S-5-N™ 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.

Our standard test procedures are to test the Mini (one setscrew) clamps with negative load normal to seam and standard (two setscrew) clamps with load parallel to seam.  We have performed numerous parallel-to-seam datum tests on Mini clamps and concluded the Mini clamp is capable of (conservatively) obtaining at least ½ the strength of the standard clamps.  In fact, the majority of the datum testing indicates the strength of a Mini is closer to 2/3 the strength of a standard clamp.  

Should the load application pulling load parallel to seam be critical to your application, we suggest using the standard (two setscrew) design.

The key to frequency and spacing of attachment points for PV is to distribute loads to the metal standing seam panels in a manner that is consistent with the intended distribution of loads from the roof panels into the building structure.

The key to frequency and spacing of attachment points for PV is to distribute loads to the metal standing seam panels in a manner that is consistent with the intended distribution of loads from the roof panels into the building structure. Read more about how to determine attachment spacing.

S-5! offers 3 specific clamp options for nail-flange.

The S-5-N (and Mini) (also with an insert) are designed for applications on popular 1″ (seam height) nail strip metal roof profiles: Taylor Metals’ Easy Lock™, ASC Building Products’ Skyline Roofing®, McElroy Metals’ Meridian, and New Tech Machinery’s FF100, and roofing types with similar profiles.

The S-5-N 1.5 (and Mini) are designed for most 1.5″ (seam height) nail strip metal roof profiles such as: Bridger Steel 1.5” Tru Snap, Schlebach 1.5” NailStrip, Sheet Metal Supply NS 1.5”, Sheffield Metals SMI 1.5” and roofing types with similar profiles.

The S-5 NH 1.5 (and Mini) were designed to fit wider profiles that the S-5-N 1.5 will not fit. 

These clamps feature a hinged insert for limited wider nail strip profiles to prevent damage to the seam area on these wider seam profiles and are ideal for VicWest “Prestige” and similarly-dimensioned profiles. It is designed specifically for 1-1/2” (seam height) nail-flange profiles having a horizontal base-of-seam dimension (> 0.475” and < 0.800”).