Mastering Roof Inspections: Metal Roofs, Part 8

by Kenton Shepard and Nick Gromicko, CMI®

  

  

The purpose of the series “Mastering Roof Inspections” is to teach home inspectors, as well as insurance and roofing professionals, how to recognize proper and improper conditions while inspecting steep-slope, residential roofs. This series covers roof framing, roofing materials, the attic, and the conditions that affect the roofing materials and components, including wind and hail. 

   

FASTENING METHODS FOR METAL PANEL ROOFS
 

There are two types of fastening systems for metal panel roofs:  through-fastening and concealed clips.

Through-Fastening 

Through-fastening systems use fasteners that penetrate the metal and have gaskets designed to keep the penetration from leaking. Large-head screws with neoprene washers are the most common type.

Fasteners are often exposed and are typically driven through areas where panels overlap and/or through other locations specified by the manufacturer.

Thermal expansion and contraction of the metal roofing, and possibly movement of the substrate, can cause through-fasteners to loosen or back out over time. Metal roofing with loose or missing fasteners will suffer reduced wind resistance and possible moisture intrusion.  These should be mentioned in your report.

Because through-fasteners don’t allow metal to freely expand and contract, they may cause oil-canning, especially in roofs with larger panels.


Clip Fastening

Clip-fastening systems use clips that fasten directly to the roof deck.  They are incorporated into the panels at the seams, which leaves the clip concealed from view.  They allow for expansion and contraction of the panels.  Clips are usually found on more expensive roofing systems.  

The illustrations below show a variety of metal seams used in the roofing industry.

 

 

 

 

 

 
Common Installation Mistakes

A number of fastener-related problems may cause leaks or corrosion. Fasteners may be:

  • over-driven;
  • under-driven;
  • driven in crooked or at an angle;
  • missing;
  • protruding;
  • poorly anchored.  Fasteners that are driven into gaps between panels or plywood panels with voids may have inadequate withdrawal strength; and
  • the wrong type.  Fasteners not designed for use with metal roofing can be a problem due to galvanic corrosion, inadequate withdrawal strength, or failure to allow for thermal expansion and contraction of metal panels.

Walking Metal Panel Roofs

Metal roofs can be slippery when they’re dusty or wet. Stay off of them if these conditions exist. Soft-soled shoes or roof boots can help you maintain traction.

Where you should step depends on the type of roofing installed and the underlying structure. If you step where you see screws, you should be stepping on the support structure; that’s the theory, anyway. It’s a good idea to determine what the support structure is before you walk the roof. That way, you help minimize unpleasant surprises.
 
 

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Learn how to master a roof inspection from beginning to end by reading the entire InterNACHI series: Mastering Roof Inspections.  

 

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