But before you can start installing a metal roof, you need to measure the dimensions of your roof so you can order materials in the correct sizes. Most roofs aren’t perfectly square, so it can be tricky to measure your roof accurately. Fortunately, this guide can help you make sense of the steps involved.
Or, if you don’t want to go to the trouble of precisely measuring your roof by yourself, you can count on Tri County Metals to provide you with fast and accurate measurements using CAD (computer-aided design) technology.
What Is CAD?
Computer-aided design (CAD) technology is a powerful tool used by engineers, architects, and designers of many kinds to create accurate 2D and 3D models. CAD software allows users to quickly generate detailed drawings with precise measurements, angles, and shapes. CAD software also offers powerful tools for analyzing complex designs.
CAD technology makes it easier to measure a roof for metal roofing by enabling the user to quickly generate accurate designs with exact measurements. The user can adjust the dimensions of the roof plan according to their needs and export it in various formats such as PDF or DXF files.
How to Measure Roof Dimensions for Metal Roofing?
You’ll want to start by creating a top-down sketch of your roof. The quality of the drawing is not as important as the quality of the measurements themselves. As long as everything is clearly labeled, just a very basic drawing is fine for now.
Once you have your sketch, it’s time to start measuring. Use the following steps to get accurate measurements of your roof:
First, measure the length of your roof. Measure from the eave to the ridge at each point where the distance differs.
Next, measure the width of the roof parallel to the ridge or eave. Divide the width of your roof by the width of the metal panels you’ll be using to determine how many panels you’ll need.
Then, measure the pitch of the roof and mark the directions of the downslopes with arrows on your sketch.
Finally, measure the dimensions of any roof penetrations like skylights or chimneys that will affect the shapes in which your roofing panels will need to be cut.
Every roof is different, but the steps involved are mostly the same. You can use these four basic steps to approach the measurement process with confidence. Once you have your measurements, you can order the materials you need from Tri County Metals.
Why Is Metal Roof Measurement Necessary?
Accurate measurements are crucial when you're installing a new metal roof on your home. A precise measuring process ensures that you order the correct materials so installation can proceed smoothly and according to schedule. If the measurements you take are incorrect, you'll most likely end up wasting money and time on materials that don’t fit your roof and need to be re-ordered. Not only that, but rushing the measuring process can also lead to potential safety issues stemming from problems like improperly fitted panels. By measuring your roof precisely before you start, you can avoid headaches like water leaks later down the line.
When you hire Tri County Metals to supply the materials for your new roof, we’ll begin with an estimate. Our CAD specialists will use sketches or satellite imagery to create detailed designs. This allows us to create the most accurate estimate possible and ensures you receive roofing materials that are measured and cut exactly right the first time.
What Are the Advantages of Metal Roofing?
Metal roofing is more popular than ever among homeowners looking for ways to upgrade their homes. Metal roofing offers a variety of advantages that makes it a great choice for the majority of homeowners.
Durability
One of the most attractive benefits of metal roofing is its impressive durability. Metal roofs are incredibly tough and can withstand extreme weather conditions, such as hail, wind, and snow. They are also resistant to fire and rot, making them ideal for homes in areas prone to natural disasters or extreme weather events. Additionally, metal roofs require little maintenance over their lifetime, meaning you won’t have to worry about costly repairs or replacements down the line.
Cost-effectiveness
Another benefit of metal roofing is its cost-effectiveness. Metal roofs can be more expensive than traditional asphalt shingle roofs up front, but they typically last much longer and need to be repaired less frequently, which means you'll likely pay less in the long run.
Energy Efficiency
In addition, metal roofs can help reduce energy costs by reflecting heat away from your home during the summer months and helping keep it warm during the winter months. This means you can save money on your energy bills each month while also enjoying a comfortable temperature inside your home all year round.
Home Value
Metal roofing may also add value to your home when it comes time to sell or refinance it. Potential buyers are often drawn to homes with metal roofs since they know they won’t have to worry about costly repairs or replacements down the line like they would with other materials like asphalt shingles or wood shakes. This means you could potentially get more money for your home when it comes time to sell due to its improved value.
Aesthetic Appeal
Finally, metal roofing offers aesthetic appeal that's hard to beat with other materials like asphalt shingles or wood shakes. Metal roofs come in a variety of colors and styles, allowing you to customize the look of your home while still enjoying benefits such as durability, cost savings, added value, and energy efficiency.
Get Precise Metal Roofing Measurements From Tri County Metals
Gaining all these benefits of a new metal roof starts with high-quality roof measurements. You can use the steps in this article to draw up your own measurements, or you can save time and make sure the job gets done exactly right by calling Tri County Metals. Our CAD technicians can use specialized software to take extremely accurate measurements and deliver metal roofing materials that match exactly what your home needs. Get in touch with us today!