Can I Make a Wood Roof Look Like a Standing Seam?

Standing Seam Roofs

• Standing-seam metal roofs get their name from the way they work. These roofing systems are a series of metal panels with metal seams that sit above the panels’ level, giving the appearance that the seams stand up. Standing-seam roofs comprise the top layer of a roof and provide protection against water, moisture, snow and UV radiation. These roofing panels install on top of other roofing layers, such as waterproof membranes and wood sheathing.

Wood Roofs

• Wood roofs contain numerous layers of material. This material begins with trusses or joists, the roof’s weight-support and distribution network. Wood sheathing goes on top of this material followed by an adhesive or weatherproofing layer. The roofing’s top layer goes on top of this weatherproof or adhesive layer.

Imitation Standing Seam Roofing

• Because shingles comprise the top layer of most wood roofs, adding more material on top of the shingles makes a wood roof look resemble a standing-seam metal roof. Cut wood sheets to look like standing seam panels and paint them to look like metal, although these panels may affect the roof shingles’ performance. They may also rot and erode quickly with constant exposure to weather and UV radiation. Furthermore, you can install standing-seam metal roofing on a wood roof.

Building Code

• Check your local building code before undertaking any kind of roofing project. This code contains information on methods and materials you must use for construction of your roof. The provisions of your building code may prevent you from adding aesthetic layers, such as an imitation standing-seam metal roof made of wood, on top of the functional aspects of the roof. Contact a local building inspector who will advise you as to whether your roofing plans meet local code and are practical.