Best Way To Cut Metal Roofing, Siding and Sheeting!?

[@kennethharriger6152]

A carpenter showed me how to cut steel siding by taking a circular crosscut blade (the blade with the 1/8 inch teeth) and putting it in your circular saw Backwards...Makes a real nice cut .

[@stevehildreth1934]

Just a little noisy!

[@thomasirvin4159]

Also voice the warranty on the finish.

[@AlexBuckles-e7i]

One word (rust)

[@masjuggalo]

I've seen somebody do that with A rough cut blade backwards and they cut through a 3-in block of aluminum

[@gooma27]

Call them thumper blades in Australia

[@cluebin8398]

A friend of mine works at a roofing company and they only allow using sheer type tools for cutting roof metal, the reason being that it swages the galvanized layer over the cut so that there is less steel exposed to the weather and thus less of a future rust problem. Personally I use the circular saw and just make sure the cut edge is hidden and the factory edge is the one exposed to weather. There is usually always one edge hidden under break molding or the ridge cap, so you just plan your cuts so that the cut edge is out of the weather. The drill powered cutter here is called a nibbler. I've seen pneumatic nibblers but never a drill powered one, so that was great to learn about.

[@marcellemay7721]

I've tried all of those methods and by far the skill saw with a metal blade is the quickest, most accurate, and least fatiguing way to do it for straight cuts. A side grinder with a good cutoff wheel is my second go to and the drill powered shears are the third in order of personal preference and operator comfort. The shears are nice for circle cuts and complex cuts but they are tiring to use over time on straight cuts.

[@dillon2107]

I watched a you tube video years ago of a man in Australia cutting steel siding. He cut a slit about an inch deep into the side of the sheet and then used only his hands to rip it into! It came out square ! I had to try it,and it worked every time.I EVEN LET MY GRANDDAUGHTER DO IT. tRY IT YOURSELF, YOU'LL BE AMAZED.

[@f.demascio1857]

I discovered that by accident once. It was amazing.

[@randypond7499]

Did he tear it length size or width

[@dillon2107]

@@randypond7499 widthwise. to cut it lengthwise, he took a thin metal cable and tied a knot in one end and put a handle on the other end. he then cut a notch in both ends and ran the cable under the tin and back to the notch in the other end . he then stool on the tin and pulled the cable, ripping the tin into.

[@markm8188]

Right. 🤔

[@laciloon9112]

In two

[@awtistiaeth4699]

The trouble with using an angle grinder to cut galvanised sheeting is that due to the heat generated while cutting, you ruin the galvanisation for about 3/4 of an inch up from the cut and the sheet will rust if you don't cover straight away. You don't notice the damage until a few months after you cut, but it is definitely an issue to consider. Cheers! A very useful video. .

[@surgepro322able]

As far as I have been instructed, by using a scissor type of cutter, you will be re-sealing the cut edge. This helps prevent rusting. Speed maybe important to you, but long a lasting finish is more important to me. So the shear that attaches to the drill is the Cheaper, smaller, and best tool you demonstrated!

[@soennecken8]

The Colorbond roof sheets (painted zinc-coated steel) on my roof were cut, installed and trimmed by a roofing professional, who used rotary power tools. The steel started rusting immediately from the cut ends. The roof perforated in places after 5 years. I am now replacing the entire roof with the same material, but I am doing it myself. As the homeowner who has to live with the consequences, I will not trust a roofing professional: as this video shows, they will prefer to save 30 seconds on a cut and leave the homeowner with a huge cost in a few short years. Incidentally, the manufacturer of Colorbond recommends that the sheets be cut with shears (hand or powered) and not with rotary tools for this reason.

[@Moonshinedave1]

Thanks for the video. A couple years ago, I had eight sixteen sections of metal roof replaced due to storm damage, I kept the replaced sections as most were in good shape, I have used them on a couple smaller outbuildings. I used a grinder with a cutoff disc. But, I can see if a person has a lot of cutting to do an investment in a metal skill saw blade would be worth it.

[@IceAgeSquirrel2008]

Thank you for this informational video. I love it when I prepare myself for a half day of research and then find all my answers in the first KZbin video I find and a video that is 8 minutes and 34 seconds long. I am grateful!

[@flick22601]

I've tried them all. The negatives you stated with the circular saw is because you used the wrong saw. Circular metal cutting blades need to turn slower than the speed of a wood cutting one. Evolution, whose blade you used, makes a relatively inexpensive saw for just this purpose. Other companies including Milwaukee make them at significantly higher prices. The major advantages I see with using them is that it is much easier to hold a steady line. Sandwich the metal between two boards held in place with clamps and use them as a guide. Beautiful angle cuts are a breeze. Best of all, in my opinion, is that you can stack multiple sheets of metal and the cut will still be straight and much much faster. Another advantage over say a cutoff wheel is that you don't heat the metal and the paint along the cut does not blister allowing rust to start.

[@mikewatson4644]

You are correct on using a saw made for cutting metal. They rotate slower. Harbor Freight has one for less than $100 that works excellent. The metal cutting blade does throw bits of metal, but the cut is cool so you aren't damaging the paint.

[@PaulMeyer-v8t]

Howdyyawl from the land down under. I'm a construction worker by trade, the best tool would be the shears. The little blue tool is called a nibler, as it nibles😂. Over all, pretty good test. Keeping it real😊

[@TamSweetT]

We use skill saws with diamond incrusted edge on blade that is made for cutting tile work great never had any problems using them been using them for 15 plus years you can get them that are made for your grinder and they last for years

[@dougb8207]

Thank you. I was wondering what the pros use.

[@norain31]

i made a jig and use a skill saw with a fine tool blade makes a beautiful smooth cut and its fast .learned that from a old master carpenter . but thanks for the video i also use actual air sheet metal nippers and good ole tin snips for wierd cuts .

[@charliecharlie9377]

Any method that involves cutting by generating heat will cause the finish to rust prematurely. I've heart that on the gulf coast it can happen in as little as 1 year on metal that is supposed to last up to 50-100 years. So don't use a grinder or a circular saw. Midwest Mfg states you can use a jigsaw. I'm sure the recip is fine too. I use a combination of a good old hack saw, tin snips, cordless shears, and nibbler depending on the cut. Good luck!

[@rogerknight2267]

I never considered my jigsaw for cutting metal sheets. What type blade do I need to use?

[@mrjagart]

Fine tooth metal cutting blade. Wide for straight cuts, narrow for curves.

[@janking2762]

A jigsaw is a good tool for cutting metal sheets, really thick foam sheets

[@josephpotterf9459]

I watched a Spanish speaking crew roof my house cut with tin snips less than a minute per cut. They have crazy skills.

[@terryfleming964]

The easiest method and quickest is to place a 2x4 across the metal sheet, score the metal with a knife cut a small nick to get it started and simply tear it off. No sparks. Straight cuts. No expensive equipment required.

[@davidstubbs2042]

As long as it is 29 ga... 26 or 24 doesn't work that way.

[@lateknightcreations]

I have some vintage sheet metal. There is no way you are “tearing” that stuff with your hands!

[@terryfleming964]

@@lateknightcreations The stuff I was working with (Chicken coop) was older than dirt. I trimmed off the rusted ends and had no issues.

[@deanduchene4035]

The utility knife is the way I cut steel length way. Score it then flip the sheet over and bend it at the score and it will snap in half. I just ripped roof steel 23’ that way the other day. Been doing that for 38 years. Cross cutting I use a tin snip or nibbler.

[@martinadams6067]

You should show how much each tool affected the finish on the metal. The finish is a major factor of the warranty.

[@tominsc9909]

Like another poster said, metal circular saw blades are not designed to run at the speed of a wood cutting circular saw. Also, metal cutting circular saw blades are usually rated for different thicknesses so make sure you choose the correct blade for the best and easiest cut.

[@elrobo3568]

A lot of people make the same mistake you did when using a sawzall. the foot should be held against the metal surface to allow the blade to cut and not vibrate the metal.

[@davidwarren4569]

The Australian standard for cutting zincalume sheeting specifies cutting with sheers or snips not metal cutting blades. Cutting blades burn the coating making the edge susceptible to rusting and spreads sparks across the surrounding surfaces resulting in rust spots. Cutting with snips spread the coating across the cut surfaces.the nibbles you use comes close but as you say is slow. Any roofer worth his salt only uses snips.

[@johndough9187]

Good luck with that on 60 pieces of corrugated roofing.

[@davidwarren4569]

@@johndough9187 perhaps you should order the sheets to length?

[@johndough9187]

@@davidwarren4569 That would be real nice if available.

[@davidwarren4569]

@@johndough9187 I’m surprised that in the US you can’t get that. We have roofing suppliers that will form and cut to order.

[@tomtam558]

​@@davidwarren4569 Hey mate, thanks for your comment. How would you cut a colorbond fence post? It is angular and a bit thicker than a colorbond fence sheet.

[@rmac0]

Thanks for the video. What does the least damage to the paint?

[@hillbilly4christ638]

Sparks and sheet metal are a bad thing for a lot of reasons. I have been using a milwaukee m12 nibbler successfully. It does have some drawbacks, but can cut specialized cuts very well.

[@joels.5237]

How does it work on the corrugated part

[@timothylongmore7325]

@@joels.5237 not so well. It can be done but you lose a lot of control.

[@joeteejoetee]

The metal crescent shaped metal derbies left behind by the "Nibbler" (Discus?) tool are VERY SHARP ! It's fine for indoor work where you can broom-sweep up, but I used one working over a deck and the C shaped shards embedded into the deck, and you can easily track the shards back indoors where customers/pets may be used to walking around bare-footed. I know this because I cut/hurt myself a day later walking in my kitchen. Beware of innocent looking little C shaped derbies: They are RAZOR SHARP !

[@metalroofing6708]

Thanky you for that tip!

[@timothylongmore7325]

We used to use a radial arm with a regular blade in backwards for aluminum and steel siding. Didn't care for that , lol and probably why I'm deaf as a post now. Most guys back in the day didn't even where safety glasses.

[@bobmiller8485]

The only way to cut it and not have to touch up your cut with paint so it doesn't rust is with a nibbler. You can use a shear for straight flat metal, and the nibbler for corrugated so you can go up and down the ribs. Even if the metal is galvanized and or painted it will rust. The galvanization is just a coating that burns off when you use a saw blade of any type. But if you don't mind painting the ends after you cut it do what you want. But I will say those tools I mentioned won't kick back jeopardize your health

[@jeremy888ferris7]

I got pneumonia after mine kicked back

[@jackcampbell4244]

Its a circular saw. Skil is a brand name. The last tool is called a nibbler

[@deanduchene4035]

I score the steel with a utility knife and flip it over and bend and snap it. 38 years experience doing that. Just did it to 23’ steel roof the other day. Cross cutting I use a large tin snip or nibbler

[@james23Sin]

Try a Wachtel sheet metal cut. Found it on R.R Building that thing is fast and accurate

[@tonywachtel7215]

Hey, this is Tony Wachtel, inventor of Wachtel Panelcutter. Thanks for the support.

[@richardcranium5839]

what i'd like to know is how you treat the cut edge bare steer will rust quickly and with any colored panels its a pain to get the edge without it showing. of course use the cut edge on the uppermost part to reduce exposure.

[@travismathis6084]

Look up a sheet metal “field shear” it’s pricey but it’s well worth it for pros and farmers that work with sheet metal often, it’s a giant scissor that cuts the material in one motion and doesn’t damage the shape of the profile or ruin the finish

[@springhollerfarm8668]

I find a shear type tool works great on flat metal but a circular saw with a carbide 80 tooth (plywood) blade works fast, cuts neat and creates little heat. If you don't get in a hurry, a coarser blade can work as well, like a 40 tooth and even a 24.

[@fhuber7507]

$50 DeWalt power shear attachment for cordless drill. Note that this needs somefudging to fit anything other than DeWalt. It's what the pros used putting up my barn and "barndominium" house shell. I bought one and it is a huge improvement vs grinding wheel or the Diablo metal cutting blades you can get for battery power circular saws. I tred the wheel cutter for the battery powered drill and it is almost impossible to cut a straight line. It does great curves especially to the right. (If you need a 12 inch diameter hole this is the tool)

[@matthewcrossley7598]

Sparks from the grinder cause the sheet metal to rust if it comes in contact. Faster isn’t always the best option unless you don’t mind replacing damaged sheets in the future

[@danielfurr5409]

Where do i get a "metal" skill saw blade? Is it carbide tipped? Name brand?

[@keithbanther3385]

The term is sawz all. Good vid..thanks!

[@birdness]

Very common way people pronounce it...

[@camtheelectrician]

@@birdnessjust because something is common, doesn’t make it correct

[@SierraBonitaBuilders]

How about ( recip )saw, for reciprocating saw, covers all brands

[@timothylongmore7325]

Nibblers for long cuts. Hand shears for cross-cuts. I do mostly barns and haven't found a square one yet. I'd use a skillsaw with metal cut if doing multiples only. I never do though. You cut a thousand dollars worth of steel you want to be sure. I know guys that do and predrill screws.

[@wbriggs111]

I leave an 1/2" extra using the grinder with a cut off wheel with the first cut then cut the final cut with aviation snips for the exact cut. Leaving a scratched or burned edge will leave an ugly rusted edge.

[@SupercovenGW2]

Thank you so much sir. THIS is the video we needed.

[@stanrogers9744]

Use a concrete blade in a skill saw and you can cut all day long with it with very little shavings. I built pole barns for 7 years

[@BradEsson-tj5xj]

Which evolution blade were you using? Teeth count? Thanks

[@satterfieldelectric5504]

I LIKE THE NIBLER THAT YOU PUT IN A DRILL. THAT IS THE BEST MONEY THAT I HAVE EVER SPENT. I LIKE IT BETTER THAN THE MILWAUKEE METAL SHEAR THAT I PURCHASED.

[@lanier1000]

As a rule you never want to take either hand off the sawzall.....it can bounce back and stab or cut you or jab your eye out. .

[@davidryan1562]

It's a reciprocating saw Sawzall is a brand name

[@lanier1000]

@@davidryan1562 Right. Just like folks say "Crescent wrench" when talking about an adjustable wrench. It's just easier to say. .

[@davidryan1562]

@@lanier1000 I've had so many people get me on the same term I had to get somebody at least LOL

[@lanier1000]

@@davidryan1562 :)

[@billg4630]

Skill saw is best..but use a worm drive...its smoother and slower rotation makes it easy

[@sandywalker6628]

Thank you for the tip on the best tool for metal. Very helpful!

[@ljc4810]

By far the best way to cut metal sheeting is! Have somebody else cut it for you. Period

[@joemccarney4155]

What about “inside” penetrations, hole openings (square/round)?

[@josephhartman8073]

That tool is called a nipper, makes wicked shap half moon shaped cuttings. I always used circular saw with backwards blade.

[@WilliamCollins-sh6lm]

Nick it say 1/2" put vise grip on tear it along the board is quickest ...

[@ronsnow8342]

This was a great video, I not gonna lie.

[@daviddaigrepont9485]

I wish you would have discussed which was more difficult to cut accurately with

[@skvinson1966]

Helpful comparison. Thanks! ... Your b/g music is pretty loud.

[@Deefolderz8e]

I would more happy with the finish it gives more so than the speed of the cut tks

[@omahanb1]

I have an eight inch metal cutting saw! It has a closed guard so no chips that's the best tool .

[@coopersrace7277]

If you are going to instruct, always think safety first. Never use a corded power tool unless the cord is over your shoulder…..unless of course you want an instant suntan and new hair style!

[@Bay0Wulf]

Have to admit I got more useful info and advice from the comments below.

[@tonyacerra2329]

What about ear protection?

[@randyjerrett3385]

You’re not supposed to cut steel with paint with a grinder or a saw it gets too hot and it doesn’t seal the end of the cut and gets too hot for the paint that’s on the metal. You’re supposed to shear it , like with tin snips

[@shawnwhite5523]

So when's The Cutting demonstration going to happen did the stuntman do it in between videos

[@lateknightcreations]

Thank You for this video!

[@JuanRamos-yz4nt]

Bailing wire makes the best cut and simple n faster

[@daleclarke2849]

Using cut off tools like skill saw or grinder. Heats the metal damages the finish and causes rusting later on

[@jamesbeaman5944]

Two things I find missing. One, ear protection and two a mask. I’ve been fabricating for 45+ years. I see hearing aids in your future!!! Take care of your lungs too. Saw is definitely the best!!

[@roywarriner8441]

You should be wearing a long sleeve cotton shirt when using the grinder and you used the circular saw improperly, the saw shouldn't be on the offcut.

[@r0j0e]

you forgot the og.. tin snips xD

[@powerwagon3731]

Last one is a nibbler. The circular saw leaves nasty shavings. I’ve used all of these and I prefer a grinder and an hand held power shear for flat panels.

[@crossroads5771]

Gauge makes a big difference

[@michaelrevoire2266]

You don't know how to use a sawzall. You must keep the shoe in contact with the material you are cutting. No matter what you use, you must treat the cut end.

[@dedmotorhed]

Circ saw, I heard flip your blade around the wrong way. No flying BB’s shrapnel. It comes out like a strip.

[@chanceberg832]

I used A Milwaukee Skill Saw Had No problems......Battery operated My new Property has No Power ....I mis measured tin For 31 feet because, Im not Good With A Tape measure....needed 27 feet ... Milwaukee Skill Saw Did Great...Wear Gloves and Safety Glasses ..It Does Shoot Metal..

[@theoryofpersonality1420]

5:23 I believe this tool I'd for cutting circles.

[@williamsnipes7608]

Why didn't you try nibbles? I worked in a metal stamping plant for 32 years and they had electric "nibblers". It took little nibbles out of sheet metal. Slicker than any of those and also they now make shears that are like electric scissors. I'd do more investigation.

[@allancollins4516]

Time might be of some concern, but if what you’re using voids your warranty, not sure if that time savings. Grow a pair and some arm muscles and try some hand metal shears , bend over, hold the street with your right foot on the ground, cut with right hand while lifting cutoff piece with left hand . Your setting up on a table with clamps , drawing a line down into the valleys, is all dicking around, cuz you’re too lazy to touch your toes. I’m in my sixties and do most buildings alone , still touch my toes. Anything that heats up the metal while cutting voids the warranty, it’s about metallurgy, changing the molecular structure of the metal and it’ll start rusting immediately after you leave the job sight, now if the owner doesn’t care about the warranty, you’re laughing.

[@elricofarmer1561]

What about a nibbler?

[@jeffmoleskivintageiceracin5935]

The disfeos was a nibbled the last one on the right at the end of the video

[@james23Sin]

The disfeos is a nibbler

[@josephhooper8655]

trimming metal roof and grinder was quick but need to slow down be more tidy. circular saw with metal blade too powerful on thin roof.

[@stevehunt9703]

The shears can work well except across the rips wbere they struggle. Dewalt mini saw 3.5 inch blades, diamond or abrasive works better than anything else by a long way and leaves a clean edge. Also far less noise.

[@philjohnson9744]

Milwaukee actually makes a metal cutting skill saw and metal cutting shear.

[@WilliamWagner-hx6jt]

Should be cut with shears or snips to pinch and seal the cut edges. This is what steel siding manufacturers require.

[@happydayz5321]

Get the metal hot with skilsaw/grinder etc and YOU WILL HAVE HAVE RUST muey pronto.

[@jamestreat1875]

Your not worried about the finish warranty of the metal using high speed cutters? Heat is bad for finished materials.

[@tonyhayes5188]

Order the correct length...

[@davidpoulsen3640]

Great job on this presentation !

[@SamJ6131]

Thin grinder disc don't last long.... so buy a bunch of them if that is your choice..... also make sure that the blade doesn't pinch. Internet is full of pictures of injuries when zipcuts fly apart!

[@davidpoulsen3640]

That Disfeos tool is a nibbler .

[@jefferysill5539]

Nibblers for the win, grinder not abbroved by any manufacturer

[@shawnwilliams5453]

Where are the tin snips? A grinder definitely will lead to rust, those shears don't do well going over the ribs and the sawzalls a demo tool and the blade or the skill saw is expensive and those little shards of metal cut you. Best way is snips, then nibbler and if you want speed use a grinder next to your line then use snips to cut your actual line "you have to remember to wipe the panels to keep from rusting" 😎

[@masjuggalo]

Umm did dude call the circular saw a sawzall like it was a reciprocating saw?

[@thomasirvin4159]

If you cut the tin with a saw or grinder it will void the warranty on your finish.

[@dh5594]

Its NOT a skill saw.. skill is a brand name. Its a CIRCULAR saw. Same with the RECIPROCATING saw you called a sawzall. Sawzall is a brand name by Milwaukee

[@LittleJack-qe1ft]

I was told tin snips best will not rust. I don’t know. Anyone heard that.

[@Bay0Wulf]

The Difius? Is known as a Nibbler. Having cut a lot of that material I use almost exclusively a grinder with a cutoff blade.

[@makodaniel4885]

With hand scissors like on the thumbnail right, I came here to see you cut the metal with a regular pair of paper cutting scissors.

[@marknielsen2482]

Hands down, electric shears work the best.

[@keithgordon3035]

The cut edge in the dry.

[@anthonyhitchings1051]

My Dad showed me how to cut it using the back of a full size handsaw

[@tonybarracuda3505]

First of all I don’t take advice from someone who doesn’t even know the name of the tools they’re trying to demonstrate ( btw that thing you couldn’t identify is called a nibbler) second,,,,,,,ffs learn how to use a reciprocating ( sawzall) saw. Keep the shoe in contact with the material you are trying to cut and you’ll have a much better day.

[@keereekee]

Also called the circular saw a “sawzall) lol

[@MegaRiffraff]

👍🏻

[@theebrainfixer]

I would use the circular saw also but the kid misused the sawzall (reciprocal saw) by not placing the foot of the tool against the metal. Obvious he didn't understand how to use it,

[@mslindqu]

No mention of the quality of the cuts. Seems like an obvious observation.

[@fredA1234]

I find that a plasma cutter works great.

[@gwenbarnes4738]

Why do people call a saws all, a saw zaw? Mine says Saws All right on the tool...

[@rodneybray3245]

What gauge was the metal?