How to fix insulated roofing panels with their correct fixings

Transcript

Before we look at how to install a panel, we need to know what fixings are right for the job.

Composite panels have two fixings, a main and a secondary fix. The main fix is used to secure the panel to the purlin. Which type of fixing you use depends on whether you’re fixing into steel or timber.

If it’s steel you’ll need to know the thickness of the purlin. Up to 3mm, you can use a light section, if it’s over 3mm then you’ll need a heavy-duty screw which has a much bigger cutting tip. Note, all of our fixings either use an 8mm hex head for standard fixings or an 11mm bi-hex for moulded fixings.

If you’re fixing into timber, and that’s the most common type of purlin used for DIY and small projects, use a woodtec timber fixing. This requires a minimum of 40mm of bite into the timber to sufficiently secure the panel.

We’re now ready to install the panel.

Ensure it is aligned and squared with the handing on the correct side and the cutback over the centre of the gutter. Mark out the centre of the purlins, either with a tape measure or with a straight edge, marking in the centre of each trough along the sheet. Buildings can vary so using this technique is useful when the purlins aren’t 100% straight.

All of our fixings are pre-tapping, so there’s no need to pre-drill. Be careful not to over or under tighten as this can allow water in and cause damage.

Select a slower speed on your drill gun for greater control. Swarf may be produced as the drill screw cuts into the metal. Remove all swarf gently so that it does not damage the coating of the sheet.

Use three fasteners per purlin across the sheet, and six fasteners at the end lap either side of the profiled rib to ensure compression of seal.

Now the first sheet is in, we have to lay our lap mastic for the next sheet to sit on top.

Be sure to watch our video on how to lay lap mastic.

Once you have a run of butyl lap mastic down the crown from top to bottom, peel off the tape ready to fix the next sheet. Align the panel with the first sheet and fix into the purlins. Repeat the process until all sheets are laid and secured with main fixings.

Now you can apply the secondary fixings to the overlapping joint with stitchers at a maximum 450mm centres. Be sure to watch our other how-to videos.