Standing Seam vs. Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing

Exposed fastener metal roofing is a roofing system where the panels are attached to the structure and directly into the roof deck or framing of your home. It’s called an “exposed fastener” because the head of the fastener is able to be seen and not hidden by a seam. An exposed fastener system is considered the best choice for your metal roofing and is used heavily on residential, structural, industrial, and agricultural buildings.

Advantages of Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing

Less Costly– One of the greatest advantages of choosing exposed fastener metal roofing is that they are less expensive, especially when compared to standing seam methods. There are many reasons for the lower price, like fewer accessory purchases.

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No Seaming Needed– Exposed fastener systems do not need mechanical seaming for the panels. Most systems use what they call a lap seam where the edges of each panel overlap one another and are then fastened down together at the same time through the material. This quick attachment method is why exposed fastener metal roofing is considered the less labor-intensive choice when compared to standing seam metal roofing.

Standing seam metal roofing is manufactured to have a hidden fastener metal panel system with vertical channels and a wide, flat area between them. It is also has lifted seams, or vertical legs, above the level of the panel’s flat area. Standing seam systems have hidden fasteners.

Advantages Of Standing Seam Metal Roofing

No Exposed Fasteners– Easily one of the biggest draws of standing seam metal roofing is that no fasteners are visible on your home or building. This makes it so they are not exposed to UV, moisture, wind, and other features that can cause a clasp to wear easily. Also, standing seam systems won’t put holes in the panels that are covering your structure.

Allows For Thermal Movement– When you limit the expansion needed for the proper thermal activity of a metal panel, you can run into problems. You may deal with oil canning, clasp withdrawals, louder noise, and other things that can cause your home to be overly noisey.