Metal Roofing Retrofit and Recover Systems

Metal roof retrofit and recover solutions that extend service life, improve energy performance, and reduce disruption—without tear-off.

When an existing roof reaches the end of its service life, full tear-off isn’t always necessary. McElroy Metal’s retrofit and recover systems install directly over the existing roof to deliver long-term performance, improved energy efficiency, and minimal disruption to building operations. Engineered framing and panel solutions correct slope, improve drainage, and create a durable attachment surface for high-performance metal roofing. Whether the existing system is metal, shingle, or low-slope, our retrofit and recover options extend roof life, reduce life-cycle costs, and upgrade overall building value.

What is Retrofit and Recover?

What Is Retrofit & Recover?

Retrofit and recover systems allow a new metal roof to be installed directly over an existing roof—without the cost, disruption, or landfill impact of a full tear-off. Using engineered framing components, clips, and substructural members, these systems create a new, code-compliant roof plane that improves drainage, adds ventilation, and provides a solid attachment point for the new metal roof. Retrofit and recover solutions are widely used to extend the life of aging buildings, improve energy efficiency, and deliver long-term weather protection without interrupting daily operations.

Advantages of Retrofit & Recover vs. Tear-Off

  1. Eliminates tear-off, reducing project cost and avoiding demolition and disposal.

  2. Minimizes disruption, allowing buildings to remain operational during installation.

  3. Improves performance with added slope, drainage, and energy efficiency options.

  4. Reduces risk by keeping the existing roof in place throughout construction.

  5. Enhances safety by eliminating tear-off hazards and minimizing debris.

  6. Speeds installation compared to full roof replacement.

  7. Delivers long-term durability and serviceability with high-performance metal systems.

  8. Engineered support ensures proper structural performance and load design.

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Retrofit & Recover Common Applications

  • Commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings requiring performance upgrades without full tear-off.

  • Manufacturing plants, warehouses, retail centers, schools, and municipal buildings with aging metal, membrane, or built-up roofs.

  • Low-slope or flat roofs needing improved drainage and long-term performance.

  • Facilities seeking enhanced ventilation, energy efficiency, or higher wind uplift performance.

  • Occupied buildings where maintaining operations, reducing noise, and improving jobsite safety are critical.

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Why Choose McElroy Metal

  • No Tear-Off, No Downtime: Keep your existing roof in place—save time, labor, and landfill costs.

  • Decades of Durability: Recover systems routinely deliver 50–60 years of performance.

  • Energy Efficiency & Sustainability: Options like Above-Sheathing Ventilation (ASV) improve insulation and reduce energy consumption.

  • Engineered Solutions: In-house engineering ensures every project meets structural and environmental requirements.

  • Employee-Owned Commitment: As an employee-owned company, we take pride in every system we produce—from our hands to your project.

Retrofit and Recover Videos

Recover and Retrofit Systems

McElroy Metal offers a full range of recover and retrofit systems designed to address the unique challenges of aging roofs, including low-slope drainage problems, brittle shingles, and outdated metal panel profiles.

Recover and Retrofit Systems

McElroy Metal offers a full range of recover and retrofit systems designed to address the unique challenges of aging roofs, including low-slope drainage problems, brittle shingles, and outdated metal panel profiles.

A frameless recover solution that installs a new symmetrical 238T roof directly over existing metal panels. Offers individual panel replaceability, high uplift ratings, and 50–60 years of performance—without disrupting building operations.

A frameless recover solution that installs a new symmetrical 238T roof directly over existing metal panels. Offers individual panel replaceability, high uplift ratings, and 50–60 years of performance—without disrupting building operations.

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Find a Distributor / Contractor Near You

Whether you’re building a new home or planning renovations, a metal roof can deliver long-term cost savings and comfort. To explore your options and find the product that meets your aesthetic and budgetary needs, contact a McElroy Metal distributor or contractor in your area today. We can’t wait to help make your dream home a reality.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The questions below address common considerations and help guide product selection for your project.

What is a retrofit or recover roof system?
A retrofit or recover system installs a new metal roof over an existing roof, using engineered sub-framing to create proper slope, ventilation paths, and attachment points without a full tear-off.
When should a building owner consider retrofit instead of replacement?
Retrofit systems are ideal when the existing roof is aging, leaking, or underperforming but still structurally sound. They eliminate tear-off costs, reduce landfill waste, and minimize building downtime.
Are retrofit metal roofs compatible with flat or low-slope structures?
Yes. Many retrofit systems are specifically engineered to create a positive slope over flat or low-slope roofs, improving drainage and long-term performance.
Can a retrofit system improve energy efficiency?
Yes. Retrofit systems often incorporate ventilation spaces, clip systems, or insulation layers that can significantly improve thermal performance and reduce energy costs.
Is structural engineering required for a retrofit project?
Engineering is strongly recommended to verify load paths, meet code requirements, and ensure the existing roof and supports can handle the retrofit framing and new metal roof system.
Can a retrofit or recover system be installed over any existing roofing material?
Most can be installed over single-ply, BUR, modified bitumen, metal, and some foam systems. The existing roof must be inspected to ensure it’s dry, stable, and structurally sound.