Metal Roofing

Architectural Standing Seam

Metal roofing’s attributes are impressive. Durable and long lasting, a metal roof requires little maintenance, can be retrofitted over many existing roofing materials, is available in a wide range of colors and styles, and is fire resistant. Standing seam metal roofs, popular in areas as diverse as the hot and humid South to frigid New England, have shed their industrial roots to become an architectural statement.

A standing seam roof is constructed of many interlocking panels that run vertically from the roof’s ridge (the top of the roof) to the eave. The interlocking seam where two panels join together is raised above the roof’s flat surface, allowing water to run off without seeping between panels.

Standing seam roofs come in many shapes and sizes. In some instances, the vertical panels are cut to length at a factory and delivered to the job site. Other types are shaped and cut right on the job site using portable equipment. Other options include standing seam “shingles” that arrive prepackaged (typically 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 secured to the raised portion of each panel, and subsequently covered by the next adjoining panel during installation. The second (and less costly) method utilizes exposed fasteners that are driven through each metal panel into the roof sheathing.

Structural Standing Seam

A standing seam roof is constructed of many interlocking panels that run vertically from the roof’s ridge (the top of the roof) to the eave. The interlocking seam where two panels join together is raised above the roof’s flat surface, allowing water to run off without seeping between panels.

Standing seam roofs come in many shapes and sizes. In some instances, the vertical panels are cut to length at a factory and delivered to the job site. Other types are shaped and cut right on the job site using portable equipment. Other options include standing seam “shingles” that arrive prepackaged (typically 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 secured to the raised portion of each panel, and subsequently covered by the next adjoining panel during installation. The second (and less costly) method utilizes exposed fasteners that are driven through each metal panel into the roof sheathing

Steel shingle or standing-seam roofs last about 50 years or more depending on both the method of installation and the moisture barrier (underlayment) used and are between the cost of shingle roofs and slate roofs.

Sheet Metal Coping

Wall coping is a finish material installed at the top of a masonry wall structure. Depending on the desired function and appearance, wall coping can be made from any number of materials, including stone, concrete, or metal. Wall coping components are often known as wall caps in many parts of the world. Wall caps serve a number of functions when installed on a wall. They help to keep water out of the wall, which minimizes the risk of damage from freezing and thawing over time.

The coping also protects the top of the wall from physical impacts or damage. In many applications, wall coping is chosen primarily for its aesthetic appeal. Different types of coping can give the wall a smooth, polished appearance while helping to conceal mortar or rough stone surfaces from view.