.
A lot of times it makes more sense to enlist the help of a professional metal roofing contractor, with years of experience and an in-depth knowledge of how to install. If you do decide to go with a contractor, feel free to take advantage of the Sheffield Metals Residential Referral Program, which connects homeowners to experienced, reliable metal roofing contractors in their region. Visit our Homeowner Hub today and scroll to the Residential Referral Program to get matched with a contractor.
