These are our two most popular metal roofing systems, but they're designed for very different applications. Here's the real difference between snaplock and standing seam systems.
The Key Differences
Snaplock
- • Hooks together with snap-lock system
- • Aesthetic/architectural panel
- • Can be removed and reused
- • Suitable for steeper pitches
- • More decorative appearance
Standing Seam
- • Uses clips, seamed with machine
- • Permanent once installed
- • Designed for low pitches
- • More utilitarian/functional
- • Weather-tight seaming system
How They Work
Snaplock System
Snaplock panels hook together like a mechanical connection. The panels literally snap into place, creating a secure connection that can be disassembled if needed for maintenance or repairs. Importantly, the screws are positioned underneath the panels, protecting them from weather exposure and preventing them from loosening over time, which eliminates potential leak points.
This system is designed for aesthetic appeal - it's what you choose when appearance matters. The clean lines and defined ribs give buildings an attractive, finished look.
Best for: Buildings where looks matter, steeper roof pitches, situations where panels might need removal.
Standing Seam System
Standing seam uses clips and machine seaming. Clips are fastened to the roof deck, panels are placed over them, then a seaming machine rolls the edges together creating a permanent, weather-tight seal.
This system is meant for low pitches where water drainage is critical. Once seamed, it cannot come apart - it's a permanent installation designed for maximum weather protection.
Best for: Low-pitch roofs, maximum weather protection, situations where permanent installation is preferred.
Best Applications
Snaplock is the aesthetic choice. When you want your building to look good, this is the system to choose. The clean lines and defined profiles give buildings an attractive, finished appearance.
Standing seam is built for low pitches. This system excels when roof pitch is minimal and water drainage is critical. The seamed construction creates maximum weather protection.
Pitch guideline: Snaplock works well on steeper pitches, standing seam is designed for low-pitch applications.
Maintenance & Repairs
Snaplock advantage: Because it hooks together, individual panels can be removed for maintenance or repairs. If you damage a section, you can replace just those panels.
Standing seam consideration: Once seamed, the system is permanent. Repairs typically require cutting and re-seaming, making them more involved.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Snaplock if:
- Appearance and aesthetics matter
- You have steeper roof pitches
- You might need future panel removal
- You want the flexibility of a hook-together system
- You're doing residential or commercial with aesthetic requirements
Choose Standing Seam if:
- You have low-pitch roofs
- Maximum weather protection is priority
- You want a permanent installation
- Water drainage is critical
- You prefer the traditional seamed appearance
The Bottom Line
These are fundamentally different systems designed for different applications. Snaplock is your aesthetic panel - choose it when looks matter and you have adequate roof pitch. Standing seam is your low-pitch workhorse - choose it when you need maximum weather protection on flatter roofs.
The key is understanding what your project actually needs. Don't get caught up in marketing terms - focus on the technical requirements of your specific roof.