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Standing Seam Metal Roofing

Standing Seam Metal Roofing Snapshot

Metal roofing offers durability and visual appeal to commercial buildings. There are many categories of metal panels. The term “standing seam” is often used as a generic description for a class of metal roof seams. The name standing seam is derived from the fact that the seams are joined together above the panel flats. There are not exposed fasteners in standing seam roof systems. Continuous panels run from the ridge of the roof all the way down to the eaves. Between the panels are seams connected by fasteners which are raised above the level of the metal roofing. 

Details

Standing seam metal panel roof systems are installed over a large variety of substrates. There are two general categories of substrates: continuous or closely spaced decking that provides solid support for the metal roof panel, and the other is composed of spaced structural supports (such as purlins) where the metal panels must span between supports.

  • Seam Fasteners: These seam fasteners might be anywhere from 0.5″ to 1.5″ high. Because these fasteners are concealed, you only see a smooth continuous ridge extending from top to bottom.
  • Pre-Formed vs. Site-Formed: Roof panels can come either pre-formed or site-formed. Pre-formed panels are created in an off-site factory. Site-formed panels are created from rolls of metal that are run through mobile forming machines which crimp the metal into rigid panels.
  • Composition and Width of Panels: 12 to 19 inches wide, panels are usually made either of Galvalume-coated steel or aluminum.
  • Advantages

High Seams: One great advantage of standing seam metal roofs is contained in the name itself: seams, the weak point in any roof and a potential entry point for moisture, are raised above the level of the roofing panel. You can’t say this for composition shingles.

Fewer Seams: Because the metal panels run unhindered from the top to the bottom of the roof, not only are there no horizontal seams but in total the roof has a far fewer number of seams.

Tough: Yes, metal is tough–very tough–but it’s not impervious to all hazards. The sheet metal in this type of roofing can be penetrated by heavy falling limbs or dented by a severe hailstorm.

Long-Lasting: With proper maintenance, you can expect your metal roof to last between 30 and 50 years.

“Cool Roof”: All metal roofing in general is considered a “cool roof” by the US Environmental Protection Agency. This is because metal roofing can be painted any color, including colors on the lighter end of the spectrum which will prevent solar heat gain.

Benefits