All metal roofing panels must be attached to the roof with some type of fasteners.
The difference comes in whether those fasteners are clips, bolts, nails, or screws, and whether or not they are hidden or exposed.
These details play a big role in the price/budget, durability, aesthetics, and installation of your metal roof.
What Are Hidden Fastener Roofs?
Fasteners are the hardware roofers use to secure metal panels to the structure beneath them. These include clips, bolts, nails, and screws.
Once installed, hidden fasteners cannot be seen because they’re attached beneath the metal panels with a fastening clip and/or screws.
To secure the connection, the panels are laid over and attached to the clip system, then mechanically or hand locked into place.
The terms “hidden” or “concealed” are used interchangeably to describe this type of installation where you cannot see the connecting hardware fixed underneath the surface.
Hidden fastener metal roofing can be used for both residential and commercial applications. It creates a more aesthetically pleasing, smooth, and uninterrupted surface.
Features of Concealed Fastener Metal Roofing
- The hidden fastener metal panels are joined by interlocking seams designed to snap together.
- Hidden fastener panels are typically more narrow than exposed fastener panels
- A hidden fastener roof installation has excellent weather resistance due to its seamless surface.
- These types of roofing panels are available in a multitude of sizes and styles to match your aesthetic.
Benefits of Hidden Fastener Metal Roofs
Hidden fastener roof panels are popular for residential roofing because many homeowners prefer the clean look compared to exposed fasteners. They’re a less traditional-looking metal roof that fits seamlessly into today’s residential neighborhoods.
- Durability
Properly installed hidden fastener roofs can last a long time. The fasteners are underneath the panels rather than on top and secured directly to the strong structural beams on the roof deck.
This way, the roof remains firmly in place, minimizing weather exposure and resulting in a longer lifespan. Once installed correctly, these roofs can be ready to withstand high winds, torrential weather, pests, moisture, and fire damage.
- Reduced Temperature-Related Distortion
Metal panels naturally expand and contract with changing temperatures. This is referred to as thermal movement. Hidden fasteners allow your roof to flex and adapt better, providing greater thermal movement and less wear and tear or “fastener fatigue.”
- Sleek & Modern Appearance
Hidden fastener metal roofs create seamless, attractively finished roofs with uninterrupted lines. This means a more distinctive and striking look that complements contemporary architectural styles.
Over time, your roof will maintain its beautiful appearance and won’t fade with sunlight exposure.
- Reduced Damage to Fasteners and Property
The fasteners in concealed metal roof systems are protected beneath the panels, reducing the chances of rain, wind, or other types of weather conditions damaging them.
The continuous surface of a hidden fastener system allows rain to flow seamlessly into the gutters, protecting your entire structure from water damage throughout the life of the roof.
- Less Maintenance
The fasteners in hidden metal roofing systems aren’t exposed to UV light or constant debris, which reduces the maintenance required.
A concealed fastener roof requires less frequent maintenance checks than exposed fastener roofs because there aren’t as many opportunities for loosened or damaged fasteners.
Disadvantages of Concealed Fastener Metal Roofs
While hidden fastener systems tote many benefits, they aren’t the best choice for every roof.
It’s important to consider both the benefits and disadvantages to make the best choice for your home or business.
- More Expensive
Hidden fastener roofing system materials are of higher quality, therefore they are more expensive. The increased price is due to the thicker gauges of panels used and a longer installation time, which increases the labor cost.
However, a concealed fastener roof lasts longer and requires less maintenance than exposed fastener roofing. The national average cost to install a galvanized steel hidden fastener roof on a regular single-family house ranges from $10.50 and $17.50 per square foot. The cost will change depending on your home’s size, number of sides, pitch, and roof accessories.
- Difficult to Repair And Replace
Hidden fastener metal roofs are designed to last. They are not easy to access once installed and it can be challenging to repair or replace a single panel if it gets damaged. To do this, you first have to separate the individual panels needing replacement or repair, which means unseaming them from one another. This can be difficult and costly.
For this reason, it’s important to ensure your roof is installed by quality contractors who have experience with hidden fastener roofing.
It’s Time for a Concealed Fastener Metal Roof
Standing seam metal roofing with hidden fasteners is a beautiful modern metal roof design. It also comes with its fair share of advantages to provide peace of mind in your investment.
The concealed fastener installation gives you freedom with architectural design options with a variety of metal types that can be customized and painted to match any home style. If it’s time for a concealed fastener metal roof for your home or business, give us a call today!
