Snaplock Installation Guide
Professional installation instructions for contractors and builders
Important Safety Notice
Metal roofing installation involves significant safety risks. This guide is for experienced roofing professionals only. Always follow OSHA guidelines and use proper fall protection equipment.
Required Tools & Safety Equipment
Tools Needed
Safety Requirements
- OSHA-compliant fall protection system
- Cut-resistant gloves for handling metal panels
- Safety glasses with side shields
- Non-slip footwear with good ankle support
- Hard hat when working below other trades
- First aid kit readily available on job site
Step-by-Step Installation Process
Pre-Installation Planning
Proper planning ensures a successful installation
- Verify roof measurements and panel lengths
- Check weather forecast - avoid installation in wet conditions
- Ensure adequate fall protection is in place
- Organize panels and materials for efficient workflow
- Review architectural drawings and specifications
Underlayment Installation
Critical foundation for long-term performance
- Install high-temperature synthetic underlayment per manufacturer instructions
- Apply ice and water shield at eaves, valleys, and penetrations
- Ensure proper overlap - minimum 6 inches at ends, 4 inches at sides
- Secure with plastic cap nails every 12 inches on center
- Install drip edge at eaves and gables
First Panel Placement
Setting the foundation for proper alignment
- Start at the lower left corner of the roof (for right-handed installation)
- Align first panel with chalk line ensuring square installation
- Allow proper overhang at eave (typically 1-2 inches)
- Secure nail strip with appropriate fasteners every 12 inches
- Check alignment and square before proceeding
Panel Connection
Utilizing the snap-together design
- Position next panel overlapping the first panel's snap edge
- Press down firmly to engage the snap mechanism
- Listen for the 'snap' sound indicating proper connection
- Ensure panel lies flat with no gaps or buckling
- Secure nail strip with fasteners every 12 inches on center
Ridge and Hip Details
Proper ridge finishing for weather protection
- Install ridge venting if specified in design
- Cut panels to proper length allowing for thermal expansion
- Install ridge cap with proper overlap and fastening
- Seal all penetrations with appropriate sealants
- Ensure proper ventilation at ridge
Final Inspection
Quality control and warranty compliance
- Walk entire roof checking for loose fasteners
- Verify all panels are properly snapped together
- Check that all flashings are correctly installed
- Remove all debris and unused materials
- Document installation for warranty purposes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Over-tightening fasteners
✅ Snug fasteners to compress EPDM washer, but allow for thermal movement
❌ Inadequate fall protection
✅ Always use proper fall protection - no exceptions
❌ Forcing panels together
✅ Panels should snap together easily when properly aligned
❌ Ignoring thermal expansion
✅ Allow proper expansion gaps and don't over-constrain panels
❌ Poor weather planning
✅ Never install in wet conditions or high winds
Installation Video Guide
Watch our comprehensive installation video demonstrating proper Snaplock panel installation techniques.
Installation Video Coming Soon
Download Complete Installation Guide
Get the complete printable installation guide including detailed diagrams, fastener schedules, and warranty requirements.