By Dave and Mary

How to Install Metal Roof
Informational Guide

For the Perfect Metal Porch Roof

Our How To Install Metal Roof guide outlines the general steps that would be involved in installing a metal porch roof so you can decide if this project is within your capabilities.

Metal roofs costs significantly more than traditional asphalt shingled roofs. However, they can last far longer and are perfect for areas prone to wildfires.

Mary and I love the look of a metal porch roof; there's nothing quite like it. And there are so many color options too.

When installing a metal roof, you must pay attention to the smallest details. Our How To Install a Metal Roof guide will give you basic information about installing a colorful porch roof.


Beautiful metal roofing
Standing seam and metal shake roof
Photo courtesy of MetalRoofing.com

Metal Roof Longevity

Metal roofs are perhaps one of the only products that will actually outlive its warranty. Metal roofs have been on homes for hundreds of years in United States. Europeans have had them for centuries.

A metal roof, especially with the technology today using zinc and aluminum coatings and innovative painting systems, can last a lifetime. There are actually a few manufacturers that offer lifetime warranties.


Although from the ground it looks fairly easy, metal roof installation takes both special tools, a working knowledge of those tools, and roofing experience. Most homeowners do not possess these skills and should consult with a licensed metal roofing contractor.

Our How To Install Metal Roof guide will explain the steps for both standing seam metal roofing and metal shingles.


The following steps are for assessment purposes only and should not be used for actual construction. Be sure to follow all manufacturers instructions to the letter if installing metal roofing yourself.

You should also consult with your local building codes department prior to installation to ensure your project meets local code requirements.



Standing Seam Metal Roofing Installation

You should realize a standing seam metal roof is more difficult to install than metal shingles although it is the most popular.


Ordering Materials

Include at least 3 - 6 inches of overlap and the same for overhangs along the roof perimeter when ordering your metal panels. A metal roofing square is 100 square feet - you'll be ordering by the square.

How to Install Metal Roof - Safety Always First

Roofing is dangerous work. I've fallen off a ladder; it wasn't the fall that hurt but rather that sudden stop at the end.
    check mark Make sure all ladders are in good operating condition

    check mark Make sure there are least two or more people on site when working

    check mark Use a fall arrest system that is properly secured

    check mark Mark off areas where tools may drop

    check mark Keep children away - period.

    check mark Focus



How To Install Metal Roof - Roof Preparation

Your first issue is whether or not to remove the existing shingles. It is recommend that you do remove the shingles for standing seam metal roofs.

If you don't, you may find that asphalt shingles can cause dents and lines over time when using standing seam metal panels.

Removing the existing shingles will also expose deck roof damage and you'll have the opportunity for repairs. Another reason to remove existing shingles is for the installation of a water barrier.

Condensation occurs due to temperature fluctuations. Your metal porch roof will last over 50 years or more so having the best roof underlayment is a wise investment. You will want to cover the entire roof with the underlayment.

If you live in snow and ice country you need to take it one step further by laying down a row width of ice and water barrier along the eaves and valleys. I've used ice and water barrier and I'm sold on its ability to prevent water damage.


How To Install Metal Roof - Standing Seam Specs

Standing seam metal roofs are made from sheet metal roof panels joined and attached to the roof decking with hidden fasteners. Panels are typically 12, 16, or 19 inches wide and are made from copper, aluminum, or galvanized steel.

Ribs are formed when the panels are joined and can be anywhere from 1 inch to 1 1/2 inches in height.

To accommodate standing seam panels, your roof must have a 2:12 rise and run (sometimes called pitch). However, you may find some manufacturers that require more pitch so be sure your roof meets or exceeds their product specifications.


rise and run


We show you how to calculate the rise and run of your porch roof.


Use the right fasteners either supplied or approved by the manufacturer. Each overlapping panel hides the fasteners of the panel already in place.


metal roof delivery Panels are either formed at your home or can be cut and delivered by the manufacturer.


Make sure you have adequate space around your home to work with the panels.


metal roof drip edge


How to Install Metal Roof - Drip Edge and First Panel

metal roof drip edge Like any roofing project, installing the drip edge is the first step. Repeat this process for the gable rake.

Don't forget to lay the underlayment over the fascia trim to prevent water from collecting under the drip edge.

Photo shown here is courtesy of Lamsongf.


Now its time to install the first sheet metal panel in our "how to install metal roof" process. Normally you will install the first panel over the gable edge trim. This is where it is extremely important to follow manufacturer's installation instructions.


first metal roof panel
Photo courtesy of Lamsongf.
Continue fastening panels by securing them with hidden fasteners.


first metal roof panel
Photo courtesy of Lamsongf.


Watch This Short Video Showing Panel Installation




It is nearly impossible to show each step in our How To Install Metal Roof guide as the process is dependent on the product manufacturer.

Working around vents, chimneys, etc., can be tricky and requires experience to ensure a tight seal. That's why we recommend you consult with a licensed contractor.

If attempting this yourself as a homeowner, we recommend you roof a small outbuilding or shed first to gain more experience first.


Avoid These Five Common Installation Mistakes

This video explains how to avoid some common metal roof installation mistakes:







Mary and Dave, Founders of Front Porch Ideas and More
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Mary and Dave, Founders of Front Porch Ideas and More
Hi! We're Mary and Dave, lifelong DIYers, high school sweethearts, and we both love porches. You've come to the right place for thousands of porch ideas.
--- Our Sponsors ---
Use the PCA Visualizer to design your screen door

Shop for Porch Parts at Vintage Woodworks.

The Porch Store

--- End Sponsors ---


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At no extra cost to you, we earn a commission by referring you to some products on merchant sites. See our disclosure policy.
We, Front Porch Ideas and More, confirm, as stated on our privacy policy, that we do not sell personal information.

All content here is solely for presenting ideas. We recommend consulting with a licensed, experienced contractor before you begin your project.
We make no guarantees of accuracy or completeness of information on our site or any links to other websites contained here.

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