Hidden or Exposed Fasteners?
Exposed fasteners or hidden? That is a good question, and our next area to consider! This may not sound like a big deal but over time it certainly can become one of your larger decisions in buying a metal roof of this type. The exposed screw, although less expensive, can work its way loose due to winds as well as movement caused by contraction and expansion. I may be a little ahead of myself in that the exposed screw is very common when applying a metal panel to an agricultural building, to a shed or outbuilding and perhaps even a garage. But when it comes to your home, although it is heavily used, you may want to think about that more carefully before deciding. As I said, the exposed fastener is more likely to work its way loose, over time, than a hidden fastener will. Movement of the metal against its fasteners can result in “wobble” and larger screw holes followed by leaks. This problem may come sooner if not installed properly; when the screws are fastened too tightly the metal is strained and can cause the “wobble” effect to occur more quickly. The same end result occurs when the fasteners are too loose. The wind will work on the fasteners, enlarge the screw holes and eventually cause unwanted leaks whose source can be very difficult to find and fix. One General Contractor told me he had his new home outfitted with exposed fastened panels just three years ago. He said, "I wish I had never done it". In less than three years the wind and other movement, from contraction and expansion, had caused a "wobble" affect over much of his roof. Upon further conversation I discovered the problem was a roofer who tightened the screws much too tight. Now when it comes to hidden fasteners please click here for a review of the
snap lock metal roofing,
or standing seam. This is the profile design where the hidden fastener is used. Exposed Fasteners
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