Installation techniques vary greatly depending on the metal roof’s fastening system. For single skin roofing, there are three fastening system options: concealed, exposed and standing seam. Proper execution of the correct installation techniques helps preserve roof structure and longevity.

Exposed Fastened Metal Roof Panel Installation

Exposed-fastened panels are installed over solid substrates or open framing using many screws that are visible from the outside of the structure. Field-applied systems ensure proper fastener alignment and engagement. The spacing of these screws is dictated by:

• Substrate type
• Project design loads (up to 12” on center with patterns)
• Location on the roof (i.e. eaves, rake or ridge)

Roof slopes can vary from ½:12 minimum to 1:12 depending on product profile and building design requirements. Sidelap sealants are field-applied for all panel profiles, and using washers for weathertightness is ideal for this panel application system.

These roofing systems are low cost, easy to install and offer a wide variety of profiles for light applications, including:

• Commercial
• Industrial
• Agricultural
• Residential

Concealed Fastened Metal Roof Panel Installation

Concealed fastened metal roofing systems feature fixed fasteners hidden by either a snap-over sidelap or—in some cases—a  snap-on batten cap. Installed directly over solid substrates with a waterproof membrane, they require a minimal number of fasteners per panel sidelap or clip. Special tooling is not necessary to snap laps or engage the panel battens.

These panels are typically 16” or less in width and ideal for roofs that have a 3:12 or greater slope. In addition, installation of these panels over conventional or wood-framed structures is possible, making them suitable for the following industries:

• commercial
• architectural
• residential

Standing Seam Metal Roof Panel Installation

Standing seam metal roof panels require application to solid substrates or open framing with concealed mechanical clips available in a variety of stand-off heights. These clips allow space for various insulation thicknesses, depending on the clip height. The design of most clips allows the roof panel to expand or contract independently of the substrate. This feature contributes to the panel durability and longevity as they can adapt to the thermal movement of large roof surfaces.

These panels are ideal for use in the following industries:

• heavy commercial
• industrial
• architectural
• residential

During installation, it’s important to pay close attention to proper panel alignment and engagement as well as substrate squareness and modularity of the install.  As a result, proper panel seaming is possible via Snap Lok or Mechanical Seaming. Either seaming method, depending on the panel profile, will encompass the panel clip into the panel seam, contributing to the roof system’s ability to expand and contract.

All sidelap sealants for this type of roofing system are factory-installed. In addition, most roof slope applications are ¼:12 and ½:12, but some require 3:12 or greater depending on profile and seam type.

Learn More About Metal Roof Installation Techniques

For more information about these installation techniques, view our in-depth installation materials. Also, feel free to contact our knowledgeable team with any additional metal roof installation questions.