Decoding the Installation of a Metal Roof Ridge Cap

Ridge Cap Types

Usually, roof metal ridge caps are of two kinds. You can fit both at any slope and paint them to complement the roof material. 

• ‍Closed: These ridge caps prevent water from invading your roof structure by forming a tight barrier. Sealed completely on all sides, they feature closures made of dense foam to fit over the roof’s standing seam panel ribs. These neat ridge caps are apt for areas that receive heavy rain. 
• Vented: This type of ridge cap on metal roof keeps moisture at bay and improves air circulation. However, you must use extra materials to bar the entry of insects or debris. Avoid these ridge caps in areas that see rainstorms or high winds.  

‍Also Read: 10 Reasons Your Metal Roof Leaks in Heavy Rain

Tools for Ridge Cap Installation

To install metal roof ridge caps, keep the following tools handy:

• Chalk line to mark the position of closure strips
• Carpenter pencil to demarcate the placement of both ridge pieces and closure strips
• Caulk gun for applying sealant
• Drill with magnetic bits to keep screws properly positioned until secured
• Ladder for accessing the roof
• Eye protection to stay safe against flying debris
• Metal ridge cap in pieces that are 10 to 11 inches in length and can cover 10 feet
• Metal screws along with sealing washers for securing ridge caps in the right positions
• Metal roofing closures that prevent rainwater, debris, and insects from invading the gap between the ridge cap and roofing panels
• Metal snips to cut off additional pieces of metal
• Ridge cap vent if you are using vented caps
• Safety harness for your protection while on the roof
• Roofing gloves to prevent cuts and injuries
• Shoes that are comfy and have decent traction
• Sealant tape for installation of closure strips
• Silicone sealant for sealing closure strips in the right place and overlapping

How to Put Ridge Cap on Metal Roof

Now let’s look into the actual process of installing the ridge cap that most companies offering commercial and residential roofing services follow. To get onto the roof, put on your safety harness correctly, position the ladder safely, climb up, and ask a friend or neighbour to send up the tools via a pulley system. Then follow these steps.

• Ready the End Pieces: Measure an inch from the ridge cap’s edge and make a guide mark. After opening the hems up to the 1-inch mark, cut away an inch from the hem on both sides. Mark the metal roof ridge cap’s centre to align it with the slope of the roof. Use a protractor and speed square. Then use a hand seamer for folding the uncut side in an angle of 90 degrees. Next, fold the side that is cut downwards at 90 degrees. One end piece needs to be prepared for each side.
• Clean the Installation Area: As mentioned before, metal roof ridge capping happens after the panels are installed. So, ensure the area in question is devoid of dirt, sawdust, leaves, and leftover materials.
• Decide the Direction of Ridge Overlaps: Position overlaps in spots that are out of sight, to get a smooth ridge line.
• Demarcate the Ridge Line: The ridge cap will create a smooth line by covering the edges of your roof’s panels. So, use the chalk line to create a guide. Then centre a ridge cap piece on the roof’s peak and mark the lower edges of the cap on both sides. Every 15 feet, repeat this.
• Stick Closure Strips in the Right Place: Take an inch above the chalk line and run a length of sealant tape along the ridge’s full length. Repeat the same on the roof’s opposite side. Then take the backing off the sealant tape to run closure strips along the ridge’s length and interlock the same. This step is unnecessary in case of vented ridge cap.
• Set Up a Ridge Cap Vent: Your metal roof ridge cap should have an opening of 2 inches if you are using the vented variety. After unrolling the vent, accommodate it in the space between the panels of the roof.
• Install the First Ridge Cap Piece: To centre the ridge cap, follow the chalk lines and the ridge. After accurately positioning the cap, firmly press it down on the closures. Lock in the ridge cap in place with metal screws (2-inch). Drive them through alternate panel ribs.
• Overlap and Install the Second Ridge Cap Piece: On the inside of the ridge cap and a couple of inches from the overlapping edge, apply sealant. Lap the ridge cap piece that is 6 inches over the first piece’s end and centre it with the help of chalk lines and the first piece. After pressing the second piece in its correct place, use screws for installing the same.
• Continue Installing Other Ridge Cap Pieces: Follow the above step to keep installing ridge cap sections along the entire ridge of the roof.
• Install the Final Piece: To install the final piece of ridge cap on metal roof and make the fit right, you must trim it first. Mark the piece after measuring from the prepared edge and ensure it’s longer than the final gap by 6 inches. Then cut the edge and lock in the final piece in the correct position.

Also Read: Commercial Roof Installation: A Step-By-Step Guide

Conclusion

While you know how to install a ridge cap by now, the process can be complicated and time-consuming. Hence, consider consulting a reputed company that offers services related to roofing in London. Or opting for a flat roof instead of a ridged one can reduce your hassle. The cost of flat roof replacement is lower too and the maintenance is usually simpler. However, if you go for an experienced and reliable company like FastRoofing, which offers various residential and commercial roofing services, you can rest assured that the roof and ridge cap installation will be a breeze. To discuss your requirements, contact the experts here and trust them to do a top-quality job.