Striated Standing Seam Panel with Clip Relief

Striations, Clip Relief, and Stiffening Ribs: How to Minimize Oil Canning in Standing Seam Metal Roofing

When it comes to standing seam metal roofing, looks matter just as much as performance. One of the most common aesthetic concerns with metal roofs is oil canning—those subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) waves that can appear on flat panels. Oil canning, also referred to as “stress wrinkles”, can occur in any metal panel. The good news? There are simple ways to minimize oil canning without affecting the strength or lifespan of your roof.

In this post, we’ll break down four structural options you can add to your standing seam metal roofing panels: clip relief, striations, stiffening ribs, and pencil ribs. By the end, you’ll know exactly how each one works—and the pros and cons of each.

How to Minimize Oil Canning on a Metal Roof

The best way to reduce the appearance of oil canning is by adding clip relief, striations, stiffening ribs, or pencil ribs during manufacturing. Here’s what you need to know:

• ✅ Adding structure minimizes oil canning.

• ✅ It does not increase the price.

• ✅ It does not affect engineering or panel performance.

• ✅ It does not add to lead time.

• ❌ However, the panel will no longer be perfectly flat.

At Indiana Metal, our standard practice is to manufacture standing seam panels with striations to help reduce oil canning.
Prefer a smooth, flat panel? No problem—we’re happy to run your panels smooth upon request.

What is Clip Relief?

Clip relief is a raised indentation on the vertical leg of a standing seam panel, designed to fit snugly over the panel clip. It’s barely noticeable but plays a big role in reducing oil canning where the clip attaches. Clip relief improves the appearance of the roof without changing its function or adding cost.

What are Striations?

Striations are wavy, shallow indentations that run the length of the panel. They create slight texture across the entire surface, making oil canning—and even dents from things like hail—far less noticeable. While striated panels aren’t technically “flat,” the trade-off is a cleaner-looking, more forgiving surface.

Fun fact: At Indiana Metal, most of the panels we sell include striations standard unless otherwise requested!

What are Stiffening Ribs?

Stiffening ribs are one-inch-wide raised lines spaced evenly across the panel. They don’t cover the entire surface like striations do, so the panel maintains a flatter appearance. The advantage is that stiffening ribs are less noticeable from the ground. The downside? They don’t hide oil canning as effectively as full striations.

What are Pencil Ribs?

Pencil ribs are a smaller, more subtle version of stiffening ribs. They’re lightly raised and even less noticeable than stiffening ribs. Like stiffening ribs, pencil ribs slightly improve panel rigidity but don’t mask oil canning quite as much as full striations.

Metal Roof Striations vs. Flat Panels: Pros and Cons

Bottom Line:
If you want a cleaner, less maintenance-intensive look, striations are a great option. If you’re a purist who loves a perfectly smooth, flat look—and you’re willing to accept some visible oil canning—you can request smooth panels when you order.

Need Help Choosing the Right Look?

Whether you’re a contractor quoting a new standing seam roof or a homeowner designing your dream exterior, Indiana Metal is here to help. We’ll walk you through your options, provide samples, and quote your project with or without striations—whatever fits your vision best. Check out all our standing seam profiles from the MP150 to the MP675 to the industrial strength MP210, we’ve got you covered. Tip: Did you know striations vs no striations are also an option on our popular Steel Batten Siding?

Contact us today to learn more, get a custom quote, or request a sample of our HD wood grain printed steel or standing seam panels.