A metal roof is made up of many parts that are assembled to make a roof system. Even though the panels make up the majority of a metal roof, each part serves a distinct purpose to keep your house leak-free.
But there are more reasons why you should be aware of metal roofing components than just understanding what they are and how they work. To know exactly what you are paying for, you should also make sure that all of them are covered in your metal roof estimate.
What then constitutes a metal roof system’s components?
The Shumaker Roofing team has been assisting homeowners with their roofing project knowledge for more than 70 years. I’ll now break down the essential components of a metal roof system.
Just be informed that these parts are only meant to be used with standing seam metal roofs, which is the recommended method for residential metal roofing. Let’s get to the 7 main parts of a metal roof.
1. Roof Decking
Roof decking, sometimes referred to as sheathing, serves as a roof system’s base. The remainder of your metal roof and its components are fitted on top of these timber boards (plywood, OSB, or plank).
It might not be necessary for you to replace your roof decking while getting a metal roof replacement. However, before they can start installing your metal roof, your roofing contractor must replace any defective decking.
Unfortunately, your roofing contractor will not be able to determine the precise amount of decking that needs replacement until they have removed your old roof.
2. Lock Strip
In order to prevent your metal roof panels from rising in a high wind, lock strips secure them to the borders of your roof. They are mounted at the rakes (the sloping side of your roof) and eaves (the bottom edge of your roof at the gutter line).
The color and gauge of the lock strips will match those of the metal roof panels. The lock strips are sprayed with Kynar 500, just like steel metal panels.
The painted finish prevents fading of the color you pick and shields your lock strips from the weather.
3. Underlayment of High-heat Ice and Water Shield
Over roof decking, roof underlayment is a synthetic substance or felt (15 lb or 30 lb) that offers extra protection. High-heat ice and water shields will be the underlayment for a metal roof.
The final layer of protection for your roof decking is the high-heat ice and water shield on your metal roof. Just be aware that the lock strip at the eaves needs to be covered by ice and water protection.
Installing the lock strip over the underlayment causes the fascia board beneath the lock strip to gradually rot out as a result of humidity running down it under the ribs. I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to place the underlayment over the lock strip on your metal roof.
4. Metal Panels
The majority of your metal roof system is composed of metal panels. Lock strips and clips at the ribs secure standing seam metal panels to the roof deck, preventing any holes from nails or other fasteners.
Depending on the length of the metal panel, the ribs (standing seams) are typically spaced 12 to 24 inches apart. The metal panels can move freely back and forth during thermal expansion since the ribs are linked together at the seam.
The most popular kind of metal panels is Kynar 500-finished, 24 gauge pre-finished steel. It is possible to select a different gauge and a variety of colors, though.
5. Clips
Clips, which are fasteners, lock your metal panels together. You position these clips on the vertical portion of the seam every 12 to 24 inches.
Two gimlet screws fasten these clips to the panel’s vertical portion. After fitting, the next panel clamps into the clip, attaching it to the previous panel.
With the help of these clips, the panels can move up and down your high-heat ice and water shield underlayment without damaging it.
6. Z bar
A z bar, shaped like a “Z” and standing an eighth of an inch taller than the ribs on the metal panels, is a bent piece of metal flashing. Installers add this after mounting the metal panels to fill the spaces between the ribs and the ridge.
In the event that water seeps through the rib gaps at the crest of your roof, this shields the panels. The complete metal roof is prepared to lock in at the ridge capping once the z-bars are put in place.
7. Transition Metal or Ridge Capping
Ridge capping is put in place at a roof’s apex, where two slopes converge. It will be the same type and color as your metal panels, just as every other metal component.
Ridge capping is not necessary if the metal panels are going from a low-slope roof to a higher slope. Instead, you’ll require transition metal. In order to guarantee a straight plane, the transition metal will descend the roof and extend six inches before locking onto the Z bar.
Once you place your transition metal or ridge capping and fully fasten your metal panels, you will have a new standing seam metal roof.
Is metal roofing the right fit for you?
You now understand the purpose of the seven major components of a metal roof. Even if this information is excellent, there is still a lot more to know about metal roofing.
Studying the benefits and drawbacks of metal roofing is the greatest method to advance your knowledge in this area. For this reason, I broke down the key benefits and drawbacks of getting a metal roof for your house in a different post.
Since 1946, the team at Shumaker Roofing has offered residents in Maryland and the surrounding communities premium metal roof replacements. We guarantee that the metal roof we install will last for many years to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding the seven main components of a metal roof is essential for anyone considering this durable and efficient roofing option. Each component plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and functionality of the entire system, from the foundational roof decking to the protective ridge capping. Knowing what these parts are and how they work together helps you make informed decisions about your roofing investments and ensures that you’re well-prepared to maintain your roof’s condition over its lifespan. If you’re looking for a roofing solution that offers longevity and performance, a well-constructed metal roof could be the ideal choice for your home.
FAQs: Understanding the Components of a Metal Roof
1. What is the purpose of roof decking in a metal roof system?
Roof decking, or sheathing, provides the structural base for the metal roof. It supports all upper layers of the roof system. It’s crucial to assess and possibly replace damaged decking before installing a new metal roof to ensure longevity and performance.
2. How do lock strips work, and why are they important?
Lock strips are essential for securing the edges of metal panels against high winds, preventing them from lifting. They are installed along the roof’s eaves and rakes and play a critical role in enhancing the overall wind resistance of the roof.
3. What is the significance of using high-heat ice and water shields as underlayments for metal roofs?
This type of underlayment provides an additional layer of protection against water and ice damming, which is particularly important in climates with extreme weather conditions. It also withstands higher temperatures, which is crucial under metal roofs that can conduct more heat.
4. Can you explain the function of clips in a metal roof installation?
Clips securely attach metal panels to the roof deck without puncturing the panel itself. This method allows for thermal expansion and contraction of the panels, maintaining the integrity of the roof over time.
5. What are Z bars and ridge capping, and how do they protect a metal roof?
Z bars are metal flashings that fit over the ribs of metal panels to prevent water ingress. Especially at the ridge where two slopes meet. Then, apply ridge capping over the Z bars to create a watertight seal at the roof’s highest point. Effectively shielding the interior from moisture and leaks.
