How do you know if 22-gauge steel is the right choice for your metal roofing project?
The short answer is, it could be, depending on where your project is located and what you’re prioritizing.
At Sheffield Metals International (SMI), we sell metal coils and sheets and metal roofing accessories to contractors across the country. Our Commercial, Architectural, and Technical (CAT) team also provides testing and engineering, weathertight warranties, and installation support on standing seam metal roofing systems.
In this article, we’ll deep-dive into the advantages and disadvantages of 22-gauge steel, and when it could work best for your metal roofing project. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll have a better grasp of whether this metal thickness is right for your project.
What Is 22-Gauge Steel?
22-gauge steel is 0.0299” thick. It’s thicker than both 26-gauge steel (0.018”) and 24-gauge steel (0.023”), which are both commonly used on standing seam metal roofing applications. While 22-gauge is used on metal roofs, it’s usually reserved for unique projects that require extra thickness.
While 24-gauge steel will cover the majority of standing seam projects, there are cases where 22-gauge makes the most sense.
22-Gauge Steel Advantages
Rigidity
Since 22-gauge is thicker than both 26 and 24-gauge metal, it has better rigidity, meaning it will not dent or warp as easily as thinner materials. This rigidity can help protect the material during installation and defend against oil canning.
A common cause of oil canning is uneven decking. If the decking isn’t flat, then the metal installed over it will shape to that deck, creating a wavy appearance. But the more rigid metal is, the better it will be able to retain its shape and resist taking the form of the decking underneath. So while 22-gauge metal won’t be able to completely get rid of oil canning, its thickness can help deter it.
Defense Against Extreme Weather
22-guage is also effective in areas prone to extreme weather — specifically regions that experience intense hail. As for areas with snow, or the threat of wildfires, or coastal applications, it will fare like other thicknesses since the raw material — steel — is still the same. For coastal applications near salt spray, aluminum is recommended to defend against corrosion.
Available Testing and Engineering
The thickness of 22-gauge steel makes it a viable option for standing seam metal roofing applications, both residential and commercial projects.
24-gauge steel is often the minimum thickness required for standing seam systems. 24-gauge is also the most popularly used for standing seam roofs, so this thickness will have the most widely available testing and engineering.
Since 22-gauge is thicker than 24-gauge, the testing and engineering for 24-gauge can be used on 22-gauge. This would not be the case for 26-gauge steel, as it’s a thinner material and not as durable as 24-gauge.
Disadvantages
Cost
22-gauge is more expensive than 26 and 24-gauge due to its thickness. Its cost is often one of the main reasons 24-gauge steel is a more popular choice. 24-gauge steel offers similar durability and engineering at a lower price point.
Workability
There’s no getting around the fact that 22-gauge steel is harder to work with than thinner-gauge metal. Cutting and hemming will be more challenging as it’s thicker than 24 and 26-gauge. Hand snips will be harder to use when working because of the thickness. You may want to use a power seamer with 22-gauge. 22-gauge is heavier, but this is almost negligible because metal roof panels are already lightweight.
Its difficult workability can slow down installation, so it’s important to factor in the extra time if you’re planning on using 22-gauge steel for your metal roofing job.
Fewer Color Options
22-gauge isn’t as popular as 26 or 24-gauge steel, so there likely won’t be as many standard or stock color options available. The options available may also depend on where you’re located and what supplier you’re using, but in most cases, there will be less of a selection for 22-gauge.
As always, if a customer has their heart on a particular color, Sheffield Metals can custom paint nearly any finish as long as minimums are met.
Not Compatible with all Portable Rollforming Equipment (Compatible with New Tech Machinery’s SSQ)
22-gauge steel isn’t compatible with many portable rollforming machines because of its thickness and its limited uses. If you don’t have a machine that can handle 22-gauge, then you may have to look at getting a rental or buying prefabricated panels for your project. New Tech Machinery’s flagship SSQ II MultiPro Roof and Wall Panel machine is one of the few rollformers on the market that can run 22-gauge painted steel. The SSQ can run residential profiles, but the SSH and the SSR cannot run 22-gauge.
Just remember that not using a portable rollforming machine can take away some of the flexibility and other advantages that having an onsite machine provides.
22-Gauge Steel Best Uses
Areas Prone to Severe Hail
22-gauge steel is primarily used on projects in areas that receive frequent and severe hail. Hail will leave dents on metal roofs, but the more rigid a metal material is, the better chance it will have of resisting denting, or at least reducing the severity of the damage. If your project is in an area that receives severe hail, it’s worth considering 22-gauge steel. Adding structure in the panel can also help offset the appearance of hail damage.
You’ll just have to balance the cost and more challenging workability versus your home or building owner’s preferences.
When Oil Canning is a Major Concern
In some cases, the preferences of the home or building owners will be a major decider of what metal gauge used on the project. Some owners may be very concerned about the aesthetics of their metal roof — particularly how oil canning will make the finished product look.
Keep in mind, oil canning is strictly an aesthetic issue and doesn’t point to any structural problems. That said, for those looking for that sleek, streamlined appearance, it could be a sticking point.
While 22-gauge may not resist all the effects of oil canning, it can help reduce some of the waviness due to its rigidity. Choosing a low-gloss finish, using rib rollers to break up flat space, and installing panels with narrow widths are all other ways to prevent severe oil canning, or at least cover its appearance.
Looking for More Information on What Gauge to Use for Your Metal Roofing Project?
24-gauge steel is the most popular for standing seam metal roof applications and will serve the majority of projects. But for those projects located in areas that receive severe hail, or when oil canning is a major concern, 22-gauge steel could be the right fit. Some government and municipal projects may also require 22-gauge.
Which steel thickness you use will depend on your unique project and the preferences of the home or building owner. Your region, the scope of the project, and what is being prioritized in the project will all come into play.
By now, you should have a better idea of when 22-gauge steel should be used and whether it’s the right choice for your current project. If you’re looking for more information on which metal gauge to use, check out our related content in the Metal Roofing Center, including free videos, articles, tools, and downloads.
