Condensation Elimination

The Truth About Metal and Condensation

It is an immutable law of physics: Condensation forms beneath ALL metal roofing when warm, moist air comes into contact with the cold underside of the metal panel.

When a roofing company tells you that their metal shingles or direct-to-deck metal panels don't produce condensation, they are ignoring physics. The real question isn't whether condensation forms, but how the roofing system handles it.

The Problem with Direct-to-Deck and Single Strapping

When metal shingles or standing seam panels are screwed directly flat against a solid roof deck (with only an underlayment between them), the condensation that forms on the underside of the metal has nowhere to go. It sits trapped against the underlayment, eventually leading to deterioration, mold, and rot over decades.

Some contractors use a "single-strapped" horizontal system to save money. While this raises the metal off the deck, the horizontal strapping acts like a dam, trapping condensation water and preventing it from draining down to the eaves. The wood strapping absorbs this trapped water and rots prematurely.

The Double-Strapped Solution

We exclusively use a Double-Strapped System (vertical counter-battens followed by horizontal battens).

• Open Drainage Plane: The vertical battens create an unobstructed downward channel. When condensation inevitably forms on the underside of the metal, it drips down and drains harmlessly off the edge of the roof.
• Continuous Drying: The 1.5-inch continuous air gap provides constant airflow, rapidly drying any remaining moisture and keeping the wooden strapping and underlayment bone dry.

By using Above Sheathing Ventilation via double strapping, we guarantee that your roof deck remains dry, healthy, and rot-free for the entire 50+ year lifespan of your roof.