Corrugated roof sheets are available in a variety of materials including PVC, fiberglass, aluminum, and steel. They can be painted, and are ideal for many different applications. A corrugated roof can last a lifetime and provide reliable utility, even in the most extreme conditions. These panels are also easy to install. However, they can be more difficult to cut than other types of roofing sheets.
Corrugated roofing sheeting is designed with repetitive folds and ridges that make it rigid and durable. It is made of galvanized steel or aluminum, and is available in a wide range of widths and lengths. The sizing of the metal sheets depends on the type of building. Generally, corrugated metal roofs are long-lasting and can last for up to 70 years. You will need to keep the roof maintained regularly, however.
A metal roof will reflect the sun’s heat, which will keep the inside cool. This helps prevent energy bills. The panels are generally more expensive than other options, however, and they may require a bit of extra assistance to get them installed. To minimize the chance of splitting during installation, sealing caps are usually used.
Before you begin the installation process, you need to make sure the purlins are in the proper locations. If they are not, you can use a timber spacer to help them stay square to the eaves. After the purlins are in place, the roof sheets should be nailed. The top and bottom of each slope should be nailed through the crown of the corrugations, and the other side of each slope should be nailed through a trough.
Once the roofing sheets are nailed down, the ridge pieces should be fixed at the roof slope. Depending on the manufacturer, foam filler pieces are also installed at the eaves. When cutting these pieces, you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Having the correct size, they can reduce draughts and allow for a fully watertight finish at the roof apex.
In the case of the steel sheets, the pitch of the material can vary from 25 mm to 125 mm. This pitch can be called rippled, short-pitched, or corrugated. Normally, the longer the sheet, the higher the pitch. Although corrugated steel is strong, it also has a high strength to weight ratio, so it can be a good choice for applications that require a lightweight panel.
When it comes to cutting corrugated sheets, you can either sandwich them together, or use a fine toothed hand saw to cut through them. Be sure to mark the material with one sheet on top of the other to indicate the proper placement of the end sheets.
Alternatively, you can apply general purpose lubricant to the edges of the purlins to avoid binding. For a solid and watertight finish at the apex, special verge barge covers are required. Overlaying the covers over the ridge pieces will ensure the roof is waterproof.
Choosing the right roofing panel is a crucial step in determining the best roof for your home. It is important to decide whether you want to choose a flat roof, a wavy or Trafford-shaped panel, or a more intricate shape.