Roofing Answers Articles

Can A Metal Roof Contain A Fire?

December 15, 2009

Q: “…will a fire explode out of the sides of the house rather than through the roof when a metal roof is on a home?” A: Good question. Most asphalt and fiberglass shingles get a Class A fire rating. Metal while it is extremely fire resistant to small burning embers that may land on it,… ( read more )

Appearance of Color Difference

October 10, 2009

Q: I have a contractor who is installing a snap-lock system roof on my project. He used his roll former to create a “double male” panel which he then installed at the top of the hips on the roof. He did this because he did not feel that he could run his panels up the… ( read more )

Install Over Low Slope Torch Down Roof

September 24, 2009

Q: I have a 1950’s home that is in need of new roof (estimated year left on old, very low slope torch down roof). I am interested in placing a metal roof on the home and am curious if it possible to install over the existing torch down assuming there are no leaks and sheathing… ( read more )

Cedar Shake Replacement

Q: I currently have a Cedar Shake shingle roof that is some twenty years old. Im considering having a metal shingle style roof installed. My concern is the under lay, and future repair to metal shingles. Is it appropriate to install the metal shingles over the cedar shingles? Once a metal shingle roof is installed… ( read more )

Install Metal Over Old Shingles

Q: I was given a quote to install a metal roof over the existing shingles. The shingles are very curled on parts of the roof. Is this an issue? The installer stated the curls would break off when they are walking on it during the installation. A: I suggest two things. 1) Always a layer… ( read more )

Plywood Beneath Metal Roofing?

September 4, 2009

Q: We are getting estimates on replacing the tin roof on our house. One contractor has given us an estimate with a plywood sheathing base under the metal and another without. He said that adding the sheathing would enhance the wind resistance and leak resistance of the roof. (We live in southeast Louisiana.)Another contractor has… ( read more )