RHINO’s Die-Formed Ridge Caps vs Other Ridge Caps
Ridge caps are the pieces of metal at the top-most part of a steel building. They cover and connect the peak of the roof seam, a vulnerable point where the roofing panels from two roof slopes meet. There are a few different kinds of ridge caps, but RHINO stands by our die-formed metal roof ridge caps. Let’s review why they stand out against the rest.
RHINO Ridge Caps
Ridge caps are a crucial part of the roof structure, as they protect a potential weak spot and prevent gapping that could provide access for pests and weather damage. The die-formed ridge caps that RHINO uses for their steel buildings — depending on roof pitch — are made specifically to match the roofing panels, not just in aesthetics, but also in fit to truly eliminate gaping. By using the same exact steel used in the roofing panels, we ensure that the caps and panels share the same strength and gauge, and will respond the same way to temperature changes.
To make the ridge caps, the metal — in the same color as the panels — is rolled out on the same equipment as the roof panels, then die-formed to the roof’s pitch. Now the caps have the same ridges as the roof panels so they can slot together easily, and will be attached with RHINO’s self-tapping screws. While tape sealant is not necessary, it can add additional waterproofing.
Die-Formed Ridge Caps vs Flat Ridge Caps
The flat ridge caps many other companies offer miss out on some areas of protection. Instead of being die-formed to the roof’s angles, these flat caps are bent by hand, so they may not be quite as accurate. Additionally, because the steel panels are flat, they do not notch against the roof panels securely, so there is space between them for air and other things to get into the building’s structure. This can include wind blowing rain in and causing wet insulation, or even rodents or birds crawling in and doing damage. Some companies will try to prevent this by filling the gap with foam, but often the foam is a temporary fix anyway; water will deteriorate it, and some pests will just eat through it.
Other Die-Form Options
As much as RHINO might like to claim it, we are not the only company that offers die-form ridge caps. However, not all of these caps or companies meet our standards. For example, RHINO provides our die-cast ridge caps as a standard part of almost every order, every steel building we send out, depending on roof pitch. Many others only provide them as a premium or upgrade. On top of that, their die-cast caps may only be made of aluminum rather than steel, losing some of the expected strength that comes with RHINO’s caps.
If you want a guaranteed fit, steel, die-form ridge cap to top off your steel building, you want your building from RHINO. Give us a call or put your design together in our online 3D designer to get started today.
