Alexei Volkov
Corrugated plastic roofing is a popular choice for DIYers and professionals alike, thanks to its lightweight yet durable qualities. When it comes to installation, there are several methods for securing corrugated plastic roofing, with the most common approach being the use of roofing bolts and screws. However, the challenge arises when accessing the roof from the inside or when dealing with limited side access, requiring careful consideration of safety measures and the need for specialised tools or techniques. Proper installation is crucial, as it ensures the roof's longevity and protection against the elements. This includes understanding the type of roofing sheets and fixings required, such as Corrapol-BT Flexi Cap Screws or Roof Sheet Nails, and taking into account the potential for expansion and contraction with temperature changes.
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What You'll Learn
Using a drill to fix Flexi Cap Screws
Corrugated plastic roofing is a popular choice for verandas, sheds, garages, and lean-tos. When securing corrugated plastic roofing, it is important to use the correct type of fixings to ensure the roof is durable and weatherproof. One such fixing is the Flexi Cap Screw, which is designed to be used with corrugated bitumen roofing sheets. These screws are compatible with Corrapol Stormproof, PVC, GRP, and corrugated plastic roofing sheets.
The number of Flexi Cap Screws required depends on factors such as location, pitch, substructure design, and personal preference. However, a good rule of thumb is to use a minimum of 10 times the sheet length in metres. For example, a 2-metre sheet will typically require 20 fixings. It is important to note that you may need more screws if your location is particularly windy or exposed.
When using a drill to fix Flexi Cap Screws, follow these steps:
- Drill holes larger than the roofing screws. This is important as polycarbonate sheets expand and contract with temperature changes.
- Drill all holes when safely on the ground. This is much safer than drilling from atop the roof.
- Use the drill to fix the Flexi Cap Screws.
- Pop the caps once tightened to provide an effective waterproof fixing.
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Using a rubber mallet to fix roofing sheet nails
When securing corrugated plastic roofing, one of the methods you can use is the Corrapol-BT Roof Sheet Nails by Clear Amber. This method is beneficial for shorter lifespan applications as a more budget option. To fix these roof sheet nails in place, you can use a rubber mallet.
A rubber mallet is a great tool for driving nails into walls or wood without leaving any marks or damage. Its soft, non-marring head ensures that the surfaces you are working with remain undamaged, making it perfect for delicate projects. When using a hammer, a nail set may slip off its target, but if you place the nail set on the rubber mallet, it will stay in position.
When using a rubber mallet to fix roofing sheet nails, be careful not to overdrive the nails. This can lead to water penetration and shingle damage. Nails should be driven in just the right amount, so the shingle seals properly and securely.
In addition to fixing roofing sheet nails, a rubber mallet can be used to straighten out bent metal parts, tension components when reassembling furniture or machinery, and remove objects that are stuck together due to rust or corrosion.
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Using a roofing bolt and securing the nut from the inside
While it is not possible to easily secure corrugated plastic roofing sheets from the inside, you can try using a roofing bolt and securing the nut from the inside. However, this method will still require access to insert the bolt from the top and hold it while tightening the nut. If there is no access from above, it will be challenging to seal the fixing properly.
To use a roofing bolt and secure the nut from the inside, follow these steps:
- Start by fixing the roofing bolt through the peaks of the sheet, not the troughs. This is crucial for maintaining water tightness as water tends to drain through the troughs, so fixing there can cause leaks. Fixing through the peaks also provides a stronger hold as it clamps the peaks, spreading the force down through the troughs and covering a wider area.
- Drill holes for the roofing bolts, ensuring they are on the ridges and not in the valleys to prevent leaks. Pre-drill the holes using an electric drill with a 3⁄16 inch (4.8 mm) drill bit. Space the holes horizontally every 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) and vertically every 2 feet (0.61 m).
- Insert the roofing bolts from the top side of the corrugated sheet, through the holes you drilled in the previous step.
- From the inside, secure the nuts onto the roofing bolts. Hold the bolts steady while tightening the nuts to ensure a secure connection.
- Continue this process for each roofing bolt and nut, working across the width of the sheet.
- Finally, seal any visible seams with a sealant to ensure water tightness and durability.
By following these steps, you can secure corrugated plastic roofing using roofing bolts and nuts, although it is important to note that access from above is still necessary for inserting the bolts.
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Using a threaded nut fastener and a threaded bolt
Securing corrugated plastic roofing can be a challenging task, especially if you're dealing with limited access or safety concerns. One method you can consider is using a threaded nut fastener and a threaded bolt. This approach can be useful when you want to avoid climbing on top of the roof, which may not be safe due to the thin and fragile nature of the plastic sheets.
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to secure corrugated plastic roofing using a threaded nut fastener and a threaded bolt:
- Prepare the Roof Sheets: Before starting the installation, it's crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the roof sheets. Ensure that you have the correct side facing up, typically the UV-resistant side. Mark the drill holes, making them larger than the roofing screws to account for the expansion and contraction of the polycarbonate sheets due to temperature changes.
- Attach Threaded Nut Fasteners: Start by attaching threaded nut fasteners to the top (outside) of the roof. Place these fasteners securely on the outer surface of the roof, following the marked drill holes.
- Insert Threaded Bolts: With the threaded nut fasteners in place, you can now insert the threaded bolts from the underside of the roof. This method allows you to secure the roofing without having to climb on top. Make sure to use bolts of appropriate length that correspond to the height of the corrugated roofing.
- Tighten Securely: Once the bolts are in place, carefully tighten the assembly. Ensure that the bolts are neither under-tightened nor over-tightened. Under-tightening can lead to leak points, while over-tightening can put excessive pressure on the washers, causing them to fail or break.
- Consider Safety and Support: Remember to prioritize safety throughout the installation process. Ensure that your support frame can withstand wind and snow loads. Consider using plywood sheets to spread the weight if necessary. Additionally, be cautious when working at heights and follow proper safety protocols.
- Maintenance and Precautions: Corrugated plastic roofing may require regular maintenance due to its vulnerability to wind and weather conditions. Periodically inspect the fasteners and bolts to ensure they remain secure. Take note of any signs of corrosion or damage and replace the fasteners as needed.
By following these steps and paying close attention to safety and maintenance, you can effectively secure corrugated plastic roofing using threaded nut fasteners and threaded bolts. This method can help you avoid the challenges of working from above while still achieving a secure and functional roof installation.
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Using Corrapol-BT Flexi Cap Screws or Corrapol-BT Roof Sheet Nails
Corrugated roof fixings should always be attached through the peaks of the sheet, not through the troughs. This is because water mainly drains through the troughs, so drilling through them can cause leaks and moisture issues in the structure below.
If you are using Corrapol-BT Flexi Cap Screws, you should use a drill to secure them. The flexible cap provides improved waterproofing and helps prevent wind uplift on Corrapol-BT sheets. The flexible head of the fixing naturally curves over the peaks of the sheets. Make sure to pop the flexi caps shut once you have finished drilling.
If you are using Corrapol-BT Roof Sheet Nails, you should use a rubber mallet to secure them. Be careful not to overdrive the nails.
Before you start fixing your corrugated bitumen sheets down, install your first Corrapol Rock N Lock Gable Flashing (or Wall Flashing if against a wall). This helps keep the sheets running straight across and is easiest done before your sheets are secure. Leave the Rock N Lock on the opposite end uninstalled for now.
When you reach the last sheet in your run, measure the remaining space and trim the last sheet widthways to allow for the final overlap and the Rock N Lock Flashing space.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use a metal bracket or truss to support the roof. You can either buy one or make it yourself out of wood.
You can use a drill to fix the Flexi Cap Screws, or a rubber mallet to fix the Roof Sheet Nails.
It is not possible to easily secure corrugated plastic roofing from the inside. You would need to use a roofing bolt and secure the nut from the inside, but this would require access from the top.
There are two main types of corrugated roof fixings: Corrapol-BT Flexi Cap Screws and Corrapol-BT Roof Sheet Nails. Both are designed for use with corrugated bitumen roofing sheets.
To withstand high winds, you need to ensure that the support frame is sufficient. You can spread weight across the roof using plywood sheets.
