How to Install Pro-Panel Roofing

It can be difficult to decide which material to use when you're going to redo the roof of your home. Pro-Panel roofing, as well as Menards metal roofing like Pro-Rib steel roofing, is a popular choice for homeowners because it's relatively easy to install and doesn’t cost as much as some more traditional materials. Before you proceed with installation, familiarizing yourself with basic metal roofing instructions and some safety strategies is critical.

What Is Pro-Panel Roofing?

Pro-Panel roofing is made of metal and can be installed over existing roofing material, which can save a lot of time. Rather than having to remove the existing roof or strip it down to the sublayer, it’s possible to just put the metal roof over shingles that are already installed. Pro-Panel roofing is also very durable and fire resistant, which is a comforting feature.

Basic Safety Instructions

If you’ll be accessing the roof of your home via a ladder, be sure that it's firmly planted. Ask another adult to stand at the base of the ladder and hold it as you climb. Keeping a spotter present throughout the period while you’re on the roof is a safe bet, too.

Never do roofing work if it's raining or has recently, as the water can make things very slippery. This can lead to dangerous conditions on the roof and could cause you to fall. Additionally, refrain from doing roof replacement or any outdoor work during a thunderstorm.

Installing Pro-Panel Roofing

Use a broom or brush to clear the roof of leaves, sticks and dirt. If you'll be installing the new roofing material over existing shingles, be sure they're dry and clear of debris. If you plan to remove the old shingles, you’ll need to remove them before moving ahead. Once you’ve done so, be sure that all remnants of the material are cleared off the roof. Take care of any nails that might remain in the sublayer and could cause injury.

Cover the roof with underlayment to protect your sublayer from water damage. If you're installing your metal roof over existing shingles, you don’t necessarily have to use the underlayment. Position the underlayment in horizontal rows, beginning at the bottom of the roof, and overlap the rows by at least 6 inches. This way, any water that does run down the roof and through the metal material will run over, rather than in between, the rows of underlayment.

Next, start laying the metal roofing material. You’ll want to start this at the eave, or low end, of the roof. Overhang the material by about 1.5 inches. Use a sealant tape to fix it in place. Then, use exposed fasteners to keep the panel from moving. Space your fasteners 12 inches apart from one another.

Lay your next panel, following the same instructions for sealant tape and fasteners. Continue until the entire roof is covered. You can also use flashing along the edges of the roof to better protect it.