Standing Seam Metal Roofing: Function Meets Beauty
by Marcy Marro | June 1, 2022 12:00 am
Photo: Max Touhey, courtesy of New York Public Library
Designers are given more freedom to be creative as metal panels can be tapered and curved to fit complex building designs and can be perforated for mechanical screens. There are multiple reasons for this increase in popularity including the wide variety of available materials and finishes, as well as the cost-effective performance of a well-engineered system.
What is a standing seam metal roofing system?
A standing seam metal roofing system includes panels, clips, trim and accessories like fasteners, foam closures and rainware, all custom fit to project measurements.
Most standing seam metal roofing systems can be used for both roof and wall applications. Typical concealed fastener metal panel systems feature panels with vertical legs (standing seam) and a broad pan area between the legs that usually features a plateau or stiffening ribs to reduce oil canning. Architectural standing seam roofing panels can be snapped together but most high-performance structural systems are mechanically seamed. Structural systems can be used over open purlins with acceptable spans. These systems all feature concealed clips that eliminate any through-fastening from the outside which can lead to eventual water intrusion and damage. When installed by an approved and trained contractor, most manufacturers offer watertight warranties for approved applications, and most systems come with a standard finish warranty.
How customizable is this product? What are the metal options?
The variety of choices and options offered for customers looking to use SSMR is one of the main selling points of this product. Architects have virtually limitless design options as metal panels can be shaped into various sections; from curved to concave, tapered, domed and even long spans. Architects can specify material thickness, width, length and profile. These systems also come in a variety of colors, finishes and material options typically including steel, aluminum, copper, zinc and stainless steel.
SSMR gained an increasing 13% market cap in residential buildings in 2021 due in part to the variety of metals and finishes offered. Metals like Galvalume, aluminum, zinc and copper, have become widely popular as a replacement for many roofing alternatives as it offers a more durable system while adding to the clean aesthetic of any building. Standing seam metal roofing systems can also be outfitted with a number of rooftop attachments like solar panels, lightning protection, snow guards and other accessories that are securely mounted to the seams.
Explain the concealed clip and its benefits …
The clips in a SSMR system are first attached to the substrate and then the panels are either snapped in place or mechanically seamed to the clips. This feature allows for unrestricted panel movement and thermal movement, which contributes to a longer system lifetime and high-quality performance. Concealed clips also eliminate any through-fastening which usually allows water to eventually penetrate and damage insulation and other building materials inside of the structure. Most manufacturers will offer a wind-uplift analysis to determine the proper clip spacing that will allow the system to withstand project specific wind loads. Some high-performance structural systems are tested to withstand wind speeds of over 250 mph and are approved for use on community safe rooms for tornadoes and hurricanes.
What makes a SSMR system cost-effective and sustainable?
High-performance standing seam metal roofing systems can last up to three times as long as traditional roofing systems. For example, a typical asphalt shingle roof may last 35 years while a SSMR system lifetime may exceed 50 years and even 75 years with proper maintenance. These systems are also completely recyclable at the end of the materials lifespan which in addition to material selection can reduce the carbon footprint of your building. On top of this, most high-performance systems are available in wide panel modules that help to reduce labor costs and installation time. Unlike other roofing products, SSMR systems are also highly resistant to fire which equates to a safer choice to protect occupants and valuable assets.
In conclusion
For designers looking for the freedom to create beautiful unique structures with a roofing system that is engineered to be structurally sound, sustainable and energy efficient—the data shows that standing seam metal roofing is the way to go.
Tarek Droubi is an application engineer/AWB at IMETCO, Norcross, Ga. To learn more, visit www.imetco.com[1].
- www.imetco.com: http://www.imetco.com
Source URL: https://www.metalarchitecture.com/articles/standing-seam-metal-roofing-function-meets-beauty/