Does your metal roof need to be sealed? Metal roofs are an excellent investment for the long term, but there can be some confusion about whether or not they require sealant.
It is obvious that you need closure strips if your roof is made of metal. These strips are important because they form a tight seal against insects and other pests from entering through any cracks. This will make your roof moisture-proof and noise-proof.
What are Closure Strips for Metal Roofing?
Closure strips are the metal attachments that help fasten the roofing to a structure. They come together and overlap, usually with two or three folds to strengthen and reinforce against wind and water damage. The strips are held in place by the panel’s standing seam.
This metal roofing component is usually about three inches long, although some may be longer or shorter depending on the requirements of the design. They are available in aluminum and galvanized steel, both of which have their own benefits to offer your home.
The strips for a new installation should be added to the purlins and ridge before the panels are placed. Once they’re in place, seams should be stitched together to secure them well.
Once the roof is completed you’ll want to caulk all of your seams and any other openings that may allow water entry into your home’s structure.
Closure strips can also be used for installation on a retrofit , although they must be attached to the ridge board before the panels are placed.
Different metal roofing manufacturers will have their own recommendations for installation instructions, so always follow instructions from the manufacturer.
Why Use Closure Strips?
Here are some of the best reasons why you must use closure strips for your metal roofing:
1. They secure the shingles of a metal roof so storm winds do not lift them up and off the roof.
2. They also protect against water intrusion at seams and fasteners.
3. Closure strips can be used to attach the metal roofing panels to a structure such as a house or barn, like on a retrofit install.
4. If the panels aren’t attached to the purlins, they can shift in heavy winds and rip away from the roof.
5. If they’re not secured properly to the ridge, they can flap against it resulting in a noisy install.
Benefits of Having Closure Strips for Metal Roofing
If one of the most important benefits of a metal roof is its excellent durability and resistance to inclement weather conditions, then it makes sense that any good system will incorporate a method for sealing the periphery.
Closure Strips are used along the edge(s) of a metal panel to provide seal between the panel and perimeter shingles. Here are the benefits:
Can resist moisture – The sealant used in closure strips is moisture resistant. When it is humid outside, water or moisture can easily flow through the gaps.
The water and moisture will make the rooms damp. A damp environment is also favorable for bacteria and fungi to grow. Your roof must be water resistant to prevent damage.
Prevents unwanted light from the outside – Light will shine through the gaps in between the roof deck and top of the panels. This light is unnecessary and can ruin the lighting and decor of a room.
Reduces noise coming from the outside – Noise from outside easily penetrates the gaps between metal panels and rooftop decks. Closing the gaps on your roof also reduces noise coming from outside. This is beneficial for those who are trying to study or sleep at night.
Prevents pests from coming in – You don’t want rodents, birds or insects to use your roof deck as a shelter. By installing closure strips, you can keep creatures from living on your roof.
Promotes roofing system durability – These strips are made to last. But this does not mean your roof is invincible and can withstand all types of weather conditions.
Closing the gaps on your roof ensures that it has enhanced protection from rain, snow, and high winds. The strips can function efficiently for a long time without being damaged.
Different Installation Methods On Different Types of Metal Roofing Installs
Here is an overview of different installations for metal roofing of different types:
- If you have a new build, closure strips should be installed before the panels are placed on the structure or purlins. Only full panels should be placed on the roof.
- If you are retrofitting your metal roofing, remember that you do not have purlins to secure the strips to. The only attachment point will be the ridge board.
- When working with a standing seam type of metal roofing, find out if closure strips are required by reading installation instructions or speaking to a professional.
You’ll need to install them before you place the panels on top of your structure or ridge board, if they are required for your panel’s application.
Conclusion
Roofers must be aware that there is a space between the metal panel’s high corrugations and the roof deck. Some issues can develop from these gaps, such as allowing wind-driven water and excess noise from the outside to get inside.
Closure strips are fabricated in different ways, but you can always determine if they’re for your type of metal roofing by looking at the standing seams. If it’s deep enough to touch the seam below or above, then that is where it attaches.
