Best Screws for Metal Roofing
Metal roofing screws do two jobs: clamp panels through wind uplift and seal every hole against rain for decades. That means hex heads with EPDM sealing washers, threads matched to wood or steel purlins, and corrosion ratings that outlive the panels. Color-matched heads finish the job.
What to Look For
- EPDM sealing washer under every head — the actual waterproofing.
- Metal-to-wood vs metal-to-metal threads — match the purlin.
- #10 or #12 gauge — uplift loads demand diameter.
- Galvalume-compatible coating — dissimilar metals corrode.
- Drive to compress, not crush — flattened washers leak early.
Top Picks
1. ST Fastening ZXL WoodBinder #10 x 1-1/2 in Best overall
ZAMAC-capped EPDM washer with a lifetime rust warranty — the residential metal-roof standard.
Check price on Amazon →2. ST Fastening Maxx SteelBinder #12 x 3/4 in Metal-to-metal
Self-drills steel purlins with no walking — for commercial and post-frame roofs on steel.
Check price on Amazon →3. Hillman #10 x 1-1/2 in hex washer roofing screws Best value
Big-box EPDM roofing screws that cover sheds, barns, and porches for pennies each.
Check price on Amazon →What to Avoid
Avoid
- Drywall or deck screws — no washer, no seal, guaranteed leaks.
- Overdriving — crushed EPDM washers fail years early.
- Mixing metals — bare steel or copper on galvalume invites galvanic corrosion.
Also in the toolbox
- Long 1/4-in magnetic nut setter — reaches panel ribs without scratching
- Roofing safety harness kit — metal roofs are slick — tie off
FAQ
How many screws per metal roofing panel?
Roughly 80 screws per square (100 sq ft) for through-fastened panels — one per rib at each purlin line, plus stitch screws on laps. Follow the panel manufacturer schedule; wind zones need more.
Metal-to-wood vs metal-to-metal roofing screws?
Metal-to-wood screws have sharp wood-biting threads for purlins and decking. Metal-to-metal screws are TEK self-drillers for steel purlins. Using wood threads in steel strips; using TEK in wood over-drills — match the purlin.
How tight should metal roofing screws be?
Snug enough to compress the EPDM washer slightly — you should see a small ring of rubber at the washer edge, not squirting out. Most pros use a clutch driver or depth-sensitive nose to repeat it across hundreds of screws.
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