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Screws?

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Guest User
6/18/2002
Are there problems with the washers on screws "drying out" over time and starting to leak? What sort of washer is best? What about the enclosed "cap" type screws. Will any give as good as service as enclosed fastener paneling?
Allan Reid
Dura-Loc Roofing Systems, Inc.
6/20/2002
Any roof system is only as good as its weakest point and if you are considering an exposed fastened metal system then the fastener should be matched to the panel. The environment and design of your building are important factors coupled with the design of the panel. You can buy zinc plated screws which will provide moderate protection up to stainless for harsh environments. The "rubber" washers are available in a couple of grades with the better ones resistant to UV and chemicals. The metal washers are there to help with the seal and the ones with the "cap" are an upgrade as they encapsulet the rubber and help keep it from deforming and better protects it from the UV. The most common cause of roof failures is the overtightening of the screw that deforms the washer and does not allow the metal to expand and contract freely. Having said all this it is best to contact the manufacturer who can ensure that you have the right type, size and spacing, then you can make a value decision on the quality.
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