Best Practices for Standing Seam Metal Roofs

While many homeowners are choosing the durable-looking aesthetic of metal roofing materials, choosing the proper type is critical. Among the most popular designs are standing seam metal roofs. The term “standing seam” comes from the prominent raised interlocking seam that joins each panel together. In some areas, standing seam designs are called “commercial” or “barn” designs. 

Standing Seam Metal Design 

Standing seam metal roofs incorporate a hidden interlocking-type design for connecting the panels, which eliminates the bolt and nail holes that can lead to the potential for moisture issues in the future. Using concealed fasteners not only makes a strong visual statement, it helps reduce rain from trailing down or bleeding through. 

Traditional metal roofs are fastened with screws driven through the metal and roof deck. One disadvantage of this design is that the panels can't move as the metal's temperature changes.

Standing Seam Metal Roof Installation 

LP WeatherLogic® Air & Water Barrier helps safeguard your build from water intrusion. Many builders find great success using the panels in roof applications––especially when building standing seam metal roofs.  

We asked professional contractor Kyle Stumpenhorst of @rrbuildings about his experience installing LP WeatherLogic sheathing below standing seam metal roofs. He reports there are two major reasons he likes using LP WeatherLogic panels when sheathing under metal roofs: 

“First and foremost, the Struc I panel gives us the roof structure and shear needed specifically when using metal roofing,” says Stumpenhorst. “Secondly, we like it due to the rigidity and strength it has over other commodity roof sheathing.”

While installing standing seam metal roofs, it's critical you're working with a totally flat surface. “LP WeatherLogic panels provide the flattest roof deck possible, which leads to a better end result and less chance for ‘oil can' or waves in the metal,” he says. “The integrated WRB means we don't need to install felt paper, which is obviously more efficient and safer.”

No matter the size of your crew, installing LP WeatherLogic panels can be a simple process because it installs like regular sheathing.  

“If anything, LP WeatherLogic panel installation on the roof is easier because once you get started, just properly space your sheets and go! If leaving the panels exposed for any period of time, make sure to tape as you go and don't overdrive your nails,” Stumpenhorst advises.   

Have you considered installing a radiant barrier under your metal roof? Here's what you need to know.