ROOFING

Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Wind, rain, ice, and even sunlight are no match for this roof! Standing seam metal roofing has grown in popularity in recent years as one of the most durable metal roofing types available.

We’ll take a closer look at common standing seam panel profile types, along with some of the perks and drawbacks that come with standing seam metal roofing.

What is Standing Seam Metal Roofing?

Standing seam metal roofing is a concealed fastener roofing system that interlocks metal panels using clamps or clips rather than utilizing screws to hold everything together.

These roof types are easily identifiable as they feature raised seams (or vertical legs) that rise above the flat panel with no visible fasteners, often made from galvanized or galvalume steel.

Since the fasteners are hidden from the elements, standing seam metal roofs not only provide a sleek, modern look for homes but they’re also durable and weather-tight since there are no holes from nails that could potentially lead to leaks. When properly installed and maintained, a standing seam metal roof can last up to 50 years or more.

Standing Seam Panel Profile Types

One of the most important choices you’ll have with standing seam metal roofing is deciding which panel profile type is best for your home—referring to the shape and how well panels seam together. Here are four of the most common standing seam profile types:

Snap-Lock

Snap-lock profiles feature snap-lock panels meticulously designed with individually shaped edges. A male and female leg are snapped together and don’t require manual or mechanical seaming during the installation process. Snap-lock profiles are installed on the roof using heavy-duty clips attached to the seam and fastened underneath the panel.

Mechanical Lock

Like snap-lock profiles, mechanical lock profiles are designed with specifically shaped edges that align together. Once two panels are connected, a mechanical steamer alters the edges and secures the panels together. There are two types of mechanical seams:

Single lock: Features one fold of the seam (or 90 degrees) and performs best in milder environments.
Double lock: Features two folds of the seam (or 180 degrees) and performs better overall compared to single lock profiles, especially in colder weather conditions.

Batten Panel

Batten panel profiles feature two-panel legs that are roll-formed and connected to one another. A seam is created by securing a metal cap over the legs either by snapping it on or mechanically seaming the metal cap into place, depending on your specific roofing needs.

Nail Flange or Fastener Flange

Similar to snap-lock profiles, the nail flange or fastener flange profile also makes use of snap-lock panels. But rather than using heavy-duty clips to attach the panels, they’re directly fastened to the roof deck through the male leg of the panel. After the fasteners are secure, the female leg of the panel snaps onto the entire male leg—hiding the fastener head.

Advantages of Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Enhanced curb appeal aside, here are some of the benefits that come with a standing seam metal roof:

#1 Durable

Standing seam metal roofing is one of the longest-lasting roofing materials due to their concealed fastening system—allowing this type of roof to withstand severe weather conditions without leaking or rusting. When properly installed and maintained, you can expect a standing seam metal roof to last between 30 and 50 years.

#2 Eco-Friendly

Unlike traditional asphalt shingles, standing seam metal roofs are made from recycled materials like aluminum. And when the time comes to replace your roof, you can even repurpose your old roof for other projects—no need to add to the landfill with this roofing type!

Standing seam metal roofing reflects solar radiant heat from the sun, so this energy-efficient roofing option will also help keep your home cooler while driving down energy costs.

#3 Hidden Fasteners

Since fasteners are concealed on standing seam metal roofs, they’re protected against moisture, wind, UV rays, and other harsh elements that cause other roofing types to degrade more quickly. Considering that these roof types are installed with clamps or clips, the fastener system helps expand the life of your metal roof as there are no holes in the panels.

Disadvantages of Standing Seam Metal Roofing

There are also some downsides to standing seam metal roofing to consider as well:

Noisy

If you’re sensitive to noise, a standing seam metal roof may not be for you. Standing seam metal roofs can be quite noisy, especially when it’s raining outside. If your roof isn’t properly insulated, the noise from a heavy downpour can easily carry throughout your home.

Oil canning

Oil canning occurs when standing seam metal panels are fastened too tightly together—causing the flat areas of the metal panels to distort. Due to changing temperatures, metal panels need more room to expand sideways. Otherwise, they start to bubble when oil canning happens.

ROOFING

Standing Seam Metal Roofing

What is Standing Seam Metal Roofing?

Standing Seam Panel Profile Types

Snap-Lock

Mechanical Lock

Batten Panel

Nail Flange or Fastener Flange

Advantages of Standing Seam Metal Roofing

#1 Durable

#2 Eco-Friendly

#3 Hidden Fasteners

Disadvantages of Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Noisy

Oil canning

Roofing

Renovations

Service Locations

Multi-family

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