The Best Metal Roof Power Seamers on the Market

New Tech Machinery (NTM) offers single lock and second-stage hand seamers for 1”, 1 ½”, and 2” mechanical seam profiles (SS100, SS150, SS200, SSQ210A). However, many roofers prefer power seamers as they’re faster and more efficient, especially for large roofing jobs. Hand seamers can be cumbersome to use, slow down your workflow, and increase labor expenses, whereas an average power seamer seams at 30’ to 35’ per minute, and some models significantly exceed that rate.

At NTM, our sales and service people occasionally receive calls from customers about where to get a power seamer. Power seamers can either be purchased or rented from a number of manufacturers and distributors. In this article, you’ll find a list of the best manufacturers for both.

How Power Seamers Operate

Power seamers are either handheld or self-propelled, used to form locks on standing seam panels. The seaming process starts by setting the seamer at the panel’s edge, often requiring a hand seamer for the initial lock. The machine, once engaged, moves along the seam either by hand, by being pulled with a rope or by self-propulsion. Some models are bidirectional, meaning they can seam in both directions without resetting. Depending on the machine, it can perform single or double lock seaming in one or multiple passes.

Certain seamers are designed for use on a variety of panel profiles, with multiple roller stations determining the type of locks formed. The ease of use depends on the type and size of the power seamer, its setup, and the size of the project, with panel length and seam height also impacting performance.

Power seamers are generally available in heights of 1”/1 ½” or 2”/2 ½”.

How to Choose the Right Power Seamer

When selecting a power seamer, consider factors like job frequency, panel size, and project type. For contractors handling limited metal roofing jobs, renting might be more cost-effective. Frequent users or those needing specialized equipment may benefit from purchasing. Determine your needs for a power seamer and what fits best into your budget. 

Also, consider the type of job. If you’re only installing residential metal roof systems, you probably won’t need a large industrial model. However, if you’re doing commercial work, it might be just the right seamer for your operation.

Power Seamer Specifications 

Key specs include seaming speed, seam height, and material and thickness compatibility. High-quality industrial seamers offer multiple roller stations, can handle thicker gauges, and may offer bidirectional seaming, allowing for more efficient operation.

Necessary Tools and Equipment for a Power Seamer

Even with a power seamer, you’ll need additional tools like heavy-duty extension cords, hand seamers for initial seams, and clamps to hold seams securely during operation. Proper setup tools ensure the seamer functions smoothly.

Using a Power Seamer

There are different sizes of seamers, and some are easier to use than others. That said, operating a power seamer involves some learning. Start with practice runs on the ground using scrap panels, as adjustments might be needed depending on the machine. Basic electric seamers with guided instructions are easier to use, while more complex models may require technical know-how for making any necessary adjustments.

Most power seamer manufacturers will include instructional videos on their websites and on YouTube.

Renting vs. Buying a Power Seamer

First, consider the number of metal roofing jobs you perform, as purchasing can be expensive and you have to deal with fixing it if anything goes wrong. Support is limited when you own the machine. However, for contractors consistently handling metal roofing jobs or who are running and installing large panels on a regular basis, buying may save you money in the long run. 

Renting a power seamer offers flexibility, especially if specs vary from project to project, and it includes maintenance support from rental companies. If something goes wrong, the rental company or manufacturer will walk you through how to deal with it or even swap the machine with another. Most companies will make sure the power seamer they send you is in optimal working order and adjusted properly, however. Also, they can preset and calibrate the seamer to the specifications of your job before they send it to you, so that you don’t have to make any adjustments.

In this article, we’ll cover the details about what brands you can purchase or rent, the specs, types, material factors, and prices. 

Note: All prices listed are subject to change. Contact the manufacturer for the most up-to-date pricing. Also, pricing between distributors may vary and some offer discounts.

Power Seamers for Sale

John Stortz & Son

John Stortz & Son seamers work with a power drill (which you must provide), making them fast and easy to use. Shipping is free with purchases.

Buschmann Accuseamer 

This high-speed seamer is designed for single and double-lock standing seam applications on both straight and round panels, achieving seaming speeds of up to 180 feet per minute. It’s suited for seaming heights of 1″ or 1 ½” and allows for easy adjustment between positions by rotating the seaming element. Powered by a conventional 18v, 5 amp cordless drill (not included), the seamer is compatible with various materials, including 26 ga (.5mm) stainless steel, 24 ga (.7mm) painted steel, and .032″ (.8mm) aluminum, copper, and zinc. 

Buschmann Double Faltz Seamer

The Double Faltz Seamer is designed for seaming single and double standing seam roof panels with profile heights of 1″ or 1 ½”, with no height adjustment needed. Powered by a conventional 18v, 5 amp cordless drill (not included), this lightweight seamer weighs just 11.5 lbs. and delivers speeds of up to 100 feet per minute. The seamer is compatible with various materials, including 26ga (.5mm) stainless steel, 24 ga (.7mm) painted steel, and .032″ (.8mm) aluminum, copper, and zinc. The seamer is shipped in a military-grade case, ensuring secure transport and storage.

Wuko Sprinter 0410

The mechanical lock power seamer is designed for closing 1″ and 1 ½” seam heights on single or double-lock standing seam panels. It offers both backward and forward run capabilities with variable pressure adjustment to ensure no damage occurs on painted or coated materials. This versatile seamer can handle curved panels with a minimum radius of 0.8 m (31.5″) for convex surfaces and 1.2 m (47″) for concave surfaces. It features two seaming speeds—23 ft or 40 ft per minute—and comes with a wooden carrying case for secure storage and transport. The seamer accommodates seam heights of 25mm (1″) or 38mm (1 1/2″) with two available sets of wheels. It supports sheet metal thicknesses up to 0.65 mm (24 gauge) for galvanized steel, 0.80 mm (.032, 20oz) for aluminum, copper, and zinc, and 0.50 mm (26 gauge) for stainless steel. The unit operates on a standard voltage of either 120 V or 230 V and weighs 42 lbs.

Wuko Lok’n’Bak 0412

This mechanical lock power seamer is designed for closing 1″ and 1 ½” seam heights on single or double-lock standing seams. The self-running machine is equipped with sensors that automatically stop the machine at the end of the seam. For added convenience, it can be switched into reverse mode, allowing the operator to open the front lever and let the Lok’n’Bak return to the start of the seam. The seaming pressure is continuously adjustable, ensuring perfect results regardless of the material used. 

The seamer also includes two easily exchangeable counter rollers for the last station, one optimized for softer materials like aluminum and copper, and the other for harder materials.

Englert

MetalMan ES-90 Electric Seamer

The MetalMan ES-90 Seamer is designed to create a precise 90º seam on 1” or 1 ½” Series 1300/1301 Englert standing seam profiles, seaming in both directions. Equipped with a ½ hp, 115V gear-driven motor, this unit features essential controls like a forward/reverse switch, jog/run switch, panel end proximity switch, and adjustable wheel heights.

MetalMan ES-180 Electric Seamer

The Englert MetalMan ES-180 electric seamer is designed to produce a 180º seam on 1” or 1 ½” Series 1300/1301 Englert standing seam panels with a pre-formed 90º seam. Capable of seaming in both directions, it works seamlessly alongside the Englert ES-90.

MetalMan E2 Electric Seamer

The MetalMan E2 Electric Seamer is engineered to produce both 90° and 180° seams on 2″ Series 2400/2500 panels. It stands out as the only seamer capable of handling 22-gauge panels with a heavy-duty 6″ stainless steel clip. The unit includes an additional set of 90° tooling, enabling seamless operation in both directions across the roof, at no extra cost. To ensure safe and convenient storage, the MetalMan E2 also comes with a durable aluminum storage case.

Elite Metal Tools

Knudson by Scottsdale Universal Roof Panel Seamer US-9

Featuring changeable roller sets, this universal seamer combines the most popular features of Knudson’s top-selling seamer models. This roof panel seaming machine can create single-lock or double-lock standing seams in a single pass. Includes ½” and ¾” head widths and 1”, 1 ½”, 2”, and 2 ½” leg heights.    

Rollformer

SSX Standing Seamer 

The SSX seamer is designed to form a complete double-lock standing seam in a single pass. To enhance safety and prevent costly accidents, the unit features a nose switch that automatically shuts off the machine when it reaches the edge of the roof. For added versatility, Single Lock and Double Lock Hand Tools are available to assist with starting a seam or finishing seams in tight or hard-to-reach areas.

SSX-HD Heavy Duty Standing Seam Seamer 

The SSX-HD seamer can be used on a range of materials, from copper to Kynar-finished Galvanize/Galvalume steel, at a speed of 30 feet per minute. Designed to work seamlessly with NTM, Knudson, ESE, and Schlebach profiles, the SSX Heavy Duty Seamer forms a complete double-lock standing seam in a single pass. Equipped with a nose switch, the unit automatically shuts off when it reaches the edge of the roof.

BSA Batten Seamer

The BSA Batten Seamer is designed to form a complete double-lock standing seam in a single pass on 16 to 20 oz. copper at a speed of 14 feet per minute. To enhance safety and efficiency, the seamer features a nose switch that automatically shuts off the unit when it reaches the edge of the roof.

SS Industrial Seamer for 2” Mechanical Lock Standing Seam

The SS Industrial Seamer is engineered to create both single-lock and double-lock seams on 2″ high “Armco Style” mechanical lock standing seam panels in 22-24 gauge steel and .040″ aluminum. For enhanced safety, it is equipped with a front-mounted auto/safety switch. The seamer operates bi-directionally when using the 90-degree single-lock tooling and functions in a forward direction with the 180-degree double-lock tooling.

ESE Machines Inc

ESE K9 Single Lock Power Seamer

The ESE K9 Single Lock Power Seamer is designed for 1″ or 1 ½” standing seams. It handles steel up to 24 gauge, is compatible with Grade C and D materials, but not recommended for Grade E, COR-TEN, or Everlast G90. It also supports aluminum at 0.032″ (with an optional 0.040″) and copper at 20 oz. Powered by a 7-amp, 115V single-phase electric motor, this seamer offers both forward and reverse operation. Weighing 40 lbs., it features adjustable seam heights of 1″ or 1 ½” and works with painted or unpainted materials, seaming at 30 feet per minute. However, it is not compatible with Schlebach or Liberty Panels, and proper preparation of at least 16″ is recommended using the 001 or 001C tools. 

ESE K9 Double Lock Power Seamer

The ESE K9 Double Lock Power Seamer is built for creating 1″ or 1 ½” double lock standing seams in one pass. It handles steel up to 24 gauge, compatible with Grade C and D materials, but not recommended for Grade E, COR-TEN, or Everlast G90. It also supports aluminum at 0.032″ (with an optional 0.040″) and copper at 20 oz. Powered by a 7-amp, 115V single-phase electric motor, this seamer can be converted to single lock with optional rolls. Weighing 40 lbs., it features adjustable seam heights of 1″ or 1 ½”, operates at 30 feet per minute, and includes a spring-loaded swing-away handle for easier use. The seamer works with both painted and unpainted materials but is not compatible with Schlebach or Liberty Panels. For optimal operation, prepare at least 16″ with the 001 or 001C tools and 8″ with the 099. 

Malco

Malco seamers must be purchased through a local, national, or online distributor. A distributor list can be found on the Malco website. Prices may vary according to the distributor.

FSXS Standing Seam Seamer

The Malco FSXS Power Assisted Seamer operates on 1″ or 1 ½” single and double mechanical lock standing seam panels. It completes the seaming process in one pass without requiring a hand seamer. Attached to a cordless drill, this seamer can achieve speeds up to 98 feet per minute, covering 1,076 square feet in just 7 minutes. This tool is ideal for roofing professionals working with stainless steel, steel, aluminum, copper, and zinc materials. The seamer is packaged in a premium IP 67 case with custom foam inserts for secure storage and transport.

FSXS2 Power Assisted Metal Seamer

The Malco FSXS2 Power Assisted Metal Seamer is designed for hand-held seaming on standing seam installations. The FSXS2 creates a 2-stage lock on 2” panels, offering reliable performance for Stainless Steel, Steel, Aluminum, Copper, and Zinc materials. This seamer attaches directly to your cordless drill for quick and easy operation. For added safety, it features a blind hole for tethering. The unit comes packaged in a premium IP 67 case with custom foam inserts for secure storage and transport. 

Rentals

Quality Roof Seamers

Quality Roof Seamers rents electric self-propelled power seamers. All seamers rent for $57 per business day. Contractors are responsible for the delivery cost. Quality Roof Seamers will cover the return cost.

3-Station Seamer

The 3-station machine is designed for bi-directional seaming of single-lock panels with 1-inch to 1 ½-inch tall ribs. Capable of handling materials up to 24 gauge, it operates at an efficient speed of approximately 40’/ min. Weighing 35 lbs., this seamer features a polished aircraft aluminum construction, making it highly portable and easy to maneuver on job sites.

4-Station Seamer

The 4-station machine offers versatility for bi-directional seaming of single-lock panels or can be set up for double-lock on trapezoidal panels. It handles materials up to 22 gauge and operates at a speed of approximately 30’/ minute. Weighing 50 lbs., this machine is constructed with polished aircraft aluminum.

5-Station QuadLok

The 5-Station QuadLok Seamer is a single-pass roof seamer designed for use on architectural or trapezoidal panels with a return hook on the female leg. Operating at a speed of approximately 30’/ minute, this machine is lightweight at 60 lbs. and built for portability with polished aircraft aluminum construction. 

5-Station TripleLok 

The 5-Station TripleLok Seamer is designed for bi-directional use on architectural or trapezoidal panels with a return hook on the female side of the panel. It operates at a speed of approximately 30’/minute and weighs 60 lbs. Constructed with polished aircraft aluminum, this machine offers durability and ease of use.

BD 360 

This bi-directional 3-inch trapezoidal roof seamer is designed to seam up to 22-gauge material to a double lock. Weighing 58 lbs., it offers easy portability with its polished aircraft aluminum construction. 

DS 150

The DS 150 seamer will seam architectural style 1” to 1 ½” rib heights. This is a single direction seamer that the finished seam is a double lock. Machine seams 35 to 40 feet a minute depending on the gauge of material. The thicker the material the slower the machine. At 24-gauge material the machine will run up to 35 feet a minute.

D.I. Roof Seamers

D.I. Roof Seamers is one of the most well-known seamer suppliers in the business. It’s worth noting that they charge by the day anywhere from $50-$65, depending on the profile. Also, daily charges include weekends and holidays. The contractor is responsible for all shipping costs.

Industrial Series—3 Station Roof Seamer

These self-propelled machines offer hands-free operation and are powered by a durable 110v electric motor with a quick-disconnect plug, making them ideal for use with 22 to 26-gauge panels. Capable of bi-directional operation on certain panel types, these machines come packaged in a sturdy Pelican case for secure transport and storage. Please note that specialized tooling may be required for some panels. 

Industrial Series – 4 Station Roof Seamer

These machines are self-propelled to provide hands-free operation and are built with a durable 110v electric motor with a quick-disconnect plug. This machine is recommended for use with 22 to 26-gauge panels.

Industrial Series – 5 Station Roof Seamer

The 5 Station Roof Seamer delivers quality seams on the hook panel and other industrial panel profiles produced by leading manufacturers in the industry. These machines are self-propelled to provide hands-free operation and are built with a 110v electric motor with a quick-disconnect plug. This machine is recommended for use with 22 to 26-gauge panels. 

Industrial Series: T-Style Roof Seamer

These machines are self-propelled to provide hands-free operation and are built with a durable 110v electric motor with a quick-disconnect plug. This machine is bi-directional and is recommended for use with 22 to 26-gauge panels.

So How Do I Decide on the Right Power Seamer?

Without a doubt a power seamer can save you money in labor and time on the job. Choosing the best power seamer really depends on the size of the job, the seam height, and the roof specs. If it’s consistent from job to job, you could consider purchasing one. However, if you’re installing a variety of mechanical seam panel sizes, or you’re doing snap lock standing seam with occasional mechanical seam jobs, renting is probably your best option.

When making your decision, you’ll want to consider the following:

1. Seamer Compatibility with Panel Profiles

• Ensure the seamer is compatible with the specific panel profile you’ll be working with, such as single lock or double lock.

2. Number of Stations

• Consider whether you need a 3-station, 4-station, or 5-station seamer, depending on the seam type (e.g., single lock or double lock) and the complexity of the profile.

3. Condition and Maintenance

• Ask about the condition of the rented equipment, such as the overall wear and tear of the machine.

4. Ease of Setup and Use

• Evaluate how user-friendly the seamer is, including setup instructions and any required adjustments for different panel types. Check the company website for instructional manuals and videos.

5. Rental Costs

• Compare the daily, weekly, or monthly rental rates and calculate if renting is more cost-effective than purchasing, especially for short-term projects. Also, factor in any shipping costs.

6. Technical Support and Training

• Confirm if the rental provider offers technical support, instructional videos, or training for the seamer to ensure your crew can operate it safely and effectively. Ensure that customer service representatives are available if something goes wrong. Ask about their policy if the machine needs to be replaced due to malfunctioning.

7. Availability of Spare Parts

• Ask if spare parts like drive wheels and other components are included or easily available in case of unexpected repairs.

8. Seamer Speed and Efficiency

• Evaluate the seamer’s speed (feet per minute) and consistency in forming the seam, as this affects overall project timelines.

9. Transport and Mobility

• Consider the size and weight of the seamer for ease of transport and mobility on the job site. Some machines are heavy and less portable, so you’ll want to what kind of case is provided and how best to transport it.

10. Rental Agreement Terms

• Review the rental terms carefully, including potential penalties for late returns, damage liabilities, and included accessories or consumables. These machines can cost many thousands of dollars, so you want to know your financial responsibility if anything should happen.

11. Insurance and Liability Coverage

• Ensure that insurance covers any potential damages to the seamer while it’s in your possession, as repair costs can be substantial.

12. Seamer Compatibility with Job Site Conditions

• Evaluate whether the seamer is suitable for your specific job site conditions, such as roof pitch, weather, and accessibility challenges.

At New Tech Machinery, it’s part of our mission to support our customers with valuable content that we hope will contribute to their success. Our metal roof, wall panel, and gutter machines are designed with manufacturers and contractors in mind. We stay in touch with our customers so that we can ensure we are producing the very best machines for their operations.

For information about any of our rollforming machines or accessories, contact us or call 303-294-0538.

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