What Metal Roofing Involves
Metal roofing replaces your existing roof with interlocking metal panels—standing-seam steel, exposed-fastener aluminum, corrugated metal panels, or stone-coated steel options.
Each system locks together at seams or fastens with screws, creating a weathertight layer over your roof deck.
The process starts with a roof inspection and comprehensive estimates. Most homes need a complete tear-off of old asphalt shingles, damaged roofing felt, and deteriorated underlayment.
Once the substrate is prepped, we install new synthetic underlayment and ice-and-water shield—critical in our winter climate.
Standing-seam panels (by brands like McElroy Metal or ATAS) snap together with no exposed fasteners, while exposed-fastener and corrugated systems use ring-shank nails or self-tapping screws sealed with mastic or caulk.
Stone-coated steel adds a protective mineral coating for durability and lasting color. All options comply with local building code requirements.
Metal panels attach to the roof deck with fasteners spaced per manufacturer spec. Ridge caps, drip edges, and flashing seal the perimeter.
Step flashing secures where the roof meets chimneys or sidewalls. Pipe boots seal around vents and skylights. Counter-flashing at parapet edges prevents water intrusion.
Your gutters and downspouts channel runoff away from soffit and fascia.
We handle debris removal and haul away all old shingles and tar paper in a dumpster.
Our Installation Process
We follow a step-by-step method to ensure your roof meets building code and performs flawlessly:
- Roof Inspection & Estimate — We photograph your existing roof, check for rot in rafters and roof deck, and walk you through options: standing-seam vs. exposed-fastener systems, colors, and warranty terms.
- Permit & Scheduling — We pull local Somerset County permits and coordinate structural engineering if required for older homes. Scheduling accounts for weather and material deliveries.
- Tear-Off & Substrate Prep — Crews remove old shingles, felt, and damaged decking. We inspect rafters, trusses, and ridge beams for rot or settling. Any weak framing is reinforced or replaced.
- Underlayment & Ventilation — We install synthetic underlayment rated for 50+ years, plus ice-and-water shield along eaves and valleys. Soffit vents and ridge vents remain open for attic ventilation—critical for insulation performance.
- Panel Installation — Metal panels lay starter-to-ridge, overlapping per spec. Each row fastens with ring-shank nails or self-tapping screws at staggered intervals. Standing-seam systems use a crimping tool; exposed-fastener panels are hand-sealed.
- Flashing & Trim — Step flashing secures where roof meets sidewalls or chimneys. Pipe boots seal around vents and skylights. Counter-flashing at parapets and ridge caps complete the weatherproofing.
- Gutter & Cleanup — We reinstall or replace gutters as needed, securing downspouts. Magnetic sweeps remove dropped fasteners; all old materials go into a dumpster.
- Final Inspection — Walk-through with you, photo documentation, and warranty registration.
Cost Considerations in Hillsborough
Metal roofing costs $8–$14 per square foot installed (a "square" = 100 sq ft).
For a typical 2,000 sq ft ranch or split-level home, expect $16,000–$28,000 before permits.
Factors affecting your price:
- Roof pitch — Steeper roofs require more labor and scaffold rental.
- Existing condition — Rot in rafters or plywood adds replacement costs; ice-and-water damage increases substrate repairs.
- Material choice — Standing-seam steel costs more than exposed-fastener aluminum but lasts longer and looks sleeker.
- Roof complexity — Dormers, skylights, and multiple penetrations increase flashing and labor.
- Building code compliance — Somerset County requires structural certification for homes over 40 years old, adding engineer fees (~$300–$500).
Many homeowners offset costs with insurance rebates (some carriers reduce premiums 10–15% for metal roofs) and energy savings—metal reflects summer heat, reducing air-conditioning strain.
Warranty & Insurance
Metal panel manufacturers—McElroy, ATAS, Decra—typically offer 25–50 year non-prorated warranties covering material defects. Our workmanship carries a 10-year warranty on flashing, sealing, and fastening.
If a storm damages your roof, we handle the full insurance claim process:
- Damage documentation with photographs of hail strikes, dents, or punctures
- Written roof inspection report and repair estimate for your adjuster
- Supplemental claim filing if damage exceeds the initial reserve
- Direct coordination with your insurance company to expedite approval
Ice dams are common in Hillsborough winters. Metal roofing plus proper ventilation plus ice-and-water shield typically prevent them.
If one forms, the metal won't retain water like asphalt shingles do, reducing interior leak risk dramatically.
Why Choose Hillsborough Roofing Pros
We've installed metal roofs on Victorian homes in historic areas, mid-century ranches in Country Club Estates, and newer colonials in Manville Manor.
We understand the unique demands: heavy snow loads on older, shallower roofs; salt spray corroding fasteners; and humid summers promoting algae and moss on adjacent surfaces.
Our crew is Trusted. We pull permits, coordinate with insurance adjusters, and explain every step. You'll never wonder what we're doing or why.
We use only proven materials from established brands like McElroy Metal and ATAS—not bargain imports.
Your metal roof is a 40–50 year investment; we treat it accordingly.
Signs You Need Metal Roofing
Asphalt Shingles Curling & Fading
Shingles typically last 15–20 years in Somerset County's freeze-thaw winters and humid summers. Curling, granule loss, and color fading signal end-of-life wear.
Metal roofing eliminates this cycle and holds color for decades.
Ice Dams Forming Along Eaves
Heavy snow followed by freeze-thaw cycles create ice dams where water backs up beneath shingles.
Metal roofing sheds snow and ice instead of trapping melt water, preventing costly interior damage and attic rot.
Leaks After Heavy Rain or Snowmelt
Aging asphalt roofs develop gaps and seam failures. Spring thunderstorms expose every weak spot in roofing felt and flashing.
Metal roofs with properly sealed flashing and ice-and-water shield stay dry during the heaviest precipitation.
Daylight Visible in Your Attic
Holes or gaps in roof deck and roofing felt let weather and pests in.
A full metal roof replacement includes new decking, underlayment, and ventilation—restoring attic integrity and insulation performance.
Sagging Ridge or Soft Spots Underfoot
Rot in rafters, trusses, and roof deck weaken the structure. Soft spots signal decay of wood framing.
A complete tear-off lets us assess and repair decking and framing before installing your new metal roof.
Home Over 25 Years Old With Original Roof
Mid-century ranches and split-levels throughout Hillsborough, Clover Hill, and Country Club Estates are prime candidates.
Metal roofing is the upgrade that adds decades of protection and significantly boosts resale value.
What's Included
- ✓ Free roof inspection with written condition report and photos
- ✓ Manufacturer warranty registration (25–50 years depending on material)
- ✓ Full tear-off and haul-away of old shingles, felt, and debris
- ✓ Magnetic nail sweep and ground cleanup around gutters and perimeter
- ✓ Local building permit pulled and structural engineering if required
- ✓ Insurance claim coordination and supplemental paperwork support
- ✓ Gutter inspection and repair or replacement if damaged
Related Services
Ready to get started? Call us today at 9086630781 for a free estimate.
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