Whether you're a first-time DIYer or a seasoned contractor, we know metal roofing projects can come with a lot of questions. That's why we've put together this collection of helpful charts, guides, and answers to some of the most common questions we hear from our customers. From choosing the right size replacement screw to understanding sheet metal gauges, anti-corrosion materials, and tip types, this page is your go-to resource for quick, accurate information. Browse the sections below to find the answers you need, and feel confident in every step of your project.

Metal Roofing Screws

When replacing screws in a metal-to-wood application, it is always recommended to increase the diameter of the screw shaft. For example, if you are removing #10 screws, you should replace them with a #12 or larger so that the screw grips new material around the shaft, preventing leaks. Not sure what size screw you are taking out? Reference our Screw Diameter Size Guide.

Most residential metal roofs use a metal-to-wood application, where there is OSB or plywood underneath the metal roofing panels. These applications call for metal-to-wood screws. Other buildings, such as commercial or industrial, use steel purlins for supporting metal roofing panels. Our metal-to-metal screws are perfect for this, as the self-drilling tips are specifically meant for drilling into those steel beams.

Over time, UV rays and weather conditions result in the deterioration of washers on metal roofing screws. Once the washer breaks down, there is no barrier preventing moisture from penetrating your roof. It is recommended to replace most metal roofing screws every 10-15 years, before leaks occur. If you're looking for a longer-lasting screw, check out our ZXL Dome Cap screws.

Dome Cap screws feature a special head that completely covers the washer once installed. This protects the washer from UV damage and ensures it lasts years longer than industry-standard exposed washers.

Sheet Metal

While both materials can be used in various applications, steel is often used in structural applications such as roof and chimney flashings. Aluminum is more commonly used in protective and decorative applications, such as fascia covering and window and door trim.

Stainless Steel and Aluminum are both naturally corrosion-resistant and are highly sought after for coastal and high-salt environments. Galvanized and Galvalume steel are also considered corrosion-resistant, as they are coated with zinc and aluminum that extend the life of the steel.

Yes, our pure copper, both 16 and 20 ounce, will patina over time as it oxidizes. The color of the patina varies based on the elements the copper is surrounded by. In most applications, copper turns a reddish-brown as it oxidizes. In outdoor applications, especially ones with high humidity or salt, copper may turn green or blue-green. On rare occasions, when copper is exposed to ammonia or certain acids, it may turn blueish-purple.

We offer a variety of thicknesses of steel and aluminum. The gauge or thickness needed varies by application and preference. Most metal roofing panels are formed from 26-28 gauge steel, and fascia coverings are often finished with 0.019" aluminum. To see the conversion of gauge to decimals, please reference our Sheet Metal Gauge Guide.

Color-Matching

Because our products are not painted in our facility, we do not offer color-matching at this time.

While we try our best to accurately represent our products with photos, we understand that color-matching to a photo or color chart on a screen is difficult. We cannot guarantee that any product will match the same color you see online. However, we are happy to offer free color samples of all our products for color matching.

Please reach out to us via email at support@metalroofingscrews.com or by phone at (866) 773-1177 for color samples. We will ship you a free sample of the product in the color you desire to ensure it's perfect for your project.

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