What are Pole Barn Screws? FAQ & More

Metal roofing screws play a crucial role in ensuring secure and long-lasting metal roof installations. Whether you’re working on a residential roof, a commercial building, or a pole barn, choosing the right fasteners is key to structural integrity and leak prevention. In this post, we’ve enlisted the help of our team of experts and compiled the most frequently asked questions about metal roofing screws to help you make informed decisions for your project.

What Are Pole Barn Screws?

Pole barn screws are an industry term, but more appropriately, they are metal roofing screws - which are fasteners specifically designed to secure metal panels to wooden structures like barns and sheds. They feature self-tapping threads for easy installation and rubber washers to create a watertight seal and prevent corrosion.

Should I Use Nails or Screws for a Pole Barn?

Screws are the preferred option for pole barns because they provide a more secure hold and resist loosening over time, especially in high-wind areas. They also offer better structural integrity than nails.

What Size Screws Are Used for Metal Roofing?

The standard size for metal roofing screws is typically #10 or #12 diameter. Screw lengths vary from 1 to 2 inches, depending on the thickness of the roofing material and the substrate. However, larger diameters and lengths are available and may be necessary - especially for replacement projects.

Do You Need to Pre-Drill for Roofing Screws?

In most cases, pre-drilling is unnecessary since metal roofing screws are self-tapping and designed to cut through metal without pre-drilling. However, for thicker or harder materials, pre-drilling may be recommended to ensure precise installation. Always consult the manufacturer to ensure you follow installation best practices.

What Screws Should I Use for Metal Roofing?

Self-tapping screws made from galvanized steel or stainless steel are ideal for metal roofing. These screws often come with EPDM rubber washers to create a watertight seal and resist corrosion, ensuring durability. The material you choose should depend on your environment and necessary corrosion resistance.

Do You Screw Metal Roofing on the Rib or Flat?

Screws can be installed either on the flat sections or the ribs of metal roofing panels, and both methods are widely accepted within the industry. Each option has its pros and cons, depending on the specific needs of the project.

• Flat Installation:
• Placing screws on the flat part of the panel generally offers a more effective seal because the washer compresses evenly. This approach reduces the risk of water penetration, making it ideal for areas prone to heavy rainfall.
• Rib Installation:
• Installing screws on the ribs provides less exposure to water and snow since these raised sections allow moisture to run off more easily. However, the washer may not compress as effectively on curved surfaces, which could affect the tightness of the seal.

"We've been ridiculed for recommending both installations because it comes down to preference. Generally, the way someone is taught is the way they prefer to install these, but both methods are industry-standard."

- Matt B.

How Long Should My Metal Roofing Screws Be?

The length of the screws depends on the thickness of the roofing material and the substrate. A common length is 1 to 1.5 inches, but thicker materials may require longer screws, up to 2 inches. 

What’s the Difference Between Metal-to-Wood and Metal-to-Metal Screws?

Metal-to-wood screws have coarse threads to grip wood securely. Metal-to-metal screws feature fine threads and self-drilling tips for easy penetration into steel purlins without pre-drilling.

How Do I Avoid Overdriving Screws?

We recommend using a clutch drill with adjustable torque to avoid over-tightening, which can damage the rubber washers.

“Installing screws is like cooking—too little pressure and the gasket won’t bulge properly, too much and you’ll tear the washer.”

- Matt B.

What Happens If I Use the Wrong Screw Size?

Using oversized screws can create problems, such as screws sticking out inside barns or sheds, posing a safety hazard. Always choose the appropriate screw size based on the material thickness and application.

How Do I Handle Color Matching Issues?

Color names can vary across brands. For instance, ‘Crimson Red,’ ‘Bright Red,’ and ‘Rustic Red’ may appear identical but are labeled differently by manufacturers. Using our color matching tool can help ensure the screws match your roofing panels perfectly.

What Screws Are Best for Pole Barns?

The best screws for pole barns depend on the specific application and environment. A variety of options are available, each suited to different needs:

• Galvanized Screws: A great option for general exterior use, offering reliable rust resistance for typical pole barn applications, including siding and roofing installation.
• ZAMAC-Coated Screws: These zinc-aluminum alloy screws provide excellent durability and rust protection, making them a solid choice for barns and other outdoor structures that require long-term resistance to the elements.
• Stainless Steel Screws: Ideal for animal confinement buildings where exposure to moisture and ammonia requires superior corrosion resistance. These screws ensure long-lasting performance in harsh conditions.

Choosing the right type of screw ensures optimal performance and longevity, whether your project involves animal confinement, roofing, or general barn construction. Matching the screw material to the environmental conditions will help prevent corrosion and maintain structural integrity over time.

How Do You Screw Down a Metal Roof?

This is a very brief synopsis of the process, for more detailed information check out our blog How to Screw Down Metal Roofing.

1. Align the roofing panels properly to ensure they fit together smoothly.
2. Place screws on the flat sections of the panels, spaced about 12 to 18 inches apart horizontally.
3. Ensure vertical screw lines align with structural supports underneath.
4. Tighten the screws snugly but avoid over-driving, as this could damage the washers and compromise the seal.

Further Questions About Metal Roofing Screws

We offer a wide variety of fasteners and it can be daunting to decide which product best suits your needs. Our team of experts has a depth of knowledge in the fastener industry. If you have any additional questions be sure to reach out and we'll be glad to help.