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TOPIC: Standing Seam roof

Standing Seam - Diagonal Cut

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I'm considering installing a standing seam metal roof on my new porch addition. I'll do the work myself. How do I make a diagonal cut across the 'ridges' in the material? I've read that a circular saw (my first thought) is not recommended; I've never used electric shears, but I didn't think they would work well (or at all) going diagonally across those ridges. Am I wrong? Is there another way to cut diagonally? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks! Brian
Brian Mears

5/13/2005
It is possible to cut with electric shears or hand snips. The only other option is a guillotine ... these are rather expensive though and something which most professional installers will have. You might check with whoever you bought the panels from to see if they have a guillotine you can borrow. Todd Miller
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

5/14/2005
I haven't bought anything yet--still in the planning stages. Will shears or snips distort the metal as you cut across ridges? Better yet... could you recommend a type of electric shear (specific model for example) that you believe would allow me to make diagonal cuts across the panels? I just want to make sure that I don't get myself into something that I can't do properly. If you recommend something, I'll go out and take a look at them. Thanks, Brian
Guest User

5/14/2005
Hi Brian, I am sorry ... I do not have a specific brand ... in my experience, they are all pretty similar. Both electric and hand snips may cause some minor distortion but it can be adjusted back into place. On your hip cuts, the hip trim will cover the panel ends. Todd Miller
Todd Miller
Isaiah Industries, Inc.

5/14/2005