Glossary of Metal Panel Trim Names & Types

We get it—there are a lot of different terms and words used in the metal roofing industry that would make anyone’s head spin trying to get them straight. To help you make informed decisions and know the ins and outs of metal roofing and siding verbiage, we not only created our glossary of metal roofing terms but this glossary of metal panel trim names and types.

Metal trim is a whole new ballpark of its own with nuanced terms used to describe the different types of trim and flashing applications. Not knowing the difference between the various types of trims can quickly lead to a costly mistake. At Great Northern Metal Co., we want to set you up for success on your next metal roofing/siding job. With you in mind, we created this glossary so you can reference it whenever, whenever and share it with your installation team.

What is Metal Panel Trim?

Metal roofing trim is a major factor in your roofing or siding system’s aesthetic and long-term value. Metal panel trim is a finishing material that covers and protects the edges of metal panels, making them more durable, weather-resistant, and visually pleasing. It is used in a variety of applications, from residential homes to commercial and industrial buildings.

What is the Difference Between Metal Panel Trim and Flashing?

Sometimes these terms are used interchangeably, as they are both durable, made from metal, and used to protect buildings from the elements. However, metal panel trim generally refers to the material used to cover and protect the edges of metal panels. Flashing, on the other hand, refers to a type of metal material used to help buildings stay weather resistant by covering vulnerable areas of a building, such as windows, doors, or other openings.

Glossary of Metal Panel Trim & Flashing

Base Trim – Base trim is used to cover the bottom edge of a wall or siding panel where it meets the foundation or framing structure. It serves several purposes, including protecting the bottom edge of the panel from moisture and debris, covering any gaps or rough edges, and providing a finished appearance. Base trim is an important component of a building’s exterior, as it helps to prevent moisture and debris from infiltrating the wall assembly and causing damage over time.

Drip Edge Trim – Drip edge trim is installed along the eaves and gables of a roof to provide a finished appearance and protect against moisture intrusion. Drip edge trim typically has an L-shaped profile with a flat horizontal flange that extends over the edge of the roof and a vertical flange that is installed against the fascia board or roof deck. It is designed to direct water away from the roof edge and prevent it from seeping into the roof structure. Typically used on not metal roofing applications like asphalt or cedar.

Drip Cap/Header – This trim is typically used in door and window installations. It is installed above the door or window to direct water away from the opening and prevent it from entering the building. Drip caps typically have an L-shaped profile with a flat horizontal flange that extends over the top of the opening and a vertical flange that is installed against the building’s exterior. It is designed to direct water away from the opening and prevent it from seeping into the building’s structure.

Eave Trim/Style D – Eave trim is a type of metal panel trim installed along the eaves of a roof to provide a finished appearance and protect against moisture intrusion. Eave trim typically has an L-shaped profile with a flat horizontal flange that extends over the edge of the roof and a vertical flange that is installed against the fascia board or roof deck. It is designed to direct water away from the roof edge and prevent it from seeping into the roof structure.

Endwall Flashing – This type of metal panel flashing helps protect the area where the roof meets the vertical wall of a building. It is installed along the end walls of a building and overlaps with the roofing panels to create a watertight seal. Endwall flashing typically has an L-shaped profile that extends up the wall and over the roofing panels, providing a secure attachment point and preventing water from infiltrating the building’s structure.

Face Cleat – A continuous piece of metal used at the eave or gable to keep the trim in place without an exposed fastener.

Gable or Rake Trim – This type of metal panel trim helps protect the triangular section of the wall that sits between the two sloping sides of a pitched roof, also known as the gable. It is installed at the peak of the gable and overlaps with the roofing panels to create a watertight seal. Gable trim typically has a triangular or trapezoidal profile and is designed to direct water away from the gable and prevent it from seeping into the building’s structure.

Gutters – Gutters are long, horizontal pieces of metal installed on a roofing system along the eave edges of a roof to help direct rainwater off the roof and away from the underlying structure.

Hem – Folding the edge of metal trim back onto itself to reinforce and create a smooth appearance while removing the sharp edge.

Inside Corner Trim – Inside corner trim is used to cover the inside corners where two walls meet at an angle. It is typically installed vertically and is designed to protect the corner from damage and provide a finished appearance. It can also be used in conjunction with other types of trims, such as base trim, to provide a cohesive and attractive finish.

J-Trim – This panel trim is used to finish the edges of various types of building materials, such as siding, roofing, and wall panels. It has a J-shaped profile, with one flange that extends outward to provide a finished edge and another flange that is installed against the surface of the building material. J-trim is commonly used to protect and finish the edges of soffits, fascia boards, and siding panels.

Kick – An angle put on a trim piece to divert water away.

Metal Fascia Trim – Metal fascia trim is installed on the edge of the roof, typically where the roof meets the outer walls of a building. Metal fascia trim is designed to provide durable, long-lasting protection for the roof and provide a finished appearance. It is installed horizontally along the edge of the roof and is usually covered with a drip edge trim to prevent water from seeping into the roof structure.

Offset Cleat – A continuous piece of metal used at the eave, valley, or transition where a standing seam panel is folded and hooked over to achieve a concealed attachment.

Oil Canning – Visible waves in the flat areas of metal panels.

Outside Corner Trim – Like inside corner trim, this trim is used to cover the outside corners where two walls meet at an angle. It is typically installed vertically and is designed to protect the corner from damage and provide a finished appearance. It can also be used in conjunction with other types of trims, such as base trim, to provide a cohesive and attractive finish.

Overhead Door – Overhead door trim provides a finished appearance and protects the opening where an overhead garage door is installed. It is typically installed around the perimeter of the garage door opening and can be made from a variety of metals, such as aluminum, steel, or vinyl. Overhead door trim is designed to protect the garage door opening from weathering and to prevent water from seeping into the garage. It can also be used to cover the gaps between the door and the surrounding walls and provide a smooth and attractive finish. Overhead door trim can be installed with various fastening methods, such as screws or nails, and can be finished with various coatings to provide additional protection against weathering and corrosion.

Top Cap Trim – Top cap trim is a type of metal panel trim installed along the peak or ridge of a roof to provide a finished appearance and protect against moisture intrusion. Peak trim typically has a sloped profile that matches the angle of the roof and is designed to cover the ridge of the roof, preventing water from seeping into the roof and causing damage to the underlying structure.

Pitch – Also referred to as slope, a metal roof pitch refers to how “steep” a roof is by measuring “rise” over “run.”

Pitch Change/Transition – ​​Pitch change trim is a type of metal panel trim used where the angle or pitch of the roof changes abruptly, such as at a roof valley or where a dormer meets the main roof. It is installed to provide a transition between two different roof pitches, allowing for a smooth and professional-looking installation. Pitch change trim typically has a V-shaped profile that matches the angle of the roof and is designed to cover the joint between the two sections of the roof. Pitch change trim helps to prevent water from seeping into the roof and causing damage to the underlying structure.

Perforated Nail Leg – A pattern of small holes on the underlap leg of the nail strip panel used to fasten the panel to the substrate.

Ridge Cap – A ridge cap is a type of metal panel trim used to cover the ridge or the highest point where two sloping roof planes meet. It is typically installed at the peak of the roof and overlaps with the roofing panels on either side to create a watertight seal. The ridge cap is designed to direct water away from the roof and prevent it from seeping into the building’s structure.

Rise – The vertical distance measured to determine the pitch.

Run – The horizontal distance measured to determine the pitch.

Sidewall Flashing – Sidewall flashing helps protect and seal the joint between the roof and the vertical wall of the building. It is typically installed along the bottom edge of the roof, where it meets the wall, and extends vertically up the wall to cover the joint. Sidewall flashing is designed to direct water away from the joint and prevent it from seeping into the building’s structure.

Soffit – Soffit is a type of metal panel trim used in building construction to enclose the underside of the roof overhangs, eaves, and porch ceilings. It is designed to provide a finished and streamlined appearance while also protecting the roof’s overhangs from weathering and damage. Soffit can be vented or unvented, depending on the building’s ventilation needs, and can be installed in a variety of styles, such as solid, perforated, or lanced. Vented soffit trim allows for air to flow into the attic or roof space, while unvented soffit trim does not. Soffit panels can be installed horizontally or vertically and may have a tongue-and-groove connection or be butt-joined together.

Span – Distance between the purlins on your roof or girts on your wall.

Thermal Expansion – Metal roofing panels expand and contract in response to temperature changes.

Track Cover – A trim that covers the track of a barn door or a sliding door on tracks.

Underlayment – A type of vapor barrier of water-resistant material placed underneath the metal roofing panel designed to add an extra layer of protection against moisture.

Valley Trim – Valley trim is used to protect and seal the joint between two sloping roof planes that meet at an angle to form a valley. It is typically installed along the bottom of the valley, where it meets the roof panels, and extends vertically up the roof to cover the joint. Valley trim is designed to direct water away from the joint and prevent it from seeping into the building’s structure.

Z Metal Closure – A metal trim piece used to provide an attachment for the ridge, transition and endwall trim to a standing seam panel.

Z-Trim – Z-trim provides a finished and streamlined appearance at the ends of metal panels. It is typically used as an alternative to J-trim. Z-trim is called so because of its Z-shaped profile, which allows it to be used in a variety of applications, such as at the end of gable roofs or the edges of walls. Z-trim can be installed using various fastening methods, such as screws or clips, and can be cut to fit specific dimensions.

Ready to Chat about Your Metal Roofing Project?

If you’ve got a metal roofing project in mind, chat with our experts today to discuss your panel and trim needs. At Great Northern Metal Company, our team can help you select the best metal roofing, siding, and trim materials and designs to fit any job. Whether it’s a small residential metal siding DIY or a large-scale commercial metal roofing job, our team provides expert advice to Bozeman roofing companies so they get the best metal materials for the task at hand. If you have questions or want a quote on your roofing project, drop us a line or call us at (406) 624-0435.

What Is Sealant for Metal Roofing?

Metal roof sealant helps seal seams, joints, gaps, and other areas where water or air could enter a roofing system. Most gun-grade sealants are applied from a tube and form a bead over or within a joint. Depending on the formulation, the material may remain permanently pliable or cure into a flexible seal.

For metal roofing, flexibility matters. Panels naturally move as temperatures rise and fall, so a sealant used at a moving joint needs to accommodate that movement without losing adhesion. 

The location of the seal matters too. A product used at an exposed seam may need different properties than one placed inside a concealed joint.

Sealant also should not be treated as a substitute for proper flashing, fastening, or panel installation. It works as part of the roofing system, not as a fix for a detail that was built incorrectly.

What Is Butyl Tape for Metal Roofing?

Butyl tape is a preformed sealing material typically installed between two roofing components. Instead of applying a bead from a tube, the installer lays a continuous strip of tape along the joint before the materials are fastened together. That makes it especially useful at concealed laps and other locations where two metal surfaces come together.

Butyl stays flexible, which helps it maintain a seal as a metal building experiences normal movement. There are also expanding sealant tapes that serve a similar purpose while filling irregular gaps and accommodating movement within the joint.

Sealant vs. Butyl Tape

The simplest way to think about the difference is application.

Gun-grade sealant works well when you need to apply a bead into a seam, joint, or gap. Butyl tape works well when you need a continuous seal between overlapping or adjoining components.

One is not automatically better than the other. The roof detail determines which type makes sense.

Metal Roof Sealant vs. Butyl Tape: Which Should You Use?

Different roof details put different demands on the sealing product.

Application

Product Type to Consider

Filling a seam or joint

Gun-grade sealant

Sealing a concealed metal lap

Butyl tape

Joint that moves with expansion and contraction

Flexible sealant or expanding sealant tape

Continuous seal between two components

Butyl tape

Irregular gap that needs to be filled

Gun-grade sealant or expanding tape

Detail exposed to wide temperature changes

Product rated for the expected temperature range

These are general guidelines. Always check the roofing-system requirements and the manufacturer’s installation instructions before choosing a product.

4 of the Top Metal Roof Sealants and Butyl Tapes

The right product depends on the joint, expected movement, temperature conditions, and whether the seal will be exposed or concealed.

Here are four options GNMC has tried, tested, and trusts so much that we chose to carry them at our shop.

1. EMSEAL AST Hi-Acrylic Sealant Tape

Best for: Expansion joints, lap seams, and joints that need to accommodate movement.

EMSEAL AST Hi-Acrylic Sealant Tape is a self-adhering, open-cell polyurethane foam tape impregnated with acrylic-modified asphalt.

Unlike a standard flat tape, EMSEAL AST gradually expands after it is removed from its packaging. That allows it to conform to the joint and fill gaps along irregular surfaces. For metal roofing and metal buildings, that can be particularly useful around details affected by thermal expansion and contraction.

Emseal AST

Why It Works Well With Metal Roofing

One of EMSEAL AST’s biggest advantages is its ability to move with the building. The tape conforms to contours and maintains a seal as metal panels expand and contract. It is designed to help keep out dust, air, wind-driven snow, and moisture through joint details.

It also does not dry out and become hard or brittle over time. Because the material remains compressed within the joint, it is designed to stay in place rather than squeeze out the way some caulks or butyl products can.

Its resistance to UV exposure, aging, and mildew also makes it well suited to demanding exterior applications.

Common Applications

EMSEAL AST can be useful for:

  • Expansion and compression joints
  • Lap seams
  • Mechanically fastened joints
  • Irregular gaps
  • Metal building details where movement needs to be accommodated

It can also be used alongside several common building materials, including metal, plastic, wood, and concrete.

Interested in EMSEAL AST? Contact GNMC

2. TFC BUTYL™ Sealant

Best for: Metal panel joints that need a permanently pliable, gun-grade sealant.

TFC BUTYL™ is a single-component butyl-based sealant designed specifically for strong adhesion to metal panels.

Its biggest distinction is that it remains permanently pliable. It does not skin over into a hard surface, which allows the material to continue moving with the joint after installation.

Why It Works Well With Metal Roofing

Metal panels do not stay perfectly still over the life of a building. Temperature changes create movement, and joints need a sealing product that can handle it.

TFC BUTYL remains flexible and moisture-resistant, which makes it useful for metal panel details where a rigid sealant would not be appropriate.

It also meets or exceeds AAMA 809.2 and is available in gray or white.

Installation Matters

Good adhesion starts with a clean surface. Before applying TFC BUTYL, the substrate should be dry and free from frost, oil, grease, incompatible coatings, or other contaminants that could interfere with adhesion.

The product is applied using a standard caulking gun and can be tooled after application if needed.

It is also worth paying attention to storage. TFC BUTYL should be kept in a controlled, dry environment below 75°F and used within 12 months of manufacture.

One other detail to know before choosing it: TFC BUTYL is not paintable.

Ask GNMC about TFC BUTYL™.

3. NovaFlex Metal Roof & Panel Adhesive Sealant

Best for: Seams, panel joints, and gaps that need a flexible cured sealant.

NovaFlex Metal Roof & Panel Adhesive Sealant is a single-component silicone sealant and adhesive commonly used as a seam sealant or joint filler in metal roofing and panel systems.

It is non-corrosive and non-sag, making it useful where contractors need a gun-grade product that will stay where it is placed.

Why It Works Well With Metal Roofing

Temperature range is one of NovaFlex’s standout characteristics. The product can be applied at temperatures from -20°F to 160°F and has a service temperature range of -40°F to 400°F.

That broad range is useful for metal roofing, where surfaces can experience substantial temperature swings.

NovaFlex also offers good adhesion to common building materials and can bridge gaps up to 3/8 inch. Its exterior weathering and aging performance make it suited to exposed building applications.

Where NovaFlex Makes Sense

Contractors may consider NovaFlex for:

  • Metal roof seams
  • Panel joints
  • Joint filling
  • Small gaps
  • Details exposed to wide temperature swings

It remains flexible at temperatures down to -10°F and is freeze-thaw stable. There are a couple of limitations worth knowing before installation. NovaFlex is not recommended for joints that will be submerged underwater, and it should not be used on surfaces that will later be painted.

Cure time also depends on temperature and humidity, so installers should account for site conditions and follow the product instructions.

Contact GNMC about product availability.

4. MB-10A Butyl Tape

Best for: Concealed metal building joints that need a continuous, flexible seal.

MB-10A Butyl Tape is an elastomeric butyl rubber sealant specifically designed around the requirements of metal buildings.

It comes extruded on silicone-coated release paper, which makes it straightforward to position during installation. It is also produced in different sizes and lengths to suit a range of applications.

Why It Works Well With Metal Roofing

MB-10A is designed to maintain its seal through normal building movement. Its combination of adhesive strength and cohesive strength helps the tape stay together and stay bonded as the assembly moves.

Temperature performance is another important benefit. MB-10A is designed to withstand extreme roof temperatures while maintaining compressibility in colder conditions. It also offers resistance to UV light and cold flow.

Those characteristics matter on metal buildings, where the material may experience a wide range of temperatures throughout the year.

Common Applications

MB-10A may be a good fit for:

  • Concealed panel laps
  • Metal building joints
  • Overlapping components
  • Details requiring a continuous butyl seal
  • Joints affected by normal building movement

Choosing the right tape size is important. The joint needs enough material to create the intended seal without using so much that the tape squeezes excessively out of the detail.

Inquire about MB-10A Butyl Tape

What to Consider Before Choosing a Metal Roof Sealant

Before grabbing a tube or roll, look at what the joint actually needs and ask yourself the following questions:

    1. How Much Will the Joint Move? Metal panels expand and contract as temperatures change. A sealing product at a moving joint needs enough flexibility to accommodate that movement.
    2. What Temperatures Will the Product See? Metal roof surfaces can get hot, and Montana projects can also see very cold conditions. Check the product’s application temperature separately from its service temperature. A sealant may perform across a wide temperature range once cured while still having specific limits for installation.
    3. Is the Joint Exposed or Concealed? A concealed panel lap has different needs than an exposed seam. Butyl tape is often a practical choice where two materials are compressed together. A gun-grade sealant may make more sense when a seam or gap needs to be filled from the outside.
    4. What Materials Is the Product Touching? Always check compatibility with the metal substrate and any adjoining materials. A product that adheres well to bare metal may have different requirements around painted finishes, other coatings, plastics, or masonry.
    5. Will the Surface Be Painted? Some sealants are not paintable. Both TFC BUTYL and NovaFlex have limitations that should be understood before choosing them for a detail that will receive a finish later.
    6. What Does Installation Require? Good products still need good installation. Surface preparation, storage, bead size, compression, and cure time can all affect the finished seal. Read the product instructions before installation instead of assuming every sealant or tape works the same way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Metal Roof Sealants and Butyl Tape

What is the best sealant for a metal roof?

The best metal roof sealant depends on where it will be used. Gun-grade sealants can work well for seams and joints, while butyl tape is commonly used between overlapping components or in concealed joints. Movement, temperature, substrate compatibility, and exposure should all factor into the decision.

Is butyl tape good for metal roofing?

Yes. Butyl tape is well suited to many metal roofing details because it creates a continuous seal between components while remaining flexible enough to accommodate normal building movement.

Is sealant or butyl tape better for a metal roof?

Neither option is better for every application. Butyl tape is often used inside laps and concealed joints, while gun-grade sealants are useful for filling seams, joints, and gaps. Some details may use both as part of the roofing system.

Does metal roof sealant need to stay flexible?

For joints that experience movement, flexibility is important. Metal panels expand and contract as temperatures change, so the sealing product needs to accommodate the expected movement without losing adhesion.

Can you use any silicone sealant on a metal roof?

No. Use a sealant that is compatible with the roofing material, coating, joint design, and expected temperatures. The product instructions and roofing-system requirements should guide the choice.

Need Metal Roof Sealant or Butyl Tape for Your Next Project?

Great Northern Metal Company carries EMSEAL AST, TFC BUTYL™, NovaFlex, and MB-10A Butyl Tape for a range of metal roofing and metal building applications.

Tell our team what detail you are working on and what you need the product to do. We can help you review the options GNMC carries and get the right product information before you place an order.

Inquire About Metal Roof Sealants

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Additional Resources

Guides and How-tos
4 Tried and Tested Metal Roof Sealants and Butyl Tapes

4 Tried and Tested Metal Roof Sealants and Butyl Tapes

A metal roof is only as watertight as its details. Seams, laps, joints, penetrations, and other connection points all create places where moisture can work its way into the roofing system if they are not sealed correctly. Metal also expands and contracts as...

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