Three common retrofits
| Retrofit | What goes on | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Metal over metal | New sub-framing fastened through to the existing purlins, then new standing seam or R-panel | Worn-out R-panel on warehouses, storage and shops |
| Metal over a flat roof (slope build-up) | New framing that creates slope, then metal panels | Low-slope roofs with chronic ponding and leaks |
| Single-ply over metal | Insulation that fills the ribs, a cover board, then TPO or PVC | Very low-slope metal buildings, or where a membrane suits the building better |
What we check before recommending one
- Structure: whether the existing purlins and frame can carry the added load, and where new framing ties in. On larger jobs, an engineer confirms it.
- Attachment: new framing and membranes fasten into the structure below, not just into the old panels, with tighter spacing at corners and edges for wind uplift
- Moisture: wet insulation trapped under a retrofit causes trouble later; a drone thermal scan helps find it first
- Drainage: gutters, scuppers and downspouts sized for the new roof
- Penetrations: curbs, vents and skylights extended up through the new roof
- Code and permits: what the city and the building code require for a recover
Why owners pick a retrofit
- No tear-off, so the building stays dried in and operating
- Less debris hauled to the landfill
- A chance to add insulation in the new cavity
- On slope build-ups, a roof that finally sheds water
When a retrofit is the wrong answer
If the structure can't take the load, the deck is rotting or the old roof is soaked, a tear-off is usually the honest choice. And if the panels are still sound, a re-screw or restoration coating may do the job for much less. We price the options side by side. Every inspection comes with a free digital photo report, so you see what we see.
Panels and seams
Retrofits usually get mechanically seamed standing seam or R-panel in 24 or 26 gauge, formed to the length of each run so long buildings go without end laps. For homes, see metal over shingles.
We're certified with Johns Manville, GAF, CertainTeed, Owens Corning and Atlas. Manufacturer NDL (no-dollar-limit) warranties, such as a 20-year NDL, are available depending on the product and the warranty purchased, and are issued after the manufacturer's own inspection.
More metal: snap-lock standing seam · mechanically seamed · commercial R-panel · 26 gauge · roll-formed to length · retrofit over an existing roof · back to metal roofing
Commercial warranty: a workmanship warranty from 10 years up to lifetime, depending on the job, plus 10- to 20-year NDL (no-dollar-limit) manufacturer warranties. Manufacturer coverage depends on the product and brand, and on the project qualifying for that manufacturer's program. We put the exact warranty for your roof in writing.
Certified, with 30 years installing every major roofing brand, a family roofing business going back 75 years, and over $80 million in completed roofing projects. 5.0 stars on Google at all three of our offices.
Request a free inspection or call (817) 733-9228. Small repairs are welcome too.