How to Cut Metal Corrugated Roofing and Siding

If you are siding or roofing your house with corrugated metal, the panels will often need to be cut to size, especially near the edge of a wall or the roof. Knowing how to cut corrugated metal safely not only helps reduce hazards, but prevents damage to the galvanized coating of the metal, which could let in moisture and lead to rust. Remember to maintain your metal siding regularly to avoid decay as a result of exposure to the elements.

• 1

  Lay the metal panel on a flat and strong work surface. It is important that the surface be completely horizontal to prevent the panel from slipping; this could cause accidents both through the panel crushing an object on the floor and damage to your own health when cutting the panel.

• 2

  Use the permanent marker and tape measure to indicate where you require the panel to be cut. Measure more than once to make sure you know exactly where you need to cut.

• 3

  Place the combination square on the mark.

• 4

  Drag the combination square along the panel with a marker pen to draw a straight line to indicate where it needs to be cut. You will need to hold the marker pen with the combination square as you pull your hand across the panel to ensure the line is straight.

• 5

  Place the power shears on the line at one end of the panel and squeeze the trigger to start cutting. It is a good idea to wear eye protection, as a small piece of metal could fly off the panel and hit you.

• 6

  Push the power shears along the line on the surface of the panel, cutting the panel as you go. Cut slowly and deliberately to form a neat cut; pushing the shears too quickly will cause a jagged edge and could run the risk of you slipping and cutting yourself.