S-5-H90™ Clamp

The answer to this question varies with the load direction, the seam profile, the roof material and the clamp model.

These variables result with a wide range of holding capacities from ±300 lbs (235 kg) to ±4,000 lbs (1800 kg). This is why for critical applications it is important to correctly identify the roof panel, seam type, gauge, etc along with the recommended seam clamp for the specific roof.  [ link-- Clamp-to-seam tool]  When used on some “applied cap” architectural type seam styles, S-5! may yield low load-to-failure results as compared with integrated seam profiles. Always check our load table to verify the correct allowable holding strength on your specific roof type. Read more about our testing.

Using a dial indicating torque wrench is critical when installing S-5! clamps.

When installing S-5! clamps, using a dial-indicating torque wrench is critical. Our published test results depend upon adequate screw tension. S-5! clamps derive their strength by creating a mechanical interlock. The setscrews are designed to compress the seam material and to push it into a cavity in the clamp body. The joint of the standing seams is a “soft joint”. This compression/deformation process occurs automatically as the setscrews are tensioned. 

Commonly available “clicker” torque wrenches are not reliable for this purpose, but instead are for tensioning a “hard joint.” Watch the video here for how to properly attach and tighten our standard two-setscrew size clamps.

You should always be concerned about metallurgical compatibility. Incompatibility can cause rapid galvanic corrosion and void material warranties. S-5! aluminum clamps are completely compatible with painted or unpainted G-90 galvanized steel, bare or painted Aluminized, Galvalume, Zincalume, ZincalumePlus, Acrylume Galvalume Plus, Galfan, Bonderized and Galvanneal steel. They are also compatible with aluminum (painted, bare, or anodized), titanium-zinc (VM & Rheinzink), and with stainless steel. The brass clamp S-5-B is compatible with everything the aluminum clamp is not (copper and its alloys).

If you have concerns or questions regarding clamp compatibility with your roofing material please reach out to us at [email protected]. 

For horizontal seams with .5″ (13 mm) or less dimension of folded portion:

• Option 1: Crimp the seam to 180 degrees at the desired clamp location and use the S-5-E (or Mini). This is easily done with a hand seaming tool with no harm to the seam and actually strengthens the seam.
• Option 2: Use the S-5-T or the S-5-S to avoid altering the seam.

For horizontal seams greater than .5″ (13 mm) and less than .625″ (16 mm) dimension of folded portion: Use the S-5-T.

For horizontal seams greater than .65″ (16 mm)

• Option 1: Use the S-5-U in its horizontal orientation or the S-5-H90. (Setscrews are tensioned top-down attack).
• Option 2: For horizontal seams greater than .65″ (16 mm) but less than .80″ (20 mm) use the S-5-H. (setscrews are tensioned side-attack).

For horizontal seams less than .65″ you may also crimp the seam as shown above for the S-5-E.

Read more.