Exposed Fastener Metal Roofing Panels

Exposed fastener panels overlap at the side laps and screw through the face into the purlins or deck. They go up fast with fewer parts, which makes them common on barns, garages, sheds, commercial walls and budget roofs.

Profiles in the catalog

• RPBR (R-panel). Tall major ribs with flat pans between them, for roofs and walls. The PBR version has a purlin bearing leg at the side lap.
• 7/8″ corrugated. A deeper corrugation that is stiffer than 1/2″, for roofing and siding.
• 1/2″ corrugated. The classic shallow corrugated look, used on walls, wainscots and ceilings as well as roofs.

To form 5V crimp panels yourself, see the NTM 5VC on our roll formers page.

Strengths and limits

Exposed fastener panels cost less and install faster than standing seam, with no clips and fewer special tools. The trade-off is the fasteners. Every screw is a hole through the roof, and the sealing washers age in the sun. Long panels also move with heat, which can work screw holes loose over time. Panel makers usually set a higher minimum slope for exposed fastener panels than for standing seam, so check the figure for your profile.

Installing them right

• Use screws with sealing washers, driven square and snug. A crushed or crooked washer leaks.
• Follow the panel maker’s screw pattern for the roof or wall.
• Put butyl tape in the side laps and end laps.
• Use closures at the eave and ridge to keep out weather, birds and insects.
• Check and re-tighten screws during roof maintenance.

Questions