When it comes to durability, longevity, and weather resilience, few commercial roofing systems compare to the standing seam metal roof. For business owners in Onalaska, WI, where winters can be harsh and summers humid, investing in a roofing system that can handle a wide range of conditions is essential. One of the most dependable choices? A standing seam metal roof.
Before jumping into a new roofing system, it is crucial to understand how it works. From panels and seams to clips and fasteners, this system is built for performance—but every component plays a critical role. If you are considering this roofing option for your commercial property in Onalaska, WI, call MQ Roofing at (608) 553-3300 for a professional consultation.
What Is a Standing Seam Metal Roof and How Does It Work?
Unlike traditional roofing systems, which often rely on exposed fasteners and overlapping shingles or panels, a standing seam metal roof is engineered for precision, minimal maintenance, and maximum strength. The name comes from its signature feature: raised seams that interlock vertically, above the flat of the panel surface.
Key Characteristics
Concealed Fasteners: Fasteners are hidden beneath the seams, reducing exposure to the elements and minimizing leaks.
Vertical Seams: Standing seams run vertically from the ridge of the roof down to the eaves.
Thermal Movement: The system is designed to accommodate the natural expansion and contraction of metal due to temperature changes.
Let us take a closer look at what goes into a standing seam system—component by component.
Key Components of a Standing Seam Metal Roof System
Select the Right Metal Panels for Your Roof
The foundation of the roof system, these panels are made from galvanized steel, aluminum, or other corrosion-resistant metals. They are cut to size based on your building’s dimensions and then formed either in a factory or on-site.
Profile types include:
Snap-lock: Panels snap together without mechanical seaming.
Mechanical seam: Panels are crimped together using a seaming tool, offering increased strength and watertight protection.
Each type has its pros and cons, depending on your building’s pitch, size, and climate conditions.
Standing Seam Profiles: Double-Lock vs. Single-Lock
These seams are what give the roof its name. Typically 1 to 2 inches high, these vertical ridges are where adjacent panels connect.
There are two main seam styles:
Double-lock seam: Offers superior weather-tightness and is ideal for low-slope roofs.
Single-lock seam: Easier to install and suitable for moderate climates or steeper slopes.
In Onalaska’s snowy winters, a double-lock seam often provides extra protection against water infiltration and ice buildup.
Use High-Quality Clips and Fasteners for Durability
These hidden fasteners are what secure the panels to the roof deck. The clips are designed to hold the panels in place while still allowing them to move slightly as the metal expands and contracts with temperature changes.
Using the wrong type of fastener or spacing them too far apart can cause buckling or blow-offs during storms. Precision and compatibility with the metal panels are critical here.
Install Over a Properly Prepared Roof Deck
Beneath every great roof is a solid foundation. A standing seam metal roof must be installed over a suitable roof deck—typically plywood, metal decking, or an existing roofing surface.
This base needs to be clean, flat, and in good structural condition. Any irregularities will affect the alignment of panels and could compromise the waterproofing of the seams.
Protect Against Moisture with Underlayment
Installed between the roof deck and metal panels, underlayment acts as an additional barrier against moisture. In areas like Onalaska, where freeze-thaw cycles are common, this layer helps prevent condensation from causing mold or rot.
Common options include:
Synthetic underlayment: Durable and weather-resistant.
Peel-and-stick membrane: Ideal for low-slope roofs and extreme weather conditions.
Standing Seam Metal Roof Experts!
Choosing a standing seam metal roof is an investment in the long-term health of your commercial property. But the system is only as good as its individual components and the quality of its installation. By understanding the anatomy of a standing seam metal roof, commercial building owners in Onalaska, WI can make informed decisions that extend the life and performance of their roof.
For expert advice, installation, and inspection services, contact MQ Roofing at (608) 553-3300. Your building deserves the strength, precision, and reliability that only a well-installed standing seam system can offer.
FAQ
How long does a standing seam metal roof typically last?
With proper installation and maintenance, these roofs can last 40–70 years, depending on the environment and material used.
Can standing seam roofs be installed on low-slope commercial buildings?
Yes, especially when using double-lock seam profiles. These are ideal for low slopes because of their superior water resistance.
Do these roofs require special maintenance?
Not much. Routine inspections for debris, sealant integrity, and fastener security are usually enough. The concealed fasteners reduce most common maintenance issues.
Is a standing seam metal roof energy efficient?
Yes. Many panels come with reflective coatings that help reduce solar heat gain, which can improve building energy efficiency.
Can you retrofit a standing seam metal roof over an existing roof?
Sometimes. It depends on the condition of the existing roof and building codes. A professional inspection will determine feasibility.