Closure strips for metal roofing play a vital role in preventing major problems in buildings with metal roof systems. These specialized foam rubber strips fill the gaps between metal roofing panels and the underlayment to create a critical seal for your structure.
Properly installed foam closure strips deliver multiple benefits beyond simple gap filling. They create a tight seal between the panels on a metal roof and minimize water infiltration or condensation buildup underneath the structure. The strips also work as insulators that help reduce noise from wind or rain. Your building’s interior stays protected from pests, dirt, debris, rain, and snow – thanks to these outside closure strips.
These small but mighty metal roofing components have a significant effect on your roofing system’s long-term performance. The strips resist water and last long, with specific design features to handle harsh weather conditions. This piece explores the importance of closure strips, available types, installation best practices, and maintenance tips for maximum roof protection.
What are closure strips for metal roofing?
Metal roofing closure strips are dense foam rubber components that measure about 1 inch thick and 1-2 inches wide. These strips seal the gaps between panels and the roof deck. They fit between the roof deck (the base where your roof rests) and the high points of the metal panel waves. Manufacturers design these strips in specific shapes that match different panel profiles to prevent water, pests, and debris from entering your building.
Types of closure strips: inside, outside, and vented
A metal roofing system uses three main types of closure strips:
- Inside closure strips seal the inside of the panel profile under the eaves. These strips attach to the panel’s bottom and are commonly known as “eave closures”.
- Outside closure strips sit at the ridge between the panel’s outside and the ridge cap. The strips go on top of the panel and usually include adhesive backing to make installation easier.
- Vented closure strips protect against the elements while ensuring proper roof ventilation. These engineered strips let hot, moisture-laden air escape through open cells but block wind-driven rain, dirt, and debris.
Closure strips also come in open-cell and closed-cell variants. Open-cell strips allow air flow while blocking unwanted elements. Closed-cell strips use denser material to create a complete seal.
How they fit different metal roof profiles
Manufacturers design each closure strip to fit specific panel profiles. Common profiles include:
- 7/8″ corrugated inside/outside foam closure
- 1/2″ corrugated inside/outside foam closure
- R-Panel inside/outside foam closure
- Western Rib® (7.2 Panel) inside/outside foam closure
- Western Wave® inside/outside foam closure
Standard strips come in 3-foot lengths to match typical panel widths, with beveled ends that combine smoothly. Some manufacturers offer longer rolls between 10 to 50 feet for bigger projects.
Common materials used in foam closure strips
The main materials used in closure strips are:
- High-density polyethylene foam that offers durability and weather resistance
- Open-cell polyurethane foam that adjusts through compression or expansion
- Dense foam rubber with moisture-resistant properties
Quality closure strips contain UV stabilizers and fire-retardant additives to last longer. Premium options feature “dove-tail” linking systems that create cleaner seams during installation.
Why are foam closure strips for metal roofing important?
Foam closure strips are vital protective elements in any metal roofing system. They do much more than just fill gaps, and their benefits affect a roof’s performance and longevity in many ways.
Preventing water leaks and moisture buildup
The main job of foam closure strips is to create a weather-tight seal that stops moisture from getting in. These strips lower the risk of water leaks and stop condensation from building up under the structure. They seal gaps between metal panels to protect your building from rain and snow driven by wind. Quality closure strips will help your metal roofing system last longer by stopping moisture damage before it starts.
Blocking pests and debris
Small gaps between roof panels give unwanted visitors plenty of room to get in. The strips create a barrier that keeps out pests like insects, birds, and rodents that could damage your roof. Quality strips fit tightly to seal off entry points and protect your building’s structure by stopping debris from getting in.
Improving insulation and energy efficiency
These closure strips add extra insulation to keep indoor temperatures stable. This feature helps a lot, especially when you have extreme temperature changes. The air pockets in the foam create a thermal break that helps optimize energy use and can lower your heating and cooling costs throughout the year.
Reducing noise and light penetration
Outside closure strips create a sound barrier that cuts down on noise. They reduce the effects of rain, wind, and traffic noise. Metal roofing panels usually have open spaces between their highs and lows – foam strips fill these gaps to block unwanted light. Less light means less glare and cooler buildings in warm months, which saves more energy.
How to install metal roofing closure strips
Your metal roof’s protection depends on proper closure strip installation. My 30 years of roofing experience shows that correct installation techniques make a significant difference in how well the roof works.
Choosing the right closure strip for your panel type
Your metal panel profile needs verification before purchase. The closure strips should match your roofing panel’s corrugation pattern. Most catalogs display foam closure strip shapes to help you find the right match. Note that corrugated foam closure strips can serve as both inside and outside closures—you just need to flip them over.
Step-by-step installation at the eaves
Position butyl tape one inch from the eave edge. The foam closure strip should be embedded onto the exposed adhesive after removing the release paper. Local building codes dictate how to fasten metal panels through the closure strip. This method creates a weather-tight seal at your roof’s bottom edge.
Installing outside closure strips at the ridge
Butyl tape should be applied about four inches from the ridge peak on the roof panel. The closure strip needs to be embedded after removing the protective paper and before the ridge cap installation. The strip peaks should point downward to fit the panel corrugations properly.
Using butyl tape and sealant effectively
Butyl tape delivers superior adhesion and can handle extreme roof temperatures. The tape creates permanent bonds without hardening or cracking, making it ideal for side and end lap sealing. Leaks can be prevented by applying sealant over screw holes before fastener reinstallation. A properly installed butyl tape will give you a watertight barrier that stays flexible during thermal expansion and contraction.
Maintaining and replacing closure strips metal roofing
Foam closure strips don’t last as long as the metal panels they protect and need regular maintenance. I’ve run my roofing company for decades and seen how good maintenance helps these strips work better.
Signs of wear and when to replace
You’ll notice several clear signs when foam closure strips need replacement. These strips dry out, break down, and sometimes hang loose as they get older. Look for cracks, splits, or strips that have lost their bounce – these are clear signs they’re not sealing properly anymore. Don’t wait to replace damaged strips because they could mess up your whole roof system.
How often to inspect foam closures
Make strip inspections part of your regular roof maintenance. You should do a full check at least once a year. Areas with tough weather need more frequent checks. It’s important to check your roof after big storms to catch problems early.
Impact of weather and UV exposure on lifespan
Weather plays a huge role in how long closure strips last. UV rays and weather conditions break down the foam faster. The strips wear out quicker in places with extreme temperatures, heavy rain, and strong winds. Even though quality strips come with UV protection and fire-resistant materials, they still need regular checks. Good ventilation and a clean roof surface help these important parts last longer.
Conclusion
My decades in the roofing business have taught me that small components often make the biggest difference in how a roof performs. Foam closure strips are definitely one of these components. These simple foam pieces protect against water infiltration, pest intrusion, and debris buildup that could damage your metal roofing system.
Many installers overlook closure strips, but they offer benefits well beyond simple weather protection. These strips reduce noise from rain and wind, boost energy efficiency through better insulation, and stop unwanted light from getting through. Your metal roofing system’s lifespan increases substantially when you install these strips properly.
The right closure strip type must match your specific panel profile. Inside strips shield the eave areas while outside strips protect the ridge sections. Vented options give you a perfect balance between protection and airflow. Your roofing configuration will work best when you choose the right match.
You should check your roof regularly to prevent early failure. Annual inspections, especially after severe weather, help you spot wearing strips before they harm your roof’s integrity. Closure strip replacement costs are minimal compared to fixing structural damage from water or pest intrusion.
Metal roofs are a big investment in your property. Quality closure strips deserve attention despite their small size. These affordable components give you exceptional value through better protection, improved comfort, and longer roof life. Your metal roofing system needs these vital components installed and maintained properly to reach its full potential and expected lifespan.