Need To Know
Dimensions for a Perfect Fit

Most seaming problems can be avoided by forming panels with the correct dimensions. For years there has been a misconception about the proper height of seam legs.

Ewald's Advice on Portable Rollforming

Portable Rollforming Equipment has found welcomed acceptance in today's thriving metal roofing industry. Many roofers find this equipment to be as as indispensable as a pair of 'snips'. In the past ten years, this type of machinery has matured and kept pace with today's demands.

Expansion and Contraction Explained

Details the different temperature considerations when installing panels.

Myths of Expansion and Contraction

Standing seam roofing has been around for about 1500 years - so has this misconception: you must use tapered legs to compensate for expansion of material.

Directory of Profiles

A collection of panel dimensions from various machine manufacturers. Includes information on what tools are available for each panel.

Measuring Rise Over Run

Roof pitch is measured "rise over run". This is measured by taking a level and placing it at any point on the slope of the roof. Now take a measuring tape (or scale) and measure straight down to the roof at the 12" mark on the level.

Power Seamer vs. Hand Seamer

Power seamers can double lock as fast as 30 feet per minute (fpm) and single lock as fast as 45 fpm. Why, then, would it be necessary to use a hand seamer? There are several conditions where hand seaming is appropriate or preferred.

UL Testing Explained

The reason why a machine manufacturer cannot provide UL90 (wind uplift) testing.

SMACNA Testing Explained

Defines the Static Water Penetration Test, Dynamic Water Penetration Test and Uniform Structural Load & Deflection Test.

Step by Step
Brake Forming a Valley

This is a completed valley detail. The following illustrations and steps will describe how to form this detail on a brake.

Brake Forming a Valley with Center Rib

This is a completed valley detail with a center rib. The following illustrations and steps will describe how to form this detail on a brake.

Brake Forming a Double Hook Valley

Double Hook Valley

This is a completed double hook valley detail. The following illustrations and steps will describe how to form this detail on a brake.

Brake Forming a Drip Edge

This is a completed drip edge detail. The following illustrations and steps will describe how to form this detail on a brake.

Brake Forming a 1" Standing Seam Panel

The following illustrations and steps will describe how to form this detail on a brake.

Brake Forming a Double Hook Valley with Rib

This is a completed double hook valley with a center rib detail. The following illustrations and steps will describe how to form this detail on a brake.

Setting Up a Decoiler

Instructions on how to load a coil onto a Decoiler using a strap and forklift.

Forming a Double Lock with Hardy Tool

Illustrated instructions for forming a double lock standing seam using the ESE 002 Hardy Tool

Preparing a Seam for the Power Seamer

Hand seaming steps done before clamping the K9 Power Seamer onto a seam.

Using the 001 and 099

How to complete the 180 degree (or double lock) bend using the 001 and the 099 hand seamer.

K9 Support
Adjusting the Seaming Pressure

Behind each spring rod there are 3 disc spring washers (part# K9286 / Locking Handle Assembly). These spring rods can be used to increase or decrease seaming pressure.

Single Lock Conversion

Behind each spring rod there are 3 disc spring washers (part# K9286 / Locking Handle Assembly). These spring rods can be used to increase or decrease seam pressure.

Adjusting Seamer Height 1" or 1-1/2"

The seamer can be adjusted to seam panels with 1" or 1-1/2" high legs. The adjustment can be made by changing the height of the outrigger legs.

Converting for .040 Aluminum

The ESE K9 Power Seamer comes from the factory set with clearance for .032 Aluminum maximum. However, the K9 can be converted to run .040 Aluminum.

Preparing the Seam for the K9 Seamer

In order to use a power seamer the panels must be prepared at the beginning of each seam. This can be done with hand seamers.

Troubleshooting: Boxed Seam

Improper panel dimensions can lead to a boxed seam instead of a double lock standing seam. This may also cause the seamer to climb, pop or jump off of the seam.

Troubleshooting: Boxed Seam Tapering

Tapering your panel legs to accommodate expansion is not only unnecessary, it could inhibit proper seaming.

Troubleshooting: Flat Seam

Improper panel dimensions can lead to a flat seam when the female downleg is too long. This may also cause the seamer to climb, pop or jump off of the seam.

Cleat Support
Expansion Charts

Information on the rate of expansion and contraction. Covers various materials at different temperature changes.

Expansion Cleat Installation

To minimize movement of roofing panels a combination of fixed cleats and expansion cleats are required. The top part of an expansion cleat can slide back and forth in the base allowing the metal to expand and contract.

Using Cleats: Amount and Spacing

Guidelines on how many cleats should be used and correct spacing.

Panformer Support
Forming Roll and Shear Lubrication

Proper lubricants when running galvanized or lead coated coil. Also, proper lubrication of shear blades.

Adjusting the Shear Width

Information on adjusting the shear to cut efficiently. The cut-off shear should be set according to the width of the coil.