Game-Changing Eave Tools for Metal Roofing? Flash-Brake Benders & Hemlock Tested

Every metal roofer has to constantly be cautious of scratching panels, especially when bending eave and rake hems. What if you could eliminate that frustration?

Today on The Metal Roofing Channel, metal roofing expert Thad Barnette reviews a full lineup of metal roofing tools from Flash-Brake – including their original Eave Edge Bender, the Paint Saver Bender, and the Hemlock seaming tools. Thad breaks down cost, features, pros & cons, and shows you real-world bending and hemming demos on a mock-up so you can decide if these tools belong on your trailer. Tools covered in this video:

→ Flash-Brake Original Eave Edge Bender – 18″, 24″, and 36″

→ Flash-Brake Paint Saver Bender – 18″, 24″, and 36″ with plastic inserts

→ Flash-Brake Hemlock Seaming Tool – short and long versions

→ Optional 90° handle bracket and replacement inserts/parts

Key pros of Flash-Brake tools:

►Aerospace-grade aluminum – lightweight, durable

►Bolt-on, replaceable handles and blades

►1/8″ gap to fit over striated metal roofing panels

►Paint Saver plastic inserts to protect factory finishes

►Hemlock seaming tool provides a clean, consistent eave hem

►Long-handled Hemlock keeps installers further from the roof edge for added safety

Key limitations to consider:

►Higher price point vs. traditional hand seamers and clamps

►Larger size on the Paint Saver compared to the original Eave Bender

►Current availability mainly online (limited distribution at supply houses for now)

►Hemlock currently best suited to eave hems, not bullnose rake hems along ribs