What is a Hidden Fastener Metal Roof?

Hidden fastener metal roofing is becoming increasingly popular in the residential roofing industry. But even as it becomes more popular, most people don’t know enough about it to decide if it’s the right roofing material for them. 

That’s why the first question I always get asked by a homeowner interested in metal roofing is, “What exactly is a hidden fastener metal roof?” 

For over 30 years, the team at Bill Ragan Roofing has educated homeowners on all aspects of the roofing industry. Because of this, I’ll break down what a hidden fastener metal roof is and what you need to know about it. 

This article answers the following questions:

• What is a hidden fastener metal roof?
• What materials make up a hidden fastener metal roof?
• What warranties do you get with a hidden fastener metal roof?
• How long does a hidden fastener metal roof last?

What is a hidden fastener metal roof?

A hidden fastener metal roof (also called standing seam) is a series of metal panels locked together at the seams or seamed mechanically. The name comes from the fact that the fasteners are hidden underneath the metal panels.

The fasteners are installed under each rib (seam) to allow the panels to glide back and forth. These ribs are usually between 12 and 24 inches apart, depending on the length of the metal panel and the aesthetics of the structure. 

What’s great about the hidden fasteners is that they enable the metal to expand and contract freely when it goes through thermal expansion. Because of this expansion capability, a hidden fastener metal roof is the recommended type of metal roofing for residential purposes. 

3 things to know about a hidden fastener metal roof

Now you know what a hidden fastener metal roof is. But there’s still much more to learn about it to determine if it’s the right type of roofing material for you. 

Let’s get to 3 big things you need to know about a hidden fastener metal roof. 

1. The materials that make up a hidden fastener metal roof

A hidden fastener metal roof is more than just the metal panels you see. It’s a combination of materials and components that come together to form a complete metal roof system.

Each component has a specific function to ensure your metal roof stays leak-free. Knowing these materials helps you understand the different parts and also breaks down what you're paying for when getting a hidden fastener metal roof. 

A hidden fastener metal roof system is made up of the following components and materials:

• Roof decking
• Starter lock strip
• Underlayment (High heat ice and water shield)
• Metal panels (steel, copper, aluminum, etc.)
• Clips
• Z bar
• Ridge capping

Unfortunately, I can’t go into much depth about each component in this article. However, I wrote another one that breaks down each component and its function. 

2. The paint warranty on a hidden fastener metal roof 

A (steel) hidden fastener metal roof comes with a painted finish called Kynar 500. Major steel manufacturers use a patented process to apply this painted finish to the panels of a hidden fastener metal roof. 

Kynar 500’s main purpose is to protect the metal panels from the elements and keep the color you choose from fading. However, it also comes with a 30-year paint warranty once it’s installed. 

The great thing about the Kynar 500 painted finish is that it doesn’t just disappear after 30 years. However, you do need to start budgeting for a roof replacement once you hit the 30-year mark. 

3. How long a hidden fastener metal roof lasts

The biggest reason why homeowners are interested in a hidden fastener metal roof is its lifespan. It’s actually one of the longest-lasting roofing materials available for residential roofing. 

You should have no problems getting 30 years out of a hidden fastener metal roof as long as it’s properly installed. The lifespan could even get up to 50 years in ideal conditions. 

However, the lifespan will be cut short if the Kynar 500 painted finish is scratched or damaged during installation. This exposes fresh steel to moisture in the air and leads to rusting. 

This makes hiring a local roofing contractor with experience installing hidden fastener metal roofs that takes all the proper precautions during installation crucial to your investment.

How much does a hidden fastener metal roof cost?

Now you know what a hidden fastener metal roof is and 3 things you need to know about it. But there’s still one important thing that’s not covered here, pricing. 

The biggest concern most homeowners have about getting a hidden fastener metal roof replacement is how much it's going to cost. Unfortunately, the roofing industry shies away from talking about pricing. 

I believe in being honest and transparent. That's why I wrote another article breaking down the cost of a new hidden fastener metal roof. 

The team at Bill Ragan Roofing has provided high-quality metal roof replacements in Nashville and surrounding Middle Tennessee areas 1990. When working with us, you can count on getting the most out of your new metal roof.

Check out How Much a Standing Seam Metal Roof Costs to learn the budget you'll need for a new metal roof.