Standing seam cladding systems
Standing seam roofing uses secret-fix or concealed clip fixings with upstanding seams that interlock between adjacent panels, leaving no exposed fasteners on the roof surface. This makes it suitable for low-pitch applications and architectural projects where appearance and weathertightness are priorities. Data is sourced from manufacturer product pages and technical documentation.
| Manufacturer | System | Module width (mm) | Seam height (mm) | Min pitch (°) | Fix type | Gauges (mm) | Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Euroclad | Vieo (EC 25-454) | 500 | 25 | 3° | Secret/concealed clip fix | 0.6, 0.7 | Roof / Wall |
| Architectural roofing and cladding. Low-pitch capable. Very low puncture risk — no exposed fasteners. | |||||||
| Lindab | SRP25N Coverline | 500 | 25 | 12° | Standing seam, interlocking | 0.6 | Roof |
| Roof cladding. Traditional standing seam aesthetic. Minimum 12° pitch. | |||||||
| Cladco | 30/500 Standing Seam | 500 | — | 4° | Secret fix clips | 0.5, 0.7 | Roof / Wall |
| Economic secret-fix option. Good for agricultural and industrial buildings. | |||||||
| Tata Steel | Colorcoat Urban standing seam | — | — | — | Standing seam / secret fix (profile dependent) | — | Roof / Wall |
| Architectural applications. Available in wide colour range with Colorcoat finishes. | |||||||
Standing seam vs box profile — when to use which
| Consideration | Standing seam | Box profile (trapezoidal) |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum roof pitch | 3–4° typical (some systems to 1°) | 4° typical for standard box profile |
| Exposed fixings | None — secret clip fixing | Exposed through-fasteners |
| Thermal movement | Clips allow panel movement — suits long runs | Fixed at each purlin — more suitable for shorter runs |
| Panel length | Often continuous (no end laps needed) | End laps required on longer runs |
| Aesthetics | Clean, architectural appearance | Industrial/agricultural appearance |
| Cost | Higher — system and installation | Lower — standard product, quick installation |
| Typical use | Commercial, public buildings, long spans | Agricultural, industrial, portal frame |
Common questions
What is a standing seam roof?
A standing seam roof uses interlocking steel panels with upstanding seams that are mechanically seamed or clip-fixed along their length. The seams stand proud of the panel surface and there are no exposed fasteners penetrating the roof skin. This eliminates the potential leak paths associated with through-fastener systems and allows thermal movement of the panels relative to the supporting structure.
What is the minimum roof pitch for a standing seam system?
Minimum pitch varies by product. Some systems such as the Kingspan KS1000 LP insulated panel can be used from 1.5°, and the Euroclad Vieo single-skin system from 3°. The Lindab SRP25N requires a minimum of 12°. Always check the manufacturer's current installation specifications, as minimum pitch affects drainage and weathertightness design.
How is thermal movement managed in standing seam roofing?
Steel panels expand and contract significantly over the temperature range seen in UK buildings — typically 30–40m of steel will move 10–15mm between summer and winter. Standing seam clips slide on the panel, allowing movement without stressing the panel or fixings. This is why standing seam is often preferred for long continuous runs where a through-fastener system would generate significant thermal stress at each fixing point.
Can standing seam cladding be used on walls as well as roofs?
Yes. Several systems, including the Euroclad Vieo and Cladco 30/500, are suitable for both roof and wall applications. On walls, the standing seam runs vertically, providing a clean architectural appearance. Some manufacturers offer different clip and fixing details for vertical wall applications. Check the manufacturer's approval for wall use, as not all products in a range carry the same certification for both orientations.