Metal Roofing Materials Checklist for 2026: Everything You Need to Order for a Complete System
Ordering metal roofing is not hard, but ordering it correctly is what separates a clean, leak-resistant install from a project full of delays, change orders, and leftover material.
Top Tier Metals is supply-only, which means your success depends on getting the bill of materials right up front. If you want a second set of expert eyes before you place an order, start here:
Schedule a free metal roofing consultation and material takeoff review
Below is a practical, field-ready checklist you can use in 2026 to order a complete metal roofing system, whether you are choosing metal shingles, metal shake, metal tile, or metal panels.
Step 1: Confirm which metal roof system you are ordering
Your materials list changes depending on the system.
- Metal shingles: Shop premium metal shingle roofing systems
- Metal shake: Shop premium metal shake roofing systems
- Metal tile: Shop premium metal tile roofing systems
- Metal panels: Shop metal panel roofing systems
- Not sure yet: Browse all metal roofing options in one place
If you are deciding between brands, start here:
Step 2: Use a measurement method that supports an accurate order
If you already have a roof report, plans, or a contractor takeoff, you can use that. If not, use this guide before you build your bill of materials:
How to measure a roof for metal roofing and avoid ordering mistakes
Minimum inputs you should have before ordering:
- Total squares or total roof area
- Roof pitch
- Ridge length, hip length, valley length
- Eave length and rake length
- Count and type of penetrations (pipes, chimneys, skylights)
- Roof complexity (number of facets, dormers, cut-up areas)
- Your climate risk (hail, salt air, heavy snow)
Step 3: The complete metal roofing materials checklist
A) Roof deck and substrate readiness
Even as a supply-only purchase, you should confirm the deck and assembly are compatible.
- Deck condition: replace rotten decking and confirm fastening schedule
- Drip edge and eave conditions: ensure straight lines and consistent overhang
- Ventilation plan: soffit intake and ridge or roof exhaust locations
If penetrations are part of the job, read this before the first cut:
How to add skylights, vents, or chimneys to a metal roof without leaks
B) Underlayment and water protection layers
Underlayment is not an afterthought. It is one of the most common points of failure on metal roofs when the wrong product is used for the slope, temperature, and system type.
- Synthetic underlayment (common baseline)
- Ice and water shield for eaves, valleys, and high-risk leak zones
- High-temp underlayment for higher-heat assemblies and certain profiles
Use this to pick the right stack:
Best underlayment options for metal roofing and when each one matters
C) The roofing panels or profiles you are actually ordering
This is the obvious part, but ordering mistakes still happen here.
- Profile and system type (panel vs shingle vs shake vs tile)
- Color selection and finish type
- Matching accessory color requirements
- Waste factor for complexity (simple roofs need less, cut-up roofs need more)
If you want a curated system recommendation, use:
Get a free consultation for system selection and a complete materials list
D) Starter components, eaves, rakes, ridges, and hips
This is where incomplete orders usually fail.
Common components to include:
- Drip edge at eaves
- Rake trim or gable trim
- Ridge cap or ridge system components
- Hip cap components for hip roofs
- Valley flashing (open valley or system-specific)
- Sidewall and headwall flashing where roof meets walls
- Transition flashing where roof planes change
If you want a practical overview of trim and accessory choices:
Accessories and trim options that improve performance and curb appeal
E) Closures, sealants, and tapes that prevent wind-driven water issues
These are small items that cause big problems if skipped.
- Foam closures at ridges, rakes, and eaves where needed
- Butyl tape for laps and flashing edges
- Compatible sealant for detailing (avoid mismatched products that fail)
F) Fasteners, clips, and attachment hardware
Your system dictates what you need.
- Exposed-fastener systems: gasketed screws, proper length, correct spacing
- Concealed-fastener shingles or stone-coated systems: system-approved fasteners
- Standing seam style systems: clips and attachment details that allow expansion where required
Fasteners and wrong attachment practices can also create warranty issues. Before you install, review:
Metal roofing warranties explained, what voids coverage, and how to avoid it
G) Roof penetrations and their flashing kits
Every penetration needs a plan, not just a hole.
- Pipe boots sized to each penetration
- Skylight flashing approach (curb-mounted vs deck-mounted)
- Chimney flashing detail and cricket planning where required
Reference guide:
Leak-free penetrations for metal roofs
H) Snow, water, and safety planning accessories
Depending on your climate and entryways, these can shift from optional to essential.
- Snow retention planning for walkways, driveways, and patios
- Gutter and downspout coordination
- Ladder tie-off and roof safety considerations during install
I) Delivery, staging, and inspection readiness
Supply-only projects fail when the delivery arrives and nobody is ready.
Before ordering, confirm:
- Delivery access for a long pallet or bundled materials
- Staging area that stays dry and flat
- Who will inspect and sign for the shipment
Shipping timelines and expectations:
Top Tier Metals shipping policy, processing and delivery timelines
Step 4: The three most common ordering mistakes to avoid
1) Ordering panels but forgetting the system that keeps water out
Trim, closures, flashing, and underlayment are the leak-prevention system.
2) Underestimating complexity waste on cut-up roofs
Dormers, valleys, and multiple facets increase offcuts and require more accessory detail.
3) Not planning penetrations up front
The cleanest metal roofs are planned before cutting, not patched after.
Step 5: A conversion-ready next step that saves money and prevents delays
If you want the fastest way to confirm your order is complete, do this before checkout:
Schedule a free metal roofing consultation and get a complete materials list
If you are ready to browse systems first:
Shop all premium metal roofing options from Top Tier Metals
And if you want to see real project results before deciding:
Frequently asked questions
Do I need special materials for coastal or salt-air environments
Yes, material selection and detailing matter. Start here:
How metal roofing performs in coastal and salt-air environments
Can I install a metal roof over existing shingles
Sometimes, but it depends on code, ventilation, and roof condition:
Metal roof over shingles guide with code and best practices
Where can I get quick answers on ordering and installation basics
Start here:
Top Tier Metals FAQs for ordering, timelines, and common questions
