<p>We have some hail damage and leaks, and the insurance company is paying us a small amount to replace the roof. We are thinking about putting on a metal standing seam roof but I have no bids yet. What should I be wary of? What have you learned that I should know. I’ve been out there on the internet looking at the roofing sites, but am surprised at how the information varies. I see some places say it’s okay to put standing seam over existing asphalt tile, some say no, etc. What has your experience been?</p>
<p>*the insurance company is paying us a small amount *</p>
<p>Go back and protest the amount if it’s too small. Provide estimates. Our entire area had major hail damage last year and many got their roofs replaced at full cost.</p>
<p>Do you only have one layer of shingles on your roof now and are they evenly flat? Metal roofs are very common in my area and many people do install them over shingles. But building codes here will only allow that over one layer, due to weight restrictions on roof trusses I think. I found that it’s best to check the manufacturer’s websites for recommendations (most have a contact link anyway) rather than the installer’s…you wouldn’t want to inadvertently void your warranty over a layer of old shingles!</p>
<p>M2, standing seam is quite expensive compared to shingles and it’s likely they’re only getting a reimbursed for the cost of re-shingling! Conventional metal roofing is in between the two, cost-wise, but a fairly easy DIY for those without frightening rooflines.</p>
<p>I put standing seam metal on three different houses, because I like the looks and the long guarantees, but I never put it over an existing roof. I will point out that some neighborhood codes don’t allow it.</p>
<p>I love standing seam metal roofs and really wanted if for a house we are building. Alas, the cost of it was soo much beyond shingle that it didn’t fit our budget. Shingles for us.
If money is an issue, do lots of research before signing a contract.</p>
<p>I’m not quite sure what you mean by “asphalt tile”, but if you are talking about a shingle roof, a good roofing crew can rip an old shingle roof off down to plywood in no time flat. I wouldn’t install something as expensive (and long term) as a high-end metal roof on top of shingles. Take it down to plywood, fix up any problems, and do it the right way.</p>
<p>Yes - looks like we’ll do a rip-off if we go with the standing seam roof…waiting for bids now. There is a $1500 tax credit for energy star reroofs from the federal government, and there may be a house insurance reduction due to the type of roofing - here’s hoping!!! Any more advice?</p>
<p>We put on a hail-resistant asphalt shingle roof and saved quite a bit on our insurance. Talk to your agent to find out what qualifies and what kind of documentation they require.</p>