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Preventing Oil Canning on Metal Roofs

Introduction:
Metal roofing is renowned for its durability, longevity, and aesthetic appeal, making it a popular choice for quality-focused construction projects. However, one challenge that can impact the visual integrity of metal roofs is oil canning—the unsightly waviness or rippling that can occur on the surface. At Spengler Industries, we ensure your project will be virtually impervious to issues like oil canning.

Don’t believe us? Here’s a project, properly planned with 35 feet of continuous panels on a CONVEX surface!

No oil canning on a metal roof
Perfect metal panels on a convex surface

Understanding Oil Canning:
Oil canning is a phenomenon that results from the metal panels contracting and expanding due to temperature changes. This contraction and expansion can create stress on the panels, leading to visible deformations on the surface. While some degree of expansion and contraction is inherent in metal roofing it should never affect cosmetics or be visible. We are able to eliminate oil canning and provide our clients with roofing systems that stand the test of time.

Preventative Measures:
Most of the problems we see are due to poor machining and poor substructures. Here’s an example of how that can translate:

And here’s the tight, sharp, sharp, sharp look you can expect when things are done right:

Panel Length Limits:
Following traditional methods rooted in centuries-old European craftsmanship, we establish panel length limits based on different metals to ensure optimal performance. This includes recommendations such as keeping wall cladding panels 5-8% shorter than roofing panels.

PANEL SIZES
Panel width: –
– 6” – 20” possible
– 17” standard panel width

Maximum panel length:
– 28 feet in aluminum and zinc
– 30 feet in copper
– 33 feet in steel
– 38 feet in lower stainless steels
– 42 feet in 316L and titanium

Fastening with Precision:
We recommend the use of stainless steel clips and ring shank nails for fastening metal roofing. However, we acknowledge the need for cost-effective solutions, allowing the use of galvanized clips and nails for painted steel or aluminum materials. The length of the nails is also crucial, with recommendations tailored to the sheathing and ice and water shield thickness.

Spacing the Clips:
Determining the spacing of clips is a nuanced process that considers local wind uplift and snow load requirements, panel width, subsurface strength, roof orientation, slope, insulation, ventilation, and humidity transfer. While a general guideline suggests clips not being further apart than 16 inches, specific conditions may warrant different measurements.

Fixed and Sliding Clips:
For panels longer than 10 feet, a combination of fixed and expansion clips is recommended to address expansion and contraction. The placement of fixed clips depends on the roof slope, ensuring a robust fixation area to withstand the forces acting on the panels.

Application Specifics:
Our Traditional Double Locked Standing Seam Panel (TDLSSP) is designed for various applications, including straight surface roofing, curved or arched cladding, and 3D-shaped surfaces. The installation process involves meticulous steps, from substrate preparation to the use of recommended fasteners and mechanical seaming.

Material Storage and Handling:
Proper storage is crucial to prevent moisture-related issues that can affect the appearance and service life of the material. Panels should be stored in a well-ventilated, dry place, and if outdoor storage is necessary, protective measures such as ventilated canvas or waterproof paper covers should be employed.

Conclusion:
At Spengler Industries, our commitment to quality extends beyond the fabrication of metal roofing and cladding systems. By combining traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering, we provide solutions that not only meet but exceed the expectations of our clients. The prevention of oil canning shows our dedication to delivering metal roofing that stands the test of time, ensuring beauty, durability, and performance for generations to come.

For more specific information along with drawings, download our forms here:

Let us help you plan your next metal roofing project with confidence!

Call today!
801-462-5264

Office phone:  801-462-5264 

 5066 West Amelia Earhart Drive
Salt Lake City, UT 84116

We are located in Salt Lake City, Utah – (West of the Salt Lake City international airport.)

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