How To Retrofit Existing Roofs With New Metal Roofing Systems

NEW SLOPED ROOF OVER AN EXISTING FLAT ROOF

Light-gauge steel framing can be used to retrofit flat roofs to make a sloped roof. These systems can be used to replace existing roofing membranes or structures. However, it is important that structural engineering reviews are done before installing them. To create a sloped plan, these systems use lightweight (16 to 12 gauge) steel framing that is installed above an existing roof. The new lightweight framing system, regardless of whether your roof is made from steel, wood, or concrete, can be used to distribute roof load and attach securely.

The final shape of the new roof will be determined by the physical footprint of the roof and the type of framing system used. Low-slope applications (less than 2:22) can be chosen based on economics and designed to drain rainwater off the roof. High-slope applications are more likely to be used to update and improve the appearance of an existing building, as well as increase its long-term performance. Standing seam metal roof panels can be installed once the metal framing system has been in place. This creates a ventilated attic space.

RETROFIT ROOFING PANELS

When a low-slope aluminum roofing is required to improve overall roofing performance, it can be a great option. The exposed fastener system allows for the direct installation of new roofing panels over metal roofing or other materials. For retrofit purposes, roofing panels have a rib spacing between 12 and 1 inches. A panel with this type of slope is minimum 1/2:12. Before the panels can be installed, any existing lap screws should be removed from the roof. The screws used to attach the retrofit panels are through the existing panel majorribs and into existing purlins.

NEW STANDING SEAM ROOF

Sometimes, an older sloped roof might have another roofing material that is reaching the end of its useful life. A new, long-lasting, standing seam steel roofing system is possible to be installed over the existing roof. Some roofs will need a sub-frame system to allow the new roof can be installed directly on top of the existing. These retrofit roofing systems can be FM Global rated or UL-90 rated. There are other ways to improve the energy efficiency of a building by adding standing seam roofing. These include adding unfaced fiberglass insulation between the old roof and the new one, and venting the space between them with vent strips at their eaves. A vented roof ridge allows for air intake and exhaust. This works well for roof slopes greater than 3:12.

END RESULTS

No matter what system you choose, a retrofit steel roofing system will allow your existing roof to stay in place. This saves labor costs. This reduces water intrusion into buildings and creates a safer work environment. Any of the described systems can accommodate existing rooftop equipment, vents, and light-transmitting panel.

The Metal Construction Association (MCA) states that retrofit metal roofing in Manchester is an economically viable option for building owners looking to improve their existing structures or fix performance issues caused by aging roofs or out-of-date material. They are used in thousands of square feet of commercial, industrial, retail, and educational buildings. This new code-compliant metal roofing will last 60 years or more. It provides higher energy efficiency and reduces heat gain during summer months while reducing heat loss in winter.