Screwed Right: Choosing the Best Metal Roofing Screws for the Job

Let’s talk screws.
(Yes, the kind that hold your roof together—get your mind outta the gutter.)

If you’re installing a metal roof, one of the most overlooked but absolutely essential decisions you’ll make is the type of screws for metal roofing you use. They might be tiny, but they’re mighty—and using the wrong ones can mean big trouble (think leaks, rust, or a roof that waves at the wind like it’s in a parade).

So how do you choose the right metal roofing screws for the job? Let’s break it down.

 What Are Roofing Screws for Metal Roofing?

They’re not just any screws. Roofing screws for metal roofing are specially designed to anchor panels to a substrate—often wood—while sealing out moisture and standing up to the weather.

If you’re screwing metal to wood, you want a screw that can grip tight without stripping or splitting the wood. That’s where metal-to-wood screws come in.

Best Budget-Friendly Option: The T17 Wood-X Screw

We recommend Lakeside Fasteners’ T17 Wood-X Screws when you want reliability without breaking the bank. These screws are designed for metal-wood applications and offer:

• A self-tapping tip for quick and clean penetration

• EPDM washers that create a weather-tight seal

• Long-lasting corrosion resistance for Indiana’s ever-changing weather

Perfect for contractors or DIY’ers who need solid performance on a budget.

Want to Upgrade? Go ZXL with ZMAX

If you’re looking for maximum corrosion resistance (especially in coastal, industrial, or high-moisture environments), check out the ZMAX Long Life Fasteners.

These are like the luxury SUV of metal roofing screws. Here’s why:

• ZXL™ Zinc-Aluminum coating = superior rust protection

• Built for extreme environments

• Same sharp self-tapping point for metal-to-wood precision

• Ideal for customers who want to “do it once, do it right”

Why Screw Choice Matters

Using the wrong screws—or cheap ones—can lead to:

• Leaks and water damage

• Premature rust and discoloration

• Panels lifting or shifting

We’ve seen it. It’s not pretty.

Whether you’re installing a post-frame barn, a residential roof, or a workshop out back, make sure your metal-to-wood screws are up to the task.

Final Thoughts 

Your roof’s not gonna last with subpar fasteners. Choose the right screws the first time, and you’ll be cruisin’—not patching leaks—when the storm rolls in.

Need help choosing the right metal roofing screws for your job?
Reach out to our team—we’re here to steer you right.