Understanding standing seam profiles

By New Tech Machinery.

Learn about New Tech Machinery’s SSQ200, SSQ210A, SS450 and SS450SL profiles and what makes each one unique!

In this article, you’ll learn about two variations of the 2″ mechanical seam panel profile NTM offers — the SSQ200 and the SSQ210A, as well as two variations of our popular 1.5″ snap lock panel profile, the SSQ450 and SSQ450SL. 

SSQ200 versus SSQ210A mechanical seam profiles

While the SSQ200 2” mechanical seam and the SSQ210A 2” ARMCO mechanical seam may look similar, there are notable differences.

The SSQ200 is a standard 2″ mechanical seam profile, while the SSQ210A Armco-Style profile adds an additional down leg, intensifying the strength due to more material at the seam. Because of that extra down leg, the SSQ210A is a more popular choice in demanding areas that experience severe weather and wind.

Commercial projects often gravitate towards the SSQ210A ARMCO or 2” mechanical seam due to their strength, making them ideal for large commercial roofing jobs. On the other hand, residential projects may steer clear of these profiles — owing to the higher cost tied to material and labor without the need for extra durability. Also, residential roofs tend to have higher slopes, so the need for a 2” leg isn’t as necessary as for commercial projects. Note that both versions of this profile can double lock, as some mistakenly believe that it’s only possible with the SSQ210A.

If you run the SSQ210A profile, make sure to factor in the extra leg when calculating your material width needs. It will take another half inch or so of coverage to account for the extra down leg.

SS450 versus SS450SL snap lock profiles

Another pair of profiles that can be run with the same roller system is the SS450 and SS450SL, available in all three of NTM’s standing seam roof panel machines: The SSQ II, the SSH and the SSR MultiPros. Both are snap lock panel profiles, but they differ fundamentally in their locking mechanisms and the types of clips applied.

The SS450 profile applies the clip to snap lock onto the adjoining panel with a flair on the clip that wraps over the male leg of the panel. This makes installation very straightforward and simple and allows the panel to move with typical metal expansion and contraction. The SS450 profile is a popular option for residential applications due to its attractive look and easy installation.

The SS450SL differentiates itself from the SS450 by incorporating an added bump on the male leg that allows the panel to snap lock onto itself (and still utilizes a clip to hold the panel down to the substrate). 

The clips used for the SS450SL profile are different from those used for the standard SS450 profile, so please note that if you plan on using both styles of this profile, you will need different clips. Industry acceptance leans towards the more widely tested SS450 profile. The clip for the SS450SL attaches over the male leg. Industry standards leans towards the widely tested SS450.

The basic difference is that the SS450 snap locks using the clip itself, whereas the SS450SL snap locks onto itself where the male leg and the clip hold the panel down by wrapping over the top of the male leg.

Several factors come into play when choosing between SSQ200, SSQ210A, SS450 and SS450SL profiles. Understanding project-specific requirements, such as aesthetic preferences, structural needs and project budget, is vital. Each profile provides unique benefits and understanding their differences enables you to make informed decisions for standing seam metal roofing systems.

Contact New Tech Machinery for information or quotes on our SSR MultiPro Jr., SSH MultiPro and SSQ II MultiPro roof and wall panel rollformers or for any NTM machines, accessories or panel profiles.