Can you cut metal roof panels with tin snips?

Quick Answer

Yes, you can cut metal roof panels with tin snips. Tin snips are a tool specifically designed for cutting thin sheets of metal like those used for metal roofing. With the right technique, tin snips can make clean, straight cuts through metal roofing panels.

Can You Cut Metal Roofing With Tin Snips?

Tin snips, also known as aviation snips, are scissors-like tools designed specifically for cutting thin metal sheets. They come in 3 main types:

• Straight cut – for cutting straight lines
• Right cut – for cutting to the right
• Left cut – for cutting to the left

Tin snips work by applying leverage and pressure to effectively shear through metal. With the right technique, tin snips can cut through roofing panels made of galvanized steel, copper, aluminum and other thin sheet metals.

Here are some key advantages of using tin snips for metal roofing:

• Make straight, clean cuts – The scissor action of tin snips creates smooth edges without jagged marks.
• Portable – Tin snips are hand tools that can be easily carried onto a roof.
• Precise cutting – Tin snips allow you to follow marked cut lines accurately.
• Inexpensive – High quality tin snips cost much less than electric alternatives like angle grinders.
• Quiet – Tin snips operate silently without noisy electric motors.

The main limitation is that tin snips can only cut thin sheet metal. Most roofing panels are 26 gauge or thinner, which is easily managed by tin snips. However, thicker materials like 16 gauge steel require electric shears or plasma cutters.

How to Cut Metal Roofing With Tin Snips

Follow these steps to cleanly cut metal roof sheets with tin snips:

1. Measure and mark your cut line – Use a straightedge and marker for straight cuts.
2. Clamp down the panel to keep it stable.
3. Align your tin snips blades along the cut line.
4. Make gradual, small snips working from one end of the cut to the other.
5. Apply firm pressure with both hands to fully close the blades.
6. Maintain straight blade alignment as you move along the cut.
7. If needed, file any rough edges for a clean cut.

Here are some key tips for optimalresults:

• Keep the tin snips blades sharp. Dull blades require more force and can bend the metal.
• For long cuts, start in the middle and work outward in both directions.
• Keep your wrist firm and straight as you squeeze the handles together.
• Apply cutting oil for easier snipping through thicker metals.
• Let the tool do the work. Don’t force the blades.

Cutting Different Types of Metal Roofing

Tin snips work well for cutting most popular metal roofing materials:

Roofing Type	Thickness	Notes
Galvanized Steel	26-30 gauge	Coated in zinc for corrosion resistance. Most common metal roofing.
Aluminum	0.019-0.032 inches	Lightweight and rustproof. Requires less cutting force.
Copper	16-20 oz. sheets	Naturally rust resistant. Soft and easy to cut.
Terne Coated Steel	26-30 gauge	Steel coated in lead-tin alloy. Long lasting roofing.

Thicker roofing metals like 16 gauge steel may require extra effort to snip through. Consider upgrading to electric shears.

Choosing the Best Tin Snips for Cutting Metal Roofing

When buying tin snips for roofing work, look for the following ideal features:

• Blade Length: 8-10 inches. Longer blades provide more leverage for easier cutting.
• Blade Type: Knife-edge blades stay sharper than other designs.
• Handle Type: Spring-loaded or pneumatic handles reduce hand fatigue.
• Comfort Grip: Cushioned handles relieve pressure on your hands.
• Locking Mechanism: Lock keeps blades safely closed when not in use.
• Carry Case: Protects the blades and allows easy transportation.

High carbon steel blades offer durability and longevity. Japanese tin snips from brands like Midwest Snips and Malco are known for their exceptional sharpness and cutting ability.

Tin Snip Brands

Here are some top rated tin snips for metal roofing:

Brand	Model	Key Features
Midwest Snips	M2011T Right Cut Tinner Snips	10″ aircraft steel blades, dual compound leverage, ergonomic handles
Wiss	M1R Metalmaster Snips	Forged high carbon steel, bi-material handles, heavy duty
Malco	TS1 Straight Cut Tin Snips	9″ titanium coated blades, comfortable grips, light weight
Hakko	CHP-170 MicroCut Snips	8.5″ blades, low effort cutting, refined cutting edges

Investing in a premium brand means you get exceptionally sharp and durable snips that will last for years of roofing projects.

Safety Tips for Cutting Metal Roofing

Cutting sheet metal with tin snips does involve some safety precautions:

• Wear thick work gloves – metal edges are extremely sharp after cutting.
• Wear eye protection – bits of metal can flake off during cutting.
• Watch your footing – work from a stable ladder or roof area.
• Keep fingers clear – don’t place them near the cutting blades.
• File down burrs – smooth any rough edges after cutting.
• Store safely – close blades and keep in carry case when not in use.

Always take your time and focus fully on the cutting task at hand. Rushing increases the risk of slip ups and injuries.

Alternative Metal Roofing Cutting Tools

While tin snips are the most convenient manual option, here are a few other tools that can cut metal roofing:

Electric Shears

Electric metal shears provide powered cutting blades for effortless cutting through thick and thin metals. Models like the Makita JS3200 shear through steel up to 16 gauge. Great for long cuts or thick material. Requires an electrical connection.

Angle Grinders

Angle grinders with metal cutoff wheels can zip through roofing panels quickly. However, this is a more aggressive cutting method that produces rough edges. Requires discs to be frequently changed. Loud and throws sparks.

Circular Saws

Fitted with an abrasive metal cutting disc, circular saws can cut through roof sheets. Provide fast cutting but the saw’s shape limits straight line cutting ability. Creates narrower kerf than tin snips.

Plasma Cutters

Plasma cutters use a superheated electric arc to melt through metal. Allows very fast cutting of thick steel. However, equipment is expensive and requires practice to master proper technique.

Conclusion

Tin snips are the ideal manual tool for cutting metal roofing sheets. When properly sharpened and used with good technique, tin snips produce clean, straight and burr-free cuts through common metals like galvanized steel, aluminum, and copper. Investing in high quality tin snips from trusted brands helps the blades stay sharp for years of roofing work. Always wear protective gear and focus fully on safe cutting technique. For thick materials or long cuts, electric shears provide faster and easier cutting power.