Metal roofing comes hand in hand with countless benefits, from longevity to wind resistance, fire resistance, energy efficiency and much more. But if you’re going to install a metal roof, you’re going to have to make sure you have the right screws to fix the metal sheets effectively. If you’re planning on installing any of the following metal roofs, you’re going to need quality metal fasteners:
- Metal roofs on residential homes or commercial premises
- Post-frame or pre-engineered steel buildings for equestrian, farm animal storage or product storage facilities
- A garage for an RV, boat, or farm equipment
- Much more
At the end of the day, you can use the highest quality metal sheeting and building materials available. But if you use the wrong screws and fasteners, the work you produce isn’t going to perform to standard and is unlikely to last as long as you’ve advised or guaranteed. Quality fasteners help to assure your clients reap the benefits you’ve offered and that your work stands the test of time, as metal construction is generally renowned to.
How To Choose The Right Fasteners
The following top tips will help you to choose the right fasteners for each and every project you work on!
- Use the Right Fasteners – there are a wide variety of different fasteners available. Each is designed for a specific purpose. So, make sure you’re using the right fastener for the job. There are specific fasteners for metal to wood applications and different fasteners for metal to metal applications. Hi-Lo fasteners are for metal to wood applications. Tek screws are used in metal to metal applications. Also note that stainless steel screws should be used when screwing down aluminum metal roofs.
- Use a Fastener that Has a Large Washer – this will help to prevent damage to installation materials.
- Use Mechanically Galvanized Fasteners to Protect Against Corrosion and Rust – these tend to have a thin layer of zinc as a coating. Zinc is renowned for corroding ten times slower than steel.
- Use Screws With a Strong V Neck Head – this will prevent product breakage while you are working.
- Where Possible, Coordinate Screw Color to the Color of the Metal Sheeting Being Installed – this will make everything look more seamless.
- Be Organized – ordering screws well in advance of a project will ensure that you definitely have them. Avoid waiting last minute. If you have left things last minute, look for quick ship options that will still manage to get the screws to you on time.
- Only Shop With Reliable Companies – shopping with reliable suppliers, companies and brands will ensure that you receive quality screws. Sometimes, cheapest isn’t always best, especially if you’re looking to impress with your work.
Best Screws for Metal Roofing
1. Metal-to-Wood Screws
Metal-to-wood screws are designed specifically for fastening metal roofing panels to wood substrates. These screws provide a secure connection between the metal sheeting and the wood framing underneath. Hi-Lo fasteners are a popular option for this type of application, as their thread design helps provide reliable holding power in wood. When installing metal roofing over wood, it is important to select screws that are long enough to provide proper penetration without causing unnecessary damage to the materials. Using the right metal-to-wood fastener will help ensure the panels remain securely in place and perform as expected throughout the life of the roof.
2. Metal-to-Metal Screws
Metal-to-metal screws are designed for fastening metal roofing panels to metal framing or other metal components. Tek screws are commonly used for these applications because they are designed to drill through metal and create a secure connection. The correct screw size and type will depend on the thickness of the materials being joined. Using a fastener specifically designed for metal-to-metal applications helps provide the strength needed to keep roofing panels securely attached. It is also important to avoid using fasteners designed for wood when working with metal framing, as they may not provide the same level of holding power or performance required for the job.
3. Stainless Steel Screws
Stainless steel screws are an excellent choice for certain metal roofing applications, particularly when installing aluminum roofing. Using compatible fasteners is important because different metals can react with one another and potentially lead to corrosion over time. Stainless steel provides strong corrosion resistance and can help create a long-lasting connection when used correctly. These screws are particularly useful for projects where exposure to moisture, weather and other environmental conditions is a concern. When installing an aluminum metal roof, make sure you choose stainless steel screws that are appropriate for the specific roofing system. The right fastener will help protect the installation while providing the strength needed to keep the panels securely in place.
4. Mechanically Galvanized Screws
Mechanically galvanized screws are designed with a protective zinc coating that helps protect the fastener against corrosion and rust. This makes them a practical option for metal roofing projects where the screws will be exposed to moisture and changing weather conditions. Zinc is renowned for corroding at a much slower rate than steel, helping to extend the useful life of the fastener. When selecting galvanized screws, make sure they are suitable for the specific roofing materials and application you are working with. Choosing quality fasteners is important because even the highest quality metal roofing panels can experience problems if the screws holding them in place fail prematurely due to corrosion.
5. Color-Matched Metal Roofing Screws
Color-matched metal roofing screws are designed to coordinate with the color of the metal roofing panels being installed. While appearance may not be the first consideration when choosing a fastener, matching the screw color to the roofing material can create a much more seamless and professional-looking finished product. These screws are especially useful when the fasteners will remain visible after installation. As with any roofing fastener, make sure the screws you choose are suitable for the specific application and roofing material. Combining the right screw type with a matching color allows you to achieve both reliable performance and a finished appearance that complements the metal sheeting.
Fasteners In RPS Metal Roofing
We not only carry metal roofing & siding panels, but screws and all other accessories needed for a high-quality roofing job. Shop our selection or call us for more information.