How to Cut Corrugated Metal Roofing?

Corrugated metal roofing is increasingly popular due to its superior durability, affordability, and ease of installation. Corrugated metal roofing is manufactured from recyclable materials, providing good weather protection and fire and insect resistance. Corrugated metal roofing may also give any structure a fashionable, modern appearance.

Corrugated metal roofing is a popular option for many commercial and residential buildings due to its cost-effectiveness and durability. Installing a corrugated metal roof requires specific techniques and tools to ensure a safe and successful installation. Cutting corrugated metal roofing can appear daunting to the uninitiated, but it can be straightforward with the right tools, proper technique, and safety precautions. 

Choose Appropriate Protection/Safety Gear

When cutting corrugated plastic and metal roofing, it is essential to consider your safety first. Select the appropriate protection/safety gear before beginning the process. It includes the use of safety gloves, goggles, and closed-toe shoes. You should wear a dust mask to avoid inhaling metal particles or dust. Use a stable ladder to reach your work area and ensure that the ladder is on a flat surface.

Gather The Necessary Tools

The essential tools for cutting corrugated metal roofing include tin snips, a circular saw equipped with a carbide-tipped blade, and a drill with a carbide-tipped bit. Safety glasses and gloves should also be worn to protect the eyes and hands from flying metal shards. A straight edge and a measuring tape are necessary to ensure precise and accurate cuts. Once the necessary tools have been gathered, the corrugated metal can be cut according to the desired specifications.

Make Sure the Surface Is Level

Before successfully cutting corrugated metal roofing, you must ensure the surface is level. The best way to do this is to use a leveler and check the surface for discrepancies. A hammer and chisel might be necessary to even out uneven areas. Once the surface is level, you can begin cutting the corrugated metal roofing.

It is vital to use the proper tools for cutting the metal. A circular saw is the best type for this task, as it can cut through the metal easily.

Measure and Mark the Desired Length of The Metal

When measuring and marking a desired length of corrugated metal roofing, measuring and marking the material for accurate cutting is essential. Begin by measuring the desired length of the metal with a tape measure, ensuring the dimensions are precise and accurate. Mark the desired length with a permanent marker, creating a visible line on the metal that will make it easier to begin cutting. Use a permanent marker that won’t easily be rubbed off or washed away in the rain. Once the desired length is marked, you can begin the cutting process.

Make A Straight Cut with A Circular Saw 

Cutting corrugated metal roofing can be done quickly and precisely with a circular saw. First, ensure the circular saw blade is sharp and has a minimum of 18 teeth per inch. The saw should be set to the depth of the metal paneling. A circular saw with a guide rail ensures a straight cut. Before cutting, mark the desired area with a marker or chalk. Ensure the cut line is straight and the blade is parallel to the line. Secure the metal paneling before cutting, ensuring it is not lost or slipping. When cutting, use a slow and steady movement, letting the saw do the work. If the saw is pushed too hard, it may cause the blade to become damaged, leading to an inaccurate cut.

When using a circular saw, make sure to set the depth of the saw to the thickness of the roofing material. Wear protective goggles and cut them with a sharp blade. Ensure your blade is the same width as the grooves on the metal sheet. Carefully guide your saw along the cut line, avoiding sparks. If you are cutting a large sheet, it is recommended that you secure it with clamps to prevent it from shifting. Once the cut has been made, use a file to remove any sharp edges.

Secure The Metal Roofing with Clamps

Secure the metal roofing with clamps by first measuring the dimensions of the roofing and then cutting the metal with a metal shear. Be sure to wear safety goggles and gloves when cutting the metal roofing. Once the roofing has been cut to the appropriate size, attach the clamps to the roofing to ensure a secure fit. The clamps should be evenly spaced, each placed approximately 12-18 inches apart, depending on the width of the roofing. Once the clamps are secure and the roofing is fitted to the desired area, the roofing is ready for installation.

Secure The Edges with Sealant or Caulk

Secure the edges of the corrugated metal roofing with a high-quality sealant or caulk to prevent moisture from entering the seams and causing damage. Carefully cut the metal roofing panels to the desired size using a sharp utility knife or tin snips, and wear protective gear while handling the sharp edges. Once the panels are cut, apply the sealant or caulk along the edges on the top and bottom. Allow the caulk or sealant to cure completely before proceeding with any other roofing project.

File Off Any Sharp Edges with A Metal File

When working with corrugated metal roofing, it is essential to take precautionary measures to ensure a safe and successful installation. When cutting corrugated metal roofing panels, filing off any sharp edges afterward with a metal file is recommended. It will help prevent potential injury or cuts and reduce the risk of metal shavings entering the eyes. Filing the edges of the metal should be done carefully and thoroughly, paying close attention to any minor, hidden edges to make sure they are adequately smoothened. It is also essential to wear protective gear like safety glasses and gloves when filing off edges to prevent any potential harm.