
Metal roof ridge cap end closure systems are designed to provide a watertight seal at the ends of a metal roof's ridge cap. They come in different types, including snap-lock, screw-down, and seam-seal systems.
These systems are crucial to prevent water from entering the roof and causing damage. The choice of system depends on the type of metal roof and local building codes.
Snap-lock systems use a mechanical fastener to secure the ridge cap to the roof's peak. They are popular for their ease of installation and durability.
Screw-down systems use screws to fasten the ridge cap to the roof's peak. They are often used for larger roofs and provide a secure seal.
What is a Metal Roof Ridge Cap End Closure?
A metal roof ridge cap end closure is essentially a watertight connection at the top of a roof. It's used to prevent water from seeping in and causing damage.
You'll need a floating connection at one end of the standing seam panel if you have a fixed point at the ridge. This usually means using an eave with a bullnose drip edge or eave with a joggle cleat.
In most cases, a metal roof ridge cap end closure will use butyl tape or sealants to ensure a tight seal.
What is a Fixed?
A fixed ridge cap is a type of metal roof closure that involves pinning the standing seam panels in place at the ridge.
This method requires a floating connection at the other end of the standing seam panel, which is often achieved with an eave featuring a bullnose drip edge or a joggle cleat.
In most instances, a fixed point at the ridge necessitates a floating connection at the other end of the standing seam panel.
This setup ensures a secure and watertight seal at the ridge, but it's essential to consider the specific requirements of your roof when choosing a fixed ridge cap.
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A metal roof ridge cap end closure is a crucial component that ensures a watertight connection at the top of a roof.
It's used where metal panels meet, and it's also known as a hip cap, making it a versatile solution for various roof configurations.
Butyl tape/sealants and closures for exposed fasteners are also available to complement the ridge cap end closure.
Zee flashing is used for hidden fasteners, providing an additional layer of protection against water intrusion.
The same ridge cap trim can be used in multiple ways, making it a convenient and cost-effective solution for many roofing needs.
Metal Roofing Closures
A metal roof ridge cap end closure is a crucial component that prevents debris, insects, and blowing rain from entering the gaps between the panels and the ridge cap.
There are two types of closures: solid and vented. Solid closures, also called "outside closures", are made of dense foam material and come in 3-foot-long pieces designed to fit closely over the ribs of the roof panels.
Vented closures, or "profile vents", have a similar profile to solid closures and match the ribbed pattern of your roof panels. One common type is 3” wide and comes in 50’-long rolls.
These closures are used to keep the roof watertight and airtight, and they can be secured along the edge of the top row of panels, where panels and ridge cap will meet.
Installation and Configuration
To install a metal roof ridge cap, you'll need to prepare the Z-trim underneath before installing the ridge cap. This involves cutting the Z-trim to fit between the metal panel major ribs.
For another approach, see: Metal Gable End Trim
You'll also need to mark the ribs to know where to place the Z-trims, which will set on the outer edge of ridge cap coverage. Make sure the Z-trim has tape sealant on both sides, between the trim and the panels, and between the ridge cap and the top of the Z.
The type of fasteners you use will depend on the specific installation method, but for a closed ridge cap installation, you'll typically use wood fasteners for the Z-trim and POP rivets or lap-tek screws for the ridge cap itself.
Here are some options for ridge cap materials, each with its own warranty and UV resistance:
- Ultra SA - Self Adhesive (Best): 50 Year Warranty, 12 Months UV Resistance
- Ultra - Non Adhesive (Better): 50 Year Warranty, 12 Months UV Resistance
- Comp (Good): 25 Year Warranty, 6 Months UV Resistance
Components List
To ensure a successful installation, you'll need to gather the right components. Here's a list of what you'll need:
- 1 Piece Ridge Cap Trim - WS-405H (requires a specific roof pitch)
- 2 Pieces Zee Closure - WS-410
- 56 Pancake Head Screws (#10X1") - no washer required, verify metal to wood or metal to metal
- 20 Rivets
- 40 Linear Feet Of Double Sided Butyl Tape, 3/16" X 7/8"
- 2 1/4 Tubes Of Butyl Sealant
- 1/4 Tube Silicone Sealant
It's essential to note that a water barrier or underlayment is recommended to be installed before the trim components or metal roofing panels. You can choose between Sharkskin Ultra and Sharkskin Ultra SA for this purpose.
Installation Overview

Installing a ridge cap on a metal roof is a crucial step in ensuring the roof's integrity and preventing water damage. You'll need to prepare the Z-trim underneath before installing the ridge cap.
The type of ridge cap you choose will depend on the specific requirements of your roof. For example, a vented ridge cap is designed to allow hot air to escape from the attic, while a closed ridge cap is used to prevent debris and insects from entering the roof cavity.
To install a closed ridge cap, start by cutting the Z-trim to fit between the metal panel major ribs. Then, use the ridge cap to mark the ribs so you know where to place the Z-trims.
The Z-trim should have tape sealant on both sides, between the trim and the panels, as well as between the ridge cap and the top of the Z. Fasten the Z-trim with wood fasteners, making sure the bottom leg points towards the roof peak.

Here are some common types of ridge caps and their features:
It's essential to evaluate each building based on its construction, what's happening inside the roof cavity, and the type of insulation used. This will help you determine the best type of ridge cap for your specific needs.
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Installation Guides and Resources
For a successful metal roof ridge cap end closure installation, it's essential to have the right tools and materials. A hammer, utility knife, and metal snips are must-haves for cutting and shaping the ridge cap.
To ensure a watertight seal, apply a bead of sealant to the top of the ridge cap before placing it in position. This is a crucial step in preventing water from seeping under the cap and causing damage to the roof.
The type of sealant used is also important, with silicone-based sealants being a popular choice for metal roof ridge cap end closures. They offer excellent adhesion and flexibility, making them well-suited for this application.
Ventilated Installation
You'll need to install a vented ridge cap to ensure proper airflow and prevent damage to your metal roofing system. A vented ridge cap installation is a bit more involved, but it's still a manageable DIY project with the right tools and instructions.
For a vented ridge cap installation, you'll need to cut and finish the ridge cap ends to fit the gable trim, ensuring a secure and watertight seal. You can also use a self-adhesive or non-adhesive ridge cap, which can provide additional benefits such as improved UV resistance and a longer warranty.
Here are some options to consider for your vented ridge cap installation:
The specific installation process may vary depending on the type of metal roofing system you have, but most will require the use of clips and a profile vent to secure the ridge cap in place.
Installation Videos
Installation videos are a great way to visualize the installation process, and many manufacturers provide them on their websites.
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For example, the article mentions that the installation video for the "Easy Install" system is only 10 minutes long and covers every step of the process.
Having a video to refer to can be especially helpful if you're a DIY enthusiast or a homeowner who wants to tackle the installation yourself.
The article notes that some installation videos may also include additional features such as 3D animations or step-by-step instructions.
These videos can be a valuable resource for understanding the installation process, and many manufacturers include them as part of their comprehensive installation guides.
In some cases, installation videos may be available in multiple languages, making it easier for users to understand the process, regardless of their native language.
How to Install
To install a ridge cap on a metal roof, you'll need to have the right tools on hand. You'll need a drill, drill bits, tape measure, chalk line, circular saw, pencil or sharpie, metal snips, and a pop rivet gun.
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The type of ridge cap you choose will depend on your specific needs. For example, the Ultra SA - Self Adhesive ridge cap offers a 50-year warranty and 12 months of UV resistance, making it a good choice for many applications.
To install a fixed ridge cap, you'll need to cut and finish the cap at the gable ends, overlaps, and fasten it in place. This type of installation is typically used for snap lock and clip fastened standing seam metal roofing panels.
For vented ridge cap installations, you'll need to install zee closures, perforated vent strips, and cut and finish the cap ends to fit the gable trim. This type of installation is also suitable for snap lock and clip fastened standing seam metal roofing panels.
The installation process for a closed ridge cap is relatively straightforward. You'll need to prep the Z-trim underneath the ridge cap, cut it to fit between the metal panel major ribs, and fasten it in place with wood fasteners.
Here are some common types of ridge caps and their features:
It's essential to evaluate each building based on its construction, what's taking place inside the roof cavity, and the type of insulation used, as this will affect the installation process.
Installation Instructions
When installing a metal roof ridge cap, it's essential to follow the correct steps to ensure a watertight seal. Cutting and finishing the ridge cap at the gable ends is crucial for a clean and secure installation.
To cut the ridge cap, you'll need to use a circular saw or metal snips, depending on the type of metal roofing panel you're working with. A tape measure and chalk line can help you mark the correct length and position of the ridge cap.
A step-by-step video with installation instructions can be a valuable resource for learning how to install a ridge cap. These videos often cover specific topics, such as fixed and vented ridge cap installation for snap lock and clip fastened standing seam metal roofing panels.
For vented ridge cap installation, you'll need to install zee closures and perforated vent strips. It's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific type of ridge cap you're using.
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Before you start the installation process, make sure you have all the necessary tools, including a drill and drill bits, tape measure, chalk line, circular saw, pencil or sharpie, metal snips, and a pop rivet gun.
The type of ridge cap you choose will also impact the installation process. Some ridge caps, such as the Ultra SA, come with a self-adhesive backing, while others, like the Ultra, require a separate adhesive. The Comp ridge cap has a non-self-adhesive backing and requires a separate adhesive.
Here are some common types of ridge caps and their features:
By following these steps and using the correct tools and materials, you can ensure a successful installation of your metal roof ridge cap.
Specifications and Dimensions
To ensure a proper metal roof ridge cap end closure installation, you'll need to consider the specifications and dimensions of the components involved.
For the WS-410 Zee Closure, you'll need 20' of closures for every 10' of ridge cap.
The WS-405H FIXED RIDGE CAP - PARTS LIST is a useful tool for calculating the quantity of accessories needed for your trim installation.
To calculate the total number of accessories, multiply the number of trim pieces by the list provided in the parts list.
The Components List for the WS-405H includes 2 Pieces Zee Closure - WS-410, among other items.
Here's a breakdown of the components you'll need for the WS-405H:
WSMR Recommends the use of a water barrier or underlayment prior to the installation of the trim components or metal roofing panels.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should a metal ridge cap overlap?
A metal ridge cap should overlap by 6 inches when installed. Overlapping is necessary for roofs larger than 12 feet in length.
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