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Metal roof installation

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I'm finding out that if you ask a question online that you get several different answers so I want to ask an expert so I can get my metal roof finished. I have a 12x22' stand alone leanto. Called a run in shed on the farm. The roof is 4/12 and approve for metal roofing. I used 2x4's for the furring strips. I need to know when beginning which edge of the metal roofing panel goes to the outside of the roof. I've been told they are referred to as the fat side and skinny side. So I'll use that in hopes you know what I'm talking about. I'm split 50/50 on answers. Some say fat side while others say skinning side. Some say it doesn't matter. I would like to know what sayest the experts and that's what I'll do. I'm glad I found this site because your answers are easy to understand and you get great intructions. Thanks a million
Bob Jennette

11/3/2016
Hi Bob, Thanks for your question about metal roofing. Metal panels come in a lot of profiles. I do not have enough information to say for sure, but generally the wide side goes down along the starting rake and the leading edge is the small side for the next panel to lap on top of. The best source of information is to check with the manufacturer of the profile. If the manufacturer is an MRA member, they likely have installation instruction on their web site. If you post a photo of the panel profile, I would be happy to look it over and comment. Regards, David David Stermer
David Stermer

11/3/2016
Here are some photos. Hope they are clear enough for you. Thanks again for all your help.
Guest User

11/4/2016
Hi Bob, It is kind of hard to interpret the profile looking normal to the panel. A picture of the end would likely show the profile more clearly and help with figuring out how the sidelap goes together. Thanks! David David Stermer
David Stermer

11/4/2016
Here is a side view
Bob Jennette

11/4/2016
Oops forgot the other side. Here it is
Bob Jennette

11/4/2016
Hi Bob, I can't tell much from the latest photo. I was thinking of a picture like this that shows the end of the panel. Thanks, David David Stermer
David Stermer

11/4/2016
David. I went on the web site of the makers of the metal panels like you suggested and found pictures of panel installation. The only thing I couldn't get clear was the stitching screws. Their instructions did not cover how many stitching screws you put in each panel but their pictures show one in each end and nowhere else. Is one in each end enough or should I put them every two feet like the other screws. This should be my last question. You have been great and this web site is exceptional. Thank you for all the help.
Guest User

11/7/2016
David, can you tell me how many stitching screws I should use per panel. I've been told just 2, one at the bottom and one at the top. Is this correct.
Guest User

11/9/2016
HI Bob, Thanks for the question. It is probably worth contacting the manufacturer about the stitch screw spacing. I believe the spacing depends on their purpose. If the stitch screws are just holding the panel in place to make a capillary break work, 2' on center should be fine. If the purpose is to provide a weather seal in conjunction with tape sealant between the panel in the sidelap, then I recommend 1' on center. From testing I have seen 2' on center will allow gaps and permit air and water leakage. Regards, David David Stermer
David Stermer

11/11/2016
the edge with the lip goes down first aka fat side, a lot of folks make the mistake and think it goes over top, it does not! hopefully this helps you!
Brent Zimmerman

11/13/2016
Hi Bob, not sure which metal roofing profile system you are working with, but here is a nice primer on how to install a standing seam metal roof: http://www.roofingcalc.com/standing-seam-metal-roofing-installation-diy/ But, if you are dealing with a different system, you should be able to get installation manual or PDF from the manufacturer of the system.
Guest User

11/18/2016

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