ASTM E1637-98(2017)e1

Standard Specification for Structural Standing Seam Aluminum Roof Panel Systems

ABSTRACT
This specification covers the design, construction, and weatherability of structural standing seam aluminum roof panel systems. It includes performance requirements for the following elements only: panels, concealed panel clips, panel/clip anchorage, and panel joint sealers. Structural panels shall be designed in accordance with the required specifications for aluminum structures and in accordance with sound engineering methods and practices. The static load capacity and uplift index shall be tested to meet the requirements prescribed. Connections of panels to structural members shall be made with concealed panel clips compatible with the panel design. A fixing line is required to anchor roof panels in order to maintain end alignment and to resist in-plane gravity and thermal force components. Panel-to-panel sidelap connections and endlaps shall be weathertight. Panels of maximum practicable lengths shall be used to minimize endlaps.
SCOPE
1.1 This specification covers the design, construction, and weatherability of structural standing seam aluminum roof panel systems. It includes performance requirements for the following elements only: panels, concealed panel clips, panel/clip anchorage, and panel joint sealers.
Note 1: These systems are used on both low-slope and steep-slope roof applications. They also are used with or without an underlying deck or sheathing.  
1.2 The objective of this specification is to provide for the overall performance of the structural standing seam aluminum roof panel system as defined in 3.2.6 during its service life in order to provide weather protection, carry the specified design loads, and allow proper access over the roof surface in order to provide for periodic maintenance of the equipment by the building owner.  
1.3 In addition to structural characteristics, the specifier shall evaluate other characteristics beyond the scope of this specification that affect the final choice of roof construction. These include, but are not limited to, functional, legal, insurance, and economic considerations. See Appendix X1 for the specifier's checklist.  
1.4 This specification is not intended to exclude products or systems not covered by the referenced documents.  
1.5 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical conversions to SI units that are provided for information only and are not considered standard.  
1.6 The text of this specification contains notes and footnotes that provide explanatory information and are not requirements of this specification.  
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Sep-2017
• ICS: 77.150.10 - Aluminium products
• ICS: 91.060.20 - Roofs
• ICS: 91.100.99 - Other construction materials
• Technical Committee: E06 - Performance of Buildings
• Drafting Committee: E06.57 - Performance of Metal Roof Systems

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM E1637-98(2011) - Standard Specification for Structural Standing Seam Aluminum Roof Panel Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2017
• Refers: ASTM C879-03(2019) - Standard Test Methods for Release Papers Used with Preformed Tape Sealants
• Effective Date: 01-May-2019
• Refers: ASTM E1646-95(2018) - Standard Test Method for Water Penetration of Exterior Metal Roof Panel Systems by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2018
• Refers: ASTM E1592-05(2017) - Standard Test Method for Structural Performance of Sheet Metal Roof and Siding Systems by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2017
• Refers: ASTM E631-15 - Standard Terminology of Building Constructions
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2015
• Refers: ASTM E631-14 - Standard Terminology of Building Constructions
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2014
• Refers: ASTM G21-13 - Standard Practice for Determining Resistance of Synthetic Polymeric Materials to Fungi
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2013
• Refers: ASTM E1592-05(2012) - Standard Test Method for Structural Performance of Sheet Metal Roof and Siding Systems by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2012
• Refers: ASTM C765-97(2011) - Standard Test Method for Low-Temperature Flexibility of Preformed Tape Sealants
• Effective Date: 01-Dec-2011
• Refers: ASTM E1680-11 - Standard Test Method for Rate of Air Leakage Through Exterior Metal Roof Panel Systems
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2011
• Refers: ASTM D1667-05(2011) - Standard Specification for Flexible Cellular Materials<char: emdash>Poly (Vinyl Chloride) Foam (Closed-Cell)
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2011
• Refers: ASTM E1646-95(2011) - Standard Test Method for Water Penetration of Exterior Metal Roof Panel Systems by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2011
• Refers: ASTM B209-10 - Standard Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy Sheet and Plate
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2010
• Refers: ASTM C879-03(2009) - Standard Test Methods for Release Papers Used With Preformed Tape Sealants
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2009
• Refers: ASTM C711-03(2009) - Standard Test Method for Low-Temperature Flexibility and Tenacity of One-Part, Elastomeric, Solvent-Release Type Sealants
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2009

Overview

ASTM E1637-98(2017)e1: Standard Specification for Structural Standing Seam Aluminum Roof Panel Systems establishes requirements for the design, construction, and weatherability of structural standing seam aluminum roofing. This international standard, developed by ASTM, covers performance criteria for panels, concealed panel clips, panel/clip anchorage, and panel joint sealers. The aim is to ensure roof systems provide effective weather protection, meet structural load demands, and allow for access and maintenance over their service life. Structural standing seam aluminum roof panel systems are widely used on both low-slope and steep-slope roofing, and may be installed with or without an underlying deck or sheathing.

Key Topics

• Design and Structural Performance

  • Roof panels must be engineered according to specification for aluminum structures, ensuring sound methods and best practices are applied.
  • The system is required to resist both positive and negative loads, such as wind uplift and service loads, without relying on underlayment support.
  • Deflections should be limited to support long-term functionality and structural integrity.

• Weatherability and Weathertightness

  • Panels, joints, and sealers must deliver reliable weather protection, with panel-to-panel connections and endlaps engineered for watertightness.
  • The use of sealers or joint fillers is based on climate, roof slope, and system design to prevent leaks and enhance durability.

• Component Requirements

  • Concealed panel clips compatible with the panel design are required for secure attachment to structural members.
  • Provisions must be made for thermal movement, typically via panel clips, allowing the roofing system to expand and contract with temperature changes without compromising performance.
  • Panel clips and anchorage systems should work in harmony with insulation and any thermal spacers used.

• Installation Guidelines

  • The specification includes requirements for proper installation, including the use of maximum practicable panel lengths and anchoring panels in fixed lines to maintain alignment and resist gravity and thermal forces.

• Additional Considerations

  • The standard advises that designers assess other factors like legal, insurance, and economic issues-beyond structural properties-when choosing a roofing system.

Applications

Structural standing seam aluminum roof panel systems are designed for commercial, industrial, and institutional buildings that require a robust, durable, and weather-resistant roofing solution. Key applications include:

• Low-slope and Steep-slope Roofs: Applicable to a wide range of architectural roof profiles, providing design flexibility for modern construction.
• Retrofits and New Build Projects: The standard supports both upgrades to existing structures and installation in new construction.
• Roofs Without Continuous Decking: The system’s ability to resist design loads without full underdecking is especially relevant in metal building applications.
• Facilities Requiring Regular Roof Access: Designed with long-term service and equipment maintenance in mind, supporting safe roof access.

Related Standards

The performance and installation of structural standing seam aluminum roof panel systems according to ASTM E1637-98(2017)e1 are supported and referenced by several important industry standards:

• ASTM B209 - Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy Sheet and Plate.
• ASTM E1592 - Test Method for Structural Performance of Sheet Metal Roof and Siding Systems by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference.
• ASTM E1646 - Test Method for Water Penetration of Exterior Metal Roof Panel Systems by Uniform Static Air Pressure Difference.
• ASTM E1680 - Test Method for Rate of Air Leakage Through Exterior Metal Roof Panel Systems.
• UL 580 - Standard for Safety: Tests for Uplift Resistance of Roof Assemblies.
• FM Approval Standard 4471 - Approval Standard for Class 1 Panel Roofs.
• Aluminum Design Manual - Latest edition, for aluminum structure calculations.

Compliance with ASTM E1637-98(2017)e1 ensures that aluminum standing seam roof systems deliver consistent structural performance, weather protection, and durability across diverse building applications, making it a key standard for roofing professionals and building specifiers.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
´1
Designation: E1637 −98 (Reapproved 2017)
Standard Specification for
Structural Standing Seam Aluminum Roof Panel Systems
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E1637; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
ε NOTE—Editorial changes were made in 2.7, 5.2.2, and throughout in October 2017.
1. Scope ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
1.1 This specification covers the design, construction, and
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
weatherabilityofstructuralstandingseamaluminumroofpanel
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
systems. It includes performance requirements for the follow-
ing elements only: panels, concealed panel clips, panel/clip
2. Referenced Documents
anchorage, and panel joint sealers.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
NOTE 1—These systems are used on both low-slope and steep-slope
roof applications. They also are used with or without an underlying deck
B209Specification for Aluminum and Aluminum-Alloy
or sheathing.
Sheet and Plate
1.2 The objective of this specification is to provide for the C711Test Method for Low-Temperature Flexibility and
overall performance of the structural standing seam aluminum Tenacity of One-Part, Elastomeric, Solvent-Release Type
roof panel system as defined in 3.2.6 during its service life in
Sealants
order to provide weather protection, carry the specified design C765Test Method for Low-Temperature Flexibility of Pre-
loads,andallowproperaccessovertheroofsurfaceinorderto
formed Tape Sealants
provide for periodic maintenance of the equipment by the
C879TestMethodsforReleasePapersUsedwithPreformed
building owner.
Tape Sealants
D1667Specification for Flexible Cellular Materials—Poly
1.3 In addition to structural characteristics, the specifier
(Vinyl Chloride) Foam (Closed-Cell)
shall evaluate other characteristics beyond the scope of this
D3310Test Method for Determining Corrosivity of Adhe-
specification that affect the final choice of roof construction.
sive Materials
These include, but are not limited to, functional, legal,
E631Terminology of Building Constructions
insurance, and economic considerations. See Appendix X1 for
E1592Test Method for Structural Performance of Sheet
the specifier’s checklist.
Metal Roof and Siding Systems by Uniform Static Air
1.4 This specification is not intended to exclude products or
Pressure Difference
systems not covered by the referenced documents.
E1646Test Method for Water Penetration of Exterior Metal
1.5 Thevaluesstatedininch-poundunitsaretoberegarded
Roof Panel Systems by Uniform Static Air Pressure
as standard. The values given in parentheses are mathematical
Difference
conversions to SI units that are provided for information only
E1680Test Method for Rate of Air Leakage through Exte-
and are not considered standard.
rior Metal Roof Panel Systems
G21Practice for Determining Resistance of Synthetic Poly-
1.6 The text of this specification contains notes and foot-
meric Materials to Fungi
notesthatprovideexplanatoryinformationandarenotrequire-
ments of this specification.
2.2 FM Approvals Standard:
Approval Standardfor Class 1 Panel Roofs, Class Number
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
1 2
This specification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E06 on For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
Performance of Buildings and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee E06.57 contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
on Performance of Metal Roof Systems. Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2017. Published November 2017. Originally the ASTM website.
approved in 1994. Last previous edition approved in 2011 as E1637–98(2011). Available from FM Approvals, 1151 Boston-Providence Turnpike, P.O. Box
DOI: 10.1520/E1637-98R17E01. 9102, Norwood, MA 02062, http://www.fmapprovals.com.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
´1
E1637 − 98 (2017)
2.3 UL Standard: 4.1.2 Thefinishedroofsystemshallbecapableofsustaining
UL580Standard for Safety, Tests for Uplift Resistance of a minimum 200-lb (0.9-kN) concentrated load on any 12 by
Roof Assemblies 12-in. (300 by 300-mm) area of finished roof without causing
seam separation, permanent panel buckling, or loss of weath-
2.4 AA Document:
ertightness.
Aluminum Design Manual, Latest Edition
4.1.3 Thermal movement shall be provided for in accor-
2.5 AISI Document:
dance with Sections 7 and 8. Temperature extremes for many
S100NorthAmerican Specification for the Design of Cold-
localities are found in documents referenced in 2.6 – 2.8.
Formed Steel Structure Members
4.1.4 The standing seam roof system clips do not always
2.6 MBMA Document:
provide full lateral support to secondary structural members.
MBMALow Rise Building Systems Manual, Latest Edition
The degree of lateral support provided to the secondary
2.7 ASHRAE Document:
structuralmembersbythepanelsystemshallbedeterminedby
ASHRAE Handbook of Fundamentals an appropriate test, or in the absence of such test, the panel
must be assumed to provide no lateral support.
2.8 NCC Document:
1981B Climatography of U.S. #81
NOTE 2—The Base Test Method for Purlins Supporting a Standing
Seam Roof System in the AISI S100 Cold-Formed Steel Design Manual
is used to evaluate lateral support when the secondary structural is
3. Terminology
cold-formed Zee or Cee purlins.
3.1 Definitions:
4.2 Protection of Incompatible Materials—Components
3.1.1 Refer to the latest edition of the MBMA Low Rise
constructed of incompatible materials shall not be placed
Building Systems Manual and Terminology E631 for defini-
together without an effective separating material.
tions of terms used in this specification.
4.3 Oil Canning—Oil canning is an inherent characteristic
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
of products covered by this specification, particularly those
3.2.1 construction loads, n—thoseloadsencounteredduring
with broad, flat areas. It is the result of several factors that
the erection of the roof system only.
include, but are not limited to, induced stresses in the base
3.2.2 fixing line, n—a line or adjacent lines of fixed points.
material, fabrication methods, and installation and thermal
3.2.3 maintenance loads, n—loads including, but not lim-
forces. While oil canning is an aesthetic issue, structural
ited to, personnel, equipment, and materials required to main-
integrity is not normally affected. Oil canning is not grounds
tain functionality of the building.
for panel rejection unless it does not meet prior standards
3.2.4 oil canning, n—a waviness that occurs in flat areas of established by the specifier.
metal.
5. Structural Integrity
3.2.5 sealer, n—any material that is used to seal cracks,
5.1 Panel System Design:
joints, or laps.
5.1.1 Structuralpanelsshallbedesignedinaccordancewith
3.2.6 structural standing seam aluminum roof panel system,
the Specifications forAluminum Structures and in accordance
n—an aluminum roof system designed to resist positive and
with sound engineering methods and practices.
negative loads applied normal to the panel surface without the
5.1.2 Deflection and serviceability shall be accounted for.
benefit of a supporting deck or sheathing.
The deflection shall be limited so as to allow the roof to
3.2.7 thermal movement, n—the reaction of the roof system perform as designed. The substrate deflection shall not cause
strains to the panels that affect the serviceability of the system.
in response to changes in the panel temperature.
5.2 Panel System Testing:
4. Performance Requirements
5.2.1 Static (Positive or Negative) Load Capacity—When
4.1 Design—Theroofsystemshallbedesignedforspecified the panel system does not comply with the requirements for
using the design procedures of the Specifications for Alumi-
design loads and thermal effects.
num Structures, testing shall be performed to determine the
4.1.1 Minimum environmental design loads shall be deter-
roof’s load capacity.
mined by the governing code or the design professional.
5.2.2 Uplift Index—When required by the specifier, the roof
system shall be tested in accordance with the requirements of
4 FMApprovalsApprovalStandard4471,orUnderwritersLabo-
Available from Underwriters Laboratories (UL), 2600 N.W. Lake Rd., Camas,
WA 98607-8542, http://www.ul.com.
ratoriesUL580orTestMethodE1592orotherapplicabletests
Available from The Aluminum Association, 1400 Crystal Dr., Suite 430,
(see Appendix X2).
Arlington, VA 22202, http://www.aluminum.org.
Available from American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), 25 Massachusetts
6. Panel Material
Ave., NW, Suite 800, Washington, DC 20001, http://www.steel.org.
6.1 The panel material shall be in accordance with the
Available from Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA), 1300
Summer Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44115-2851, http://www.mbma.com.
Specifications for Aluminum Structures and Specification
Available from American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-
B209.
Conditioning Engineers, Inc. (ASHRAE), 1791 Tullie Circle, NE, Atlanta, GA
30329, http://www.ashrae.org.
9 10
Available from National Centers for Environmental Information, Federal Fisher, J. M. and West, M. A., “Serviceability Design Considerations for
Building, 151 Patton Ave., Asheville, NC 28801-5001, http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov. Low-Rise Buildings,” AISC Design Guide, No. 3.
´1
E1637 − 98 (2017)
6.2 Aluminumalloy,temper,andmetalthicknessshallbeas asrequiredtomaintainwatertightness.Anappropriatetestwill
required to resist specified design loads. be used to demonstrate the roof panel system’s resistance to
ponded water. The sealer shall remain flexible between 0°F
7. Panel Clips (−18°C) and 140°F (60°C) to allow engagement and shall
shownosignsofcrackingwhentestedinaccordancewithTest
7.1 Connections of panels to structural members shall be
Method C765 (wrapped 180° over a 1-in. (25-mm) diameter
made with concealed panel clips compatible with the panel
mandrel after4hat0°F.The sealer shall not be exposed after
design.
assembly.
7.2 Provisions for the thermal movement between the panel
9.3.1.2 The sealer shall be sufficiently resilient to maintain
and the structure to which it is attached shall be accomplished
the seal after the movement of joints due to fluctuation in
by the use of concealed panel clips allowing such movement,
external load or expansion and contraction, or both. When
except as provided in 7.3.
tested in accordance with Specification D1667, the maximum
7.3 When the building geometry and the rotational flexibil-
set shall be 5% if compression alone is required to maintain
ity of the support members permit, it is permissible to resolve
the seal. The sealer shall be capable of maintaining the above
thermal movement through controlled rotation of the interme-
level of watertightness after exposure to the service tempera-
diate structural members rather than movement within the
ture range, −40°F (−40°C) to 200°F (93°C) unless local or
panel clip.
project conditions justify that the spe
...