The fabrication process for a standing seam metal roofing system can be done in two different ways, depending on your individual needs and preferences. One option is to have the panels made in a factory and the other is to have them made on-site.
The natural properties of a metal roof are very impressive. Metal panels are durable and long lasting, as well as being virtually maintenance free. They offer tons of remodeling benefits, like the ability to install over almost any type of existing roof system, and the wide range of color and style options that can be used to match any style of home.
Standing seam metal roofing has become popular in parts of the country that experience harsh weather conditions, such as the Deep South, where conditions are hot and humid for many months of the year. They are also admired by northerners for their ability to withstand heavy snow and wind loads.
Some of the other significant value advantages are the fire resistant properties and the universal style that allows it to match almost any home design. Metal roofing offers what many believe to be the perfect styles for luxury homes, as well as lower value homes such as mobile homes. The most popular of all styles is the standing seam metal roof, which has been used around the world on almost every type of home imaginable.
A standing seam roof is constructed of many interlocking panels that run vertically from the roof ridge (the top of the roof) to the eave. The interlocking seam where two panels meet is raised above the flat surface of the roof, allowing water to run off without showing between the panels.
Standing seam roofs come in many shapes and sizes. In some cases, vertical panels are cut to size in a factory and shipped to the jobsite. Metal panels can also be made on the job using portable metal fabrication equipment. Other options include standing seam “shingles” that arrive prepackaged (usually in three to five foot lengths) and are installed in a staggered pattern for visual effect.
Two types of methods are commonly used to secure the panels to the roof sheathing. Hidden fasteners are attached to the raised portion of each panel, then covered by the next adjoining panel during installation. The second (and less expensive) method uses exposed fasteners that are driven through each metal panel in the headliner.
We can now discuss how standing seam metal roofs are constructed. Suppose the metal roof panels will be formed on the job site rather than in a metal fabricator shop or factory.
Metal ceiling panels are individually manufactured to suit the required length. This reduces waste on the jobsite as long and short panels can be cut to length. To form the interlocking panels, a metal fabrication machine called a brake is used to shape the metal into various designs.
A sharp-toothed hydraulic shear cuts each panel to the proper length without damaging the panel ends. Although the ceiling panels require some trimming by hand, it only takes a few minutes to cut each one and prepare it for installation.
Each part of the metal roof system is installed in a certain order that creates a waterproof seal. First, roofing paper is installed over the roof covering. Next, roof valleys (formed where two roof sections meet at an angle) are covered. A preformed ridge cap covers the peak of the roof. Each vertical roof panel is fastened and attached to the ridge vent for a uniform appearance.
Each roof panel that extends from the ridge to the eave folds neatly into the ridge vent. Clips secure each panel to the headliner. Using hidden fasteners creates a more polished look once the job is complete. The next adjoining panel will cover the clips that secure each panel (left). Raised seams formed by panel ends are crimped together to form a watertight seal.
Adjoining ceiling panels are crimped together to cover the clips. Each panel hides the clips that secure the adjacent panel to the headliner. By completely covering the fasteners, they are not exposed to the elements, reducing the chance of water damaging the roof sheathing or structural system below.
The end results: the ridge, valleys and vertical sections come together to form a tight seal against the elements. A properly installed metal roof can last for many years with little to no maintenance.