Basic Metal Roof Shingle Installation with Diamond Steel

Metal roof shingles are one of the most durable and attractive roofing options available today. They combine the strength of metal with the look of traditional shingles, giving homeowners long-lasting protection and clean curb appeal. Diamond Steel shingles are a proven choice, and their installation process is straightforward once you understand the layout.

This guide will walk you through the tools, safety practices, and step-by-step process for installing Diamond steel metal roof shingles on a basic roof.

Tools and Safety

Before installing metal roof shingles, make sure you have the right tools:

• Tin snips, aviation snips, and tinner snips

• Speed square and framing square

• Hammer, tape measure, and pencils

• Protective gloves with rubber grip

Safety Tip:

Always wear gloves when handling metal roof shingles. Thin-gauge steel is sharp, and protective gloves prevent cuts while giving you better grip.

Step 1: Installing the Eave Starter

The first step in any metal roof shingle installation is the eave starter trim.

• Position the trim flush with the gable end.

• Nail every 16 to 24 inches for secure fastening.

• Ensure it is straight, since the alignment of all shingles depends on this base.

Step 2: Setting the Gable Trim

Next, install the gable trim at the edge of the roof.

• Line it up so the bottom sits flush with the starter trim.

• Cut a small section at the corner to allow shingles to lock in smoothly.

• Nail it firmly to the fascia for stability.

Step 3: Starter Metal Roof Shingles

Starter shingles are the foundation for your first row of metal roof shingles.

• Measure 12 inches in from the gable end.

• Hook the fold of the starter shingle into the eave starter and tap it snug.

• Secure it with four nails at the top.

• Continue across the roof, spacing each starter shingle 23 ½ inches from the center of each shingle.

“When the starter metal roof shingles are aligned, the rest of the installation follows naturally. This is the only layout measurement required.”

Step 4: Installing Full Metal Roof Shingles

Now you can begin installing the full shingles.

• Each full shingle interlocks with the starter shingles below.

• Slide the shingle into place, keeping the gap consistent at ¼ to ⅜ inch.

• Nail at the top clips to hold the shingle securely.

• If you cut a piece for the gable end, keep the leftover clip and reuse it for fastening smaller sections.

Step 5: Working Up the Roof

Once the first row is complete, continue working up the roof.

• Interlock each new course with the row beneath it.

• Keep rows parallel across the bottom edges.

• Adjust as needed to maintain straight lines, since misaligned shingles can throw off the top rows.

Final Notes

Metal roof shingles, like those from Diamond Steel, are designed for strength, efficiency, and style. With a simple layout system and interlocking design, the installation process is highly repeatable once the starters are in place.

👉 Want to take your skills further? Roofing University Online provides detailed training and professional installation techniques for metal roof shingles.