Yes, an underlayment is required for metal roofs, especially when installed over an indoor residential living space. This underlayment acts as a protective barrier between the metal roofing and the roof deck. Common materials include tar, asphalt felt, or woven synthetic polymers. Depending on local building codes, existing shingles in good condition may also suffice. A quality underlayment is crucial as it provides protection against water intrusion, improves energy efficiency through insulation, helps absorb sound, and ultimately extends the lifespan of your roof.

Copper roof strips can last for 20 to 30 years or more if properly installed—in many cases, they may outlast your roof. Inspect your roof annually to ensure copper roof strips remain properly adhered and undamaged, and repair any loose or lifted strips. With very little upkeep, copper roof strips can protect your roof for decades to come.

The best kind of tarp for a roof is one that will stand up to the elements, weather, and sun. Viny roof tarps are known for their durability and resistance to water, tears, and mold—making these tarps a good choice for use in winter conditions and the summer sun. Polyethylene tarps are also quite durable and waterproof.

There should be small gaps between your roof and the walls of your home, and other buildings. These small gaps let building materials shift, expand, and contract with weather and other outside forces, and they prevent moisture from wicking down walls from roofing and gutter systems. Without these strategic gaps, your home’s exterior and its finishes can sustain water damage, decay, peel, delaminate, and crack. However, there is a fine line between a smart gap and a problematic gap—all  gaps should be small, intentional, and covered or filled in with foam insulation to prevent pests from using them as access points.