What shears are best for cutting metal roofing?

When installing a metal roof, you’ll need a good pair of metal shears to make precise cuts. The right shears will make the job much easier and help you achieve clean, professional results. But with so many options on the market, how do you determine which shears are best for cutting metal roofing?

In this article, we’ll go over the key factors to consider when choosing metal roofing shears. We’ll also provide recommendations on the best shears for specific metal roofing applications and budgets. Whether you’re a pro roofer or a DIYer, you’ll find the information you need to select the ideal shears for your next metal roofing project.

Key Considerations for Metal Roofing Shears

When evaluating metal roofing shears, here are the main features to keep in mind:

Blade Type

The blade is arguably the most important part of any shears. For cutting metal roofing, you’ll want carbide-tipped or cobalt blades. Carbide holds an edge better than other materials and resists wear from cutting sheet metal. Cobalt has similar properties but is even tougher and more durable. Both carbide and cobalt will stay sharp longer than other blade types.

Blade Length

Longer blades, around 8-10 inches, give you better leverage for cutting metal roofing panels. Short blade lengths under 6 inches can work, but require more hand strength.

Comfortable Handles

Cutting metal roofing involves repetitive motions, so cushioned grip handles reduce hand fatigue. Look for soft, overmolded rubber or foam handles. Ergonomic designs with spring or pivoting action also increase comfort.

Cutting Capacity

Check that the shears can cut the maximum thickness and gauge of the metal roofing material you’ll be installing. For example, 20 or 24 gauge steel roofing up to 0.030 inches thick. Going lighter duty will lead to jamming and ragged cuts.

Efficient Design

Compound lever designs provide extra power to slice through tough metals while requiring less hand pressure. Ratchet mechanisms also assist with progression through thick material. Smooth, fluid action makes cutting large amounts of roofing less tiring.

Brand Reputation

Established brands like Malco, Midwest Snips, and Wiss are known for quality and performance. While less expensive generic shears may work initially, they likely won’t provide the same longevity. Investing in a reputable branded product pays off in the long run.

Now that we’ve covered how to assess metal roofing shears, let’s look at recommendations in different price ranges.

Best Budget Metal Roofing Shears Under $50

For those looking for the most affordable option, these shears deliver good cutting ability while going easy on your wallet:

Malco Corner Notcher Roofing Shear

– Carbide blade
– 8″ length
– Cuts up to 24 gauge steel
– Notcher for corners
– Ergonomic handles

Price: Around $25

The Malco corner notcher shear offers excellent value. It makes smooth, burr-free cuts through softer metals and has a handy built-in notching feature. The grip handles reduce fatigue from extended use. For the price, you’d be hard pressed to find better metal shears.

Capri Tools Compound Action Roofing Shear

– Cobalt alloy blade
– 10″ length
– Cuts up to 24 gauge steel
– Compound leverage for easy cutting
– Plastic coated handles

Price: Around $35

Capri Tools roofing shears utilize a compound leverage system to maximize cutting power. The cobalt blade stays sharp and resists corrosion. At just over $30, these shears deliver impressive cutting ability for light metal roofing work. The handles could be more comfortable, but overall an excellent value buy.

Best Metal Roofing Shears Under $100

Moving up in price, these shears in the $50-$100 range provide a sweet spot of performance, durability, and comfort:

Malco TurboShear Roofing Shear

– Carbide blade
– 8″ length
– Cuts up to 26 gauge steel
– Ratcheting mechanism for easy cutting
– Ergonomic rubber handles

Price: Around $70

Malco are metal shear specialists, and their TurboShear model shows why. Designed for roofers, the ratcheting action slices effortlessly through common roofing gauges. The carbide blade stays sharp, while the comfortable rubber grips reduce hand strain. For a mid-range option, this workhorse shear excels at cutting metal roofing.

Midwest Snips Left Cutting Aviation Snip

– Cobalt alloy blade
– 9″ length
– Cuts up to 18 gauge steel
– Compound leverage for high cutting force
– Contoured handles fit hand naturally

Price: Around $55

Midwest Snips are designed for sheet metal work, making them ideal for roofing. The cobalt blade ensures durability under heavy use. Compound leverage gives added cutting power through thicker gauges. The left side blade placement enables a clearer view of the cutting line. For the price, these shears deliver robust performance.

Best High End Metal Roofing Shears Over $100

For those looking for maximum cutting ability and the best experience, these top-tier shears are worth the extra cost:

Malco HC-1 High Leverage Shear

– Carbide blade
– 10″ length
– Cuts up to 20 gauge steel
– Extreme 10:1 leverage ratio for high cutting force
– Cushioned rubber handles

Price: Around $125

With incredible 10:1 leverage, the Malco HC-1 slices through metal roofing up to 20 gauge with minimal effort. The carbide blade stays sharp and is easily replaceable. Supremely comfortable handles provide a secure grip. Backed by a lifetime warranty, this shear’s superb performance makes it a roofing pro favorite.

Wiss Bulldog Compound Action Shear

– Cobalt alloy blade
– 8″ length
– Cuts up to 18 gauge steel
– Compound leverage for easy cutting
– Plastic coated handles

Price: Around $110

Wiss are known for high quality snips and shears. The Bulldog model combines a durable cobalt blade with a compound leverage system that multiplies cutting force. Longer blade life and fatigue-reducing performance make this a go-to choice for regular metal roofing work. The plastic handles aren’t as comfortable as rubber, but provide excellent grip and control.

How to Choose the Best Shears for Your Metal Roofing Job

When selecting shears for your particular metal roofing job, match the characteristics and price range to your specific needs:

– For occasional DIY work, choose an affordable model like the Malco corner notcher shear.

– If installing metal roofing regularly, opt for a durable mid-range shear such as the Midwest Snips left cutting aviation snip.

– Professionals doing heavy duty roofing work should consider top-tier shears like the Malco HC-1 for their unmatched performance.

– Look at the type of metal roofing you’ll be cutting to determine required blade length and thickness capacity.

– Consider how prolonged use affects your hands. Cushioned rubber grips provide more comfort for extended jobs.

Choosing the right metal roofing shears doesn’t have to be difficult. Focus on key features like blade type, leverage design, and comfort to find the best match. And don’t hesitate to invest in quality shears – they’ll pay back the cost many times over in improved cutting ability and longevity. With this guide’s recommendations, you can efficiently tackle any metal roofing job.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I use straight or offset snips for cutting metal roofing?

Offset snips are generally preferred, as they provide better visibility of the cut line. A left hand offset shear offers the clearest view for right handed users. However, straight blade shears can also work well with some added care.

How thick of metal can standard metal shears cut?

Most standard shears can cut up to 26 gauge steel, or around 0.015-0.030 inches thick. Heavier gauges up to 20 gauge (0.035 inches) usually require high leverage or compound shears. Aviation snips can cut 18 gauge and thicker metals.

Should I oil or lubricate the blades of metal shears?

Oiling is not necessary or recommended for high quality carbide and cobalt shears. The ultra hard blade materials don’t require extra lubrication. Applying oil attracts dust and debris which can damage the precision cutting edges.

How often will I need to sharpen or replace the blades?

With regular use, quality cobalt and carbide blades should last 1-2 years or longer before needing replacement. Sharpening carbide blades is possible but requires specialized diamond sharpening tools. For cobalt, replacement blades are recommended when dull.

Can I use metal shears to cut other materials besides roofing?

High grade metal shears can cut various thin gauge metals like aluminum siding, flashing, ductwork, and hobby materials. Be sure to select a model rated for the thickness you need to cut. Not recommended for wood, plastic, or non-metals which can damage blades.

Conclusion

Installing a metal roof is much easier with a good set of metal shears on hand. By understanding critical features like blade design, leverage ratios, and ergonomics, you can choose shears well-suited to your specific roofing job. Investing in a quality brand ensures you’ll get clean, effortless cuts on many roofing projects to come. Put this guide’s shear recommendations to work, and you’ll achieve professional looking results!