Division 7 – Thermal & Moisture Protection
Standing Seam Metal Roofs
Standing Seam metal roofing systems, like shingled roofs are as much a finish as they are a
protective covering for your building. They can be fabricated to fit most any shape of roof from
a simple sloped roof to a barrel or dome structure.
In ALL cases, these roofing systems must be installed by a qualified contractor.
Many of these roofs are prefabricated and require considerable lead time. Issues that need to be
resolved early on in the project are;

Gauge and type of material (aluminum or steel)

Color selection by Architect and Client

A complete set of submittals, physical color samples (not from a brochure) underlayment
material, fastening schedule

Complete and approved shop drawings including flashing details, edge treatment, trim
accessories, etc.

Manufacturer specific qualification certificates for both the contractor and his installers
As with other roofing materials, the substrate condition directly affects the appearance of the
finished roof. All decking needs to be completely fastened inspected and approved by the
Testing Agency. If the deck is not perfectly flat, those imperfections will show through the new
roof.
Many of these roofs are installed over an insulation board. It needs to be properly fastened and
neatly installed as well. Over the insulation an Ice and Water Shield is applied. Most are self
adhesive and provide for a temporary Dry In of the building while the roof panels are being
installed, but it has to be installed correctly in order for it to be effective. Valleys are especially
critical.
When the roof panels are scheduled for delivery, a clean flat area close to the building should be
made available to the roofing contractor for storage of this material. The area should also be
protected enough to keep other trades from damaging it, replacing damaged panels can take
time and affect your schedule.
Be certain all adjacent work to the metal roof is complete ahead of your roofer mobilizing.
Traffic other than the roofer will damage or scratch the panels and they are not repairable. No
one else should be on that roof. Any penetrations through the panels should be closely
coordinated with the roofing contractor.
Never allow panels to be installed on a wet surface, it’s not just unsafe for your roofer to be
working on a wet surface, but the trapped moisture underneath will cause problems.
Samet Corporation | Building Structures. Building Relationships.
Division 7 – Thermal & Moisture Protection
Standing Seam Metal Roofs
Another weather issue to monitor is wind. Windblown panels are not only dangerous, but during
windy conditions, they can easily buckle while being handled and become unusable. Never allow
your roofer stage more material on the roof surface than he will install that day
Installation of these panels should be done in a neat and clean manner, protective coverings
should remain on the panel until it is in place or ready to be placed and secured. All panels need
to run straight and true to the building lines, seams neatly done and corners and trim
accessories neatly sealed and installed.
Inspect the color of trim pieces and accessories to be sure the color matches the roof panels.
Samet Corporation | Building Structures. Building Relationships.