Profiled metal roofing – neoprene washers damaged

Causes

UV damage

Cause

UV damage

Repair

  • although neoprene generally has good weather resistance, long-term exposure to high levels of UV from the sun can lead to neoprene washers becoming less flexible, cracking and potentially disintegrating. Where this is happening the washers should be replaced
  • in Acceptable Solution E2/AS1, neoprene washers are required for fixing pressed metal roof tiles (8.3.7 (a)), profiled metal roofing (8.4.8.1 (c)) and profiled metal wall cladding (9.6.6 (e)). (With pressed metal tiles, the requirement would likely only apply to the bottom run where the bottoms of the tiles are supported by the fascia. Tiles should not be top fixed elsewhere but through the vertical tile turndown/lap.)
  • neoprene washers are also a requirement in some roofing manufacturer installation guides and some BRANZ Appraisals for roofing products
  • remove the affected fixings. Where the steel fixing itself is in good condition, replace the neoprene washer with new and reinstall the fixing
  • replace damaged or corroded fixings with new. Metal roofing manufacturers usually recommend screw fixings, with a minimum of 12 gauge and a minimum of class 4. Use class 5 in very severe environments such as close to a surf beach. Factory-coated profiled metal roofing manufacturers do not recommend using stainless steel fixings in coastal areas as they increase the risk of corrosion
  • with profiled metal roofing, fixings must be through the crests (tops) of the profile, and screws must penetrate the purlins by a minimum of 30 mm. Tighten to give a good seal without distorting the profile of the roof by overtightening/overdriving
  • always tell someone when you plan to work on a roof. Follow this guidance around using ladders and scaffolding safely