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TOPIC: Installation Process

Nail through top of metal roof?

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Hello, I'm having a home built by a production builder, and it has a standard metal roof above the porch. I noticed after they put it on, that it had a few shiny spots where it looked like the paint chipped away or something, but it turned out upon further inspection that they drove at least 3 nails through the top surface of the metal roof, and then covered it w/ a dab of silicone. I'm concerned about the long term reprocussions of this, but I emailed my independent inspector w/ the pics and he didn't seem too concerned. I have not yet heard a response to my complaint from the builder. I wanted ask the experts here if my concerns are warranted. I would not drive a nail through a regular shingle, cover it w/ sealant and expect it to stay dry, why would this be any different? Thanks, Karz
Guest User

3/6/2006
The best thing to do is contact the manufacturer and get their opinion. Next get a copy of the installation instructions and the product approval which will dictate how it is to be installed. Having said that, it looks like a snap lock type product designed so that there is a fastening flange however it would appear that they fastened on the exposed side not the concealed side and with nails not screws. As to the gable end, normally the product is either hemmed over a drip edge or covered with a L shaped trim and certainly I would be concerned on the type and quality of the fastener.
Allan Reid
Dura-Loc Roofing Systems, Inc.

3/8/2006
Thanks Allan, It sounds like you saw both sets of pictures, but now I come back in and I only see my original message, not my subsequent messages and additional pictures. I wonder if something is wrong with this forum? Well in case anyone else comes in to look at the other pics, I will attempt to attach them again. The first pic shows exposed nails in the middle of some panels, the second pics shows exposed nails along the seams where Allan refers to nailing, instead of screwing, on the exposed side, instead of the concealed side. Thanks again Allan for your comments. I guess I'll have to ask the builder for the manufacturer's name and try to get the install instructions... Karz
Guest User

3/8/2006
Hi again, just to update, I called the builder who said the mfg was Hubbell Steel http://www.hubbellsteel.com/default.htm and their web site doesn't have much information on it. I called a number given to me, and was transferred into a blind mail box, I zero'd out and was told they don't usually handle calls like this, but said that this individual (won't mention name) was the quality mgr and would likely be who I should talk to, and put me back in voice mail to lv a msg... So I don't know if I'll get a call back there. Are there any other resources I could use to back up my case that they are not installing it correctly? Thanks, Karz
Guest User

3/8/2006
Well I believe Hubbell is only a supplier of pre painted coiled steel and would suggest that the product was probably rolled on a portable roll former. I would check Hubbells web site to confirm. I would go back to the builder and ask to see literature on the product and in the interim, hold back any monies due until he can produce a manual that says thatv this method is acceptable.
Allan Reid
Dura-Loc Roofing Systems, Inc.

3/9/2006