Reliable, durable, budget-friendly, and easy roofing options are what home and business owners are searching for. Exposed fastener metal roofing hits all the marks.
Exposed fastener metal roofing is exactly as it sounds. Utilizing visible screws or fasteners to secure metal panels to the roof deck, this is a cost-effective and time-saving option for customers looking for durable and reliable roofing in a variety of colors without breaking the bank.
At Metal Roof Pros, our motto is “Do it once, do it right!”. You can count on us to give you real advice on how to choose the right roofing option so that you can do it once, and do it right. In this guide, we’ll discuss what exposed fastener metal roofs are, how to install them, and if this metal roofing system is right for you.
Installing Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing:
The process of installing EF (exposed fastener) metal roofing is quite simple. Utilizing exposed fasteners with corrugated or ribbed metal panels gives this metal roof a distinct appearance. Featuring raised ridges and seams, EF metal roofing gives a strong, simple, industrial look to any home or building.
Metal panels are installed by aligning them to the roof deck and fastening them directly to the deck with metal roofing screws or nails. The fasteners pass through the surface of the panels, which will be visible from the outside, thus giving this style of metal roofing its name.
Advantages of Exposed Fastener Roofing:
Affordability:
Because of the simple installation process, as well as the need for less material, exposed fastener metal roofing is a cost-effective option for budget-friendly builds and upgrades, especially for those with larger roofs to cover.
Easy Installation:
Exposed fastener metal roofing can be installed quickly and efficiently because of the screw placement and installation. The metal panels will come with pre-drilled holes that provide clear guidelines for panel placement and alignment. Given how quick installation can be, labor costs are lowered, aiding in the budget-friendliness of this roofing option.
Lifespan:
Exposed fastener metal roofing is known for its durability. These roofs can take a hit. They stay strong through harsh weather and are fire and insect-resistant, which makes them less likely to rot and age. However, the roofing does not magically stay intact forever.
These roofs require maintenance. With the right amount of maintenance and care, they can easily last 20 to 30 years. But let’s elaborate on that in the next section.
Disadvantages of Exposed Fastener Roofing:
Required Maintenance:
Exposed fastener metal roofing cannot expand and contract freely. Because of their signature fastening method, the screws or nails go straight through the metal panels, leaving no room for the natural expansion and contraction that happens with thermal changes. Note: Exposed fastener metal roofing is not recommended to be installed over heated living spaces.
Since the metal can’t expand and contract, pressure builds. Lack of expansion with increasing pressure will cause the holes in the washers around the nails and screws to become wallowed out as the roof ages.
With that in mind, you should expect to have a roofing contractor to maintain your roof every five to ten years to replace the screws. Without proper maintenance, you may experience leaks, which will eventually decrease the structural integrity of the roof. This type of damage will not be noticeable until it is too late. Make sure you keep the maintenance schedule in mind when considering an exposed fastener metal roof.
Without the required maintenance, you can expect to get possibility 20 years out of your roof. However, if you keep up with maintenance, your roof lifespan can exceed 30 years.
Weak Leak Resistance:
Storms and inclement weather are bound to happen, and your roof will take the brute of the damage. Without maintenance and observation, EF metal roofing can deteriorate around the washers holding the fasteners and eventually will lead to leaks. However, if you’re observant and willing to keep up with the maintenance schedule, your exposed fastener metal roof can experience minimal damage with easy repairs.
Noise:
Given that this style of roofing is made of exposed metal, you will experience more noise compared to other roofing options. Rainfall and hail will bring on a crescendo of pitter-patter that will be audible from inside the building. If you’re looking for a roofing option that doesn’t produce noise, this may not be the best option for you.
Choosing the Right Kind of Materials for your Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing System:
Though an exposed fastener metal roofing system can generally be a cost-effective option, it entirely depends on the materials you choose.
Size:
It’s no mystery that the size and complexity of your roofing needs will affect the overall cost of your project. Labor costs are higher when a project is large. Depending on the complexity of your roof and the need to accommodate architectural features, you can expect a higher cost of labor and a need for extra material.
Metal and Panel Type:
A significant portion of an exposed fastener metal roof’s price will come from the material of the panels. Depending on the thickness or gauge of the panel, as well as the choice of metal, you can expect a larger impact on price. Generally, the thicker the panel the more expensive it is.
Corrugated Panels:
These types of panels are identifiable by their ribbed or wavy design. Corrugated panels are well known for their durability, as the corrugated design makes the panels rigid, which gives them a higher structural integrity and the ability to withstand heavier loads. Corrugated panels can be a good option when needing a simple, durable metal roof, however, they generally are a little more expensive compared to other options.
Box Rib Panels:
Often also known as V-beam or V-crimp panels because of their distinctive V-shaped crimps, the Box Rib panel can provide an aesthetically pleasing pattern to your roof. The distinct shape of this roof style aids in its durability, making it a great option for a client looking not to sacrifice aesthetics when choosing a durable roofing option.
All Purpose Panels:
All-purpose panels are known for their trapezoidal-shaped divots. Though this style boasts a more industrial look, the design of this roofing option provides strength and stability, making it a great option for those needing a roof that will withstand heavy loads and harsh weather. This style of roof is often used with roofs that have low slopes and can be versatile. It may even be considered for both roofing and walls. All Purpose Panels are generally the most cost-effective option due to their low profile and versatility. Learn about Max Rib all-purpose metal roof panels.
In Conclusion
It is known that while a metal roof may not be necessary for every build, it could be a versatile, budget-friendly option to consider. When choosing your roofing options, considering an exposed fastener metal roofing system might just be the option that you’re looking for.
With the proper care and attention, exposed fastener metal roofing can last for thirty or more years, making this a worthy investment of your time and money. However, keep in mind that an exposed fastener metal roofing system is not suitable for all projects. If you’re planning to install this roof over heated living spaces, this roof is not the option for you.
At Metal Roof Pro’s, we’re always here for our clients. Ask us about 100% financing for your roofing project by calling us at 1-855-73-METAL, or check out our FAQ for more information on all things metal roofing.