Choose the correct equipment and tools to do the project in a safe and professional manner. Below is a list of suggested equipment/tools that will make your job easier.
For Contractors
Basic Equipment Required:
- Unloading or hoisting rig of the correct size for the lifts/lengths involved
- Slings for lifting device used
- Spreader bar as necessary
- Tie-off ropes
- Safety harness(es)
- Transit and long level
- Ladder(s)
- Duckboards/chicken ladder(s)
- Scaffolding with approved planking
- Suitable power source
- Extension cords with approved ground plugs/services
Tools Required:
- Metal folding tool.
- Sheet metal aviation type shears to include RH, LH, Straight, Overhead, etc.
- Power driven screwguns with proper bits – with depth setting nosepiece. Speeds vary with fasteners selected.
- Metal cutting equipment – nibblers, etc.
- Measuring equipment – tapes, scales, etc.
- Drills
- Caulk guns
- One piece layout square – fast groove
- Pop-rivet gun(s)
- Combination square(s)
- Chalk line
- Utility knives
- Hack saw
- Locking “C” clamp(s)
Best Practices:
- Wear safety gear, goggles, gloves and follow OSHA requirements for roof installations.
- Never cut the panels/trims with an abrasive cut-off wheel or a torch since it will damage the panel finish.
- Do not weld the panels/trims.
- Remove any small burrs left by cutting, screwing, or drilling.
- Remove the protective masking film immediately after the panels/trims have been installed.
- When unloading the roof panel, caution should be taken to avoid any damage to the panels. If a crane is used, make sure to use fabric (nylon) slings and blocking to prevent crushing. Always store materials on wood blocking. Slope the stored materials to afford drainage.
- Use appropriate type screws (wood, metal, self-drilling, etc.) that are sufficiently long enough to fully penetrate the solid and/or fixed roof substrate.
- Always do any cutting away from the finished roof areas. Make sure to clean up immediately so that materials are not left behind to damage roofing area and for general safety reasons. Remove drill spirals/chips as soon as possible since morning dew will cause these to rust and stain the panel finish.
- Always seal neoprene closures by applying an appropriate sealant to all contact surfaces.
- Always seat “Z” closures, joggle cleats, and like trims/closures in a continuous bead of sealant prior to fastening same in place.