Standing seam metal roofing is defined as a concealed fastener metal panel system that features vertical legs and a broad, flat area between the two legs. It’s also described as having raised seams, or vertical legs, that rise above the level of the panel’s flat area. Standing seam systems have mechanically locking fasteners that are hidden, whether the panel is attached to the roof deck using a clip or is directly fastened to the deck under the vertical leg utilizing a fastener flange. Standing seam roofing is considered a higher quality system that is commonly used on architectural and commercial buildings.
Advantages of Standing Seam Metal Roofing
NO EXPOSED FASTENERS
Hidden fasteners – Easily one of the most significant benefits of standing seam metal roofing is that no fasteners are visible on the standing seam metal panel, which means they aren’t exposed to UV, moisture, wind, and other elements that can cause a fastener to wear or fail over time. Also, standing seam systems don’t put holes in the panels that are protecting your structure.
The best roofing companies know this is a major plus, as holes in the panels can cause water leaks as well as hot and cold air leaks and impact your home’s energy efficiency. Plus, some people see fastener heads as unsightly, which is why using a standing seam system to hide them is common.
ALLOWS FOR THERMAL MOVEMENT
When you restrict the expansion and contraction needed for proper thermal movement of a metal panel, you can run into problems, such as oil canning, fastener withdrawal, increased noise, and more. In most types of standing seam metal roofs, panels generally aren’t double pinned, meaning they can expand and contract better. This is especially true if slider/expansion clips are installed or if it’s a snap-lock system where the metal can move freely with a clip.
LONGEVITY & LIFECYCLE
Standing seam metal roofing panels last significantly longer and requires less maintenance, especially when compared to other roofing types, such as asphalt shingles or concrete tiles. Since fasteners don’t penetrate the surface of the standing seam panels, regular maintenance to check for withdrawing, loose, or damaged fasteners is even less frequent. Standing seam metal roof systems typically offer a PVDF paint system, which will increase the lifespan and improve the appearance of your roof.
ENGINEERED SYSTEMS TESTED TO PERFORM TO HIGH STANDARDS
Engineered standing seam metal roof systems are tested to the high standards set forth by industry leaders, including ASTM, UL, and FM Approvals. Requests for engineered construction materials are becoming more and more popular, especially with commercial structures in hurricane and high-wind zones. Engineered standing seam metal roofing systems typically adhere to testing standards for wind uplift, air leakage, water penetration, combustion/fire resistance, and impact resistance in commercial and residential applications.
Disadvantages of Standing Seam Metal Roofing
HIGHER COST
One of the most significant drawbacks to standing seam metal roofing is how much installing standing seam metal roof panels costs. Installing a standing seam metal roofing system can be more expensive when compared to other types of metal roofing systems, especially exposed fastener systems. However, it’s not always the highest price, as metal shingles and other stamped metal materials tend to come in at a higher price, even though stamped materials are often made from 26 gauge or thinner substrates.
LABOR-INTENSIVE INSTALLATION PROCESS
For exposed fastener systems, the snap-lock panels offer a relatively simple process of putting the material on the roof deck and nailing/screwing it down. We are more than happy to offer this option, however, it comes down to what the client is looking for aesthetically and what best fits their budget. When it comes to standing seam roofs, it’s much more complex and labor-intensive, and may include:
- Forming the metal panels using portable (on-site) roll forming machine or buying from regional manufacturers
- Correctly spacing the clips on the panel legs and fastening each one down
- For snap-lock systems: Aligning the panels and snapping the legs together
- For mechanically seamed systems: Aligning the panels and hand-seaming or mechanically seaming the panel legs together
- Making any necessary slits in the metal to account for roof plans, geometry, and flashing areas
Contact McKinnis Roofing today to learn more about Omaha standing seam metal roofing system installation and the benefits of metal roofing for your home!
Mckinnis Roofing Omaha, Lincoln & Surrounding areas
McKinnis Roofing & Sheet Metal has been providing quality roofing services in the greater metro Omaha, Lincoln, and Blair NE area since 1981, offering 24/7 emergency service and repair.
Contact us today to speak with a qualified Omaha roofing professional. As Omaha’s best roofing company, we have the equipment and tools for any residential or commercial standing seam metal roofing project. Click HERE to see some of our favorite projects!