Recently updated on December 28th, 2021 at 08:35 pm
Whether you’ve spent a lifetime working on roofs or you are looking to start your first ever project, you will need to find the right tools for the job. In regards to roofing in general, standard seam metal roofing is in a league of its own. You want to make sure you have high-quality products that will not quit on you. They have to be sturdy, durable and fit the specifications for your job. There are many tools you’ll require to get the job done right. Here are three metal roofing tools that you’ll need and exactly what to look for when making a purchase.
1. A Sheet Metal Hammer
First, you need to find the right hammer for the job. It will need to be well-balanced and have a comfortable grip. It’s good for the hammer to be lightweight as long as it still has the strength to accomplish what it needs to do. There are plenty of hammers that are designed specifically to achieve certain tasks, but if you’re unsure you can always go with a reliable all-purpose hammer.
2. Seaming Tools
Standing seam roofs are becoming more and more popular. To accomplish the job correctly you need to have the right seaming tool. If you want the highest quality product and the least labour-intensive choice, you may want to go with a mechanical seamer like the AccuSeamer. This may be a more expensive choice, but if you have a lot of roofing jobs coming up it’s a worthy investment.
The other option is getting a hand seamer. Your choice will be different depending on whether or not you’re doing a single or double lock. A single lock is when you’re only folding the seams of the panel over once (90 degrees). The benefits of this are that it is easier to install and can hold up in milder climates. However, it is not as airtight as a double lock. If you decide to go this route you will need a first stagehand seamer. Though, It might be smart to go with a common and more secure method like the double lock. This is more labour-intensive, but worth it in the end. To do this you’ll need a second stage finish seamer.
3. Edge Folding Tools
This portion of the job is extremely important as well. It is actually a two-step process, so you will need multiple tools. You’ll need tools for notching and tools for hemming. Notching can be a bit of a time-consuming process. We would recommend cutting snips and a MASC nibbler tool. A nibbler can cut continuous slots and avoid slits. It makes it easier to prep panels than traditional tin snips and can especially be useful when working with zinc.
Hemming will take place after the notching process. The overhanging material will need to be hemmed and secured to the drip edge. Most hemming tools are pretty simple in nature. You will likely only need a bar folding tool. However, if you are looking for something a little more precise, rolling benders are always a valid option.
Where To Buy Metal Roofing Tools
Though all the tools mentioned above are wonderful and much needed, there are still more tools that you will need. This is just a great place to get started. When purchasing tools, knowing exactly what you’re looking for is important. You can get all the metal roofing tools you need and more from Stortz.com. They’ve been selling quality tools since 1853. They have an amazing selection. If you are a contractor or just someone looking for the right tools for a roofing project then Stortz is the place to get everything you need.
