How To Accurately Cut Corrugated Metal With Tin Snips

Cutting corrugated metal may seem daunting, but you can quickly transform metal sheets into precise and custom shapes with the right tools and techniques. Tin snips are your trusty companions in this endeavour, offering a versatile and efficient means of cutting corrugated metal. In this guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process, providing practical tips and insights to help you master cutting corrugated metal with tin snips.

Steps To Cut Corrugated Metal With Tin Snips

Choosing the right tin snips

Before diving into the cutting process for your metal roofing, selecting the appropriate tin snips for the job is essential. There are three types of tin snips: straight-cut, left-cut, and right-cut.

Straight-cut snips are ideal for making long, straight cuts, while left-cut and right-cut snips are designed for cutting curves in their respective directions. Straight-cut snips are generally the best choice for cutting corrugated sheet metal, providing stability and precision.

Preparing the workspace

Creating a conducive workspace is crucial for a smooth and efficient cutting process. Begin by securing the corrugated metal sheet firmly on a stable surface using clamps or other suitable methods.

Ensure the metal sheet is durable and won't shift during cutting. Additionally, wear safety gear, including gloves and safety glasses, to save yourself from sharp edges and metal shards.

Marking the cut line

Precision is critical when working with corrugated metal, so take the time to mark your cut line accurately. Use a straightedge or a ruler to draw a clear and straight line along the metal sheet where you intend to cut. This guideline will be a reference point, ensuring your cuts are clean and precise.

Starting the cut

It's time to start cutting with the metal sheet securely in place and the cut line marked. Position the tin snips at the beginning of the cut line, ensuring that the blades are aligned with the marked guideline. Begin the cut by applying steady pressure and smoothly closing the aviation snips. Avoid rushing the process; a controlled and deliberate approach yields better results.

Maintaining control

As you progress along the cut line, it's essential to maintain control over the tin snips and the metal sheet. Keep a firm grip on the handles of the tin snips and guide them along the marked line with steady, even pressure. If you're making a curved cut, adjust the angle of the tin snips accordingly, allowing for a smooth and controlled movement.

Handling curves

You may encounter curves or intricate shapes when cutting corrugated metal with tin snips. To navigate these areas effectively, use the appropriate type of tin snips. Straight-cut snips can still be used for gentle curves, while tighter curves may require left-cut or right-cut snips. Take your time and make incremental cuts if necessary, ensuring each cut contributes to your desired overall shape.

Dealing with corners

When reaching corners or angles, it's crucial to approach them strategically. Stop cutting before reaching the corner, reposition the tin snips, and continue cutting from the adjacent side. This method helps prevent overcutting and ensures a clean and precise corner.

Finishing touches

Once you've completed the cut, inspect the edges for any sharp burrs or rough spots and use an angle grinder or sandpaper to smooth out the edges, ensuring a clean and safe finish. Taking the time for these finishing touches enhances the overall quality of your cut and reduces the risk of injuries from sharp edges.

Cutting Corrugated Metal With Tin Snips: Mistakes to Avoid 

Cutting corrugated metal with tin snips is not easy, but with the proper techniques and a keen eye for potential pitfalls, you can achieve clean and precise results. Whether tackling a DIY project or a professional installation, avoiding common mistakes is crucial to ensuring a successful outcome.

This section will help you explore the mistakes to avoid when cutting corrugated metal with tin snips, offering valuable insights to help you achieve accurate cuts and save time and resources.

Choosing the wrong tin snips

The first step to success is selecting the right tin snips for the job. Different types of tin snips are designed for specific materials and cutting styles. Mistakenly using the wrong tin snips can result in jagged edges, uneven cuts, and unnecessary frustration. Understand the type of corrugated metal you are working with and choose tin snips that match its thickness and composition.

Neglecting safety measures

Safety should always be a top priority when working with tools, and cutting corrugated metal is no exception. Neglecting safety measures such as wearing gloves and safety glasses can lead to injuries from sharp edges and metal shards. Additionally, consider hearing protection significantly when cutting large or thick sheets, as the noise generated by tin snips can be surprisingly loud.

Skipping the marking process

Rushing through the marking process is a common mistake that can result in inaccurate cuts. Take the time to measure and mark your cutting lines precisely before starting the cutting process. This simple step can keep you from wasting materials and ensure your project progresses smoothly.

Inadequate support for the material

Corrugated metal sheets can be unwieldy, making it essential to provide proper support during cutting. Failing to secure the material adequately can lead to bending or warping, resulting in imprecise cuts. Use sawhorses or a stable work surface to support the metal and prevent unnecessary movement during cutting.

Ignoring the cutting line

Tin snips are designed to follow a straight cutting line. Ignoring the marked line and veering off course can result in uneven edges and a less-than-professional finish. Take your time and focus on the cutting line, making gradual and controlled cuts to achieve the desired result.

Using dull tin snips

Over time, tin snips can become dull, mainly if used frequently on rigid materials like corrugated metal. Using dull snips makes the cutting process more challenging and produces rough edges. Regularly sharpen your tin snips to ensure clean, efficient cuts. Invest in quality snips that can be easily sharpened or replaced when needed.

Incorrect cutting technique

Mastering the correct cutting technique is crucial when using tin snips on corrugated metal. Avoid rushing the process or making long, continuous cuts without pausing. Instead, make short, controlled cuts, allowing the tin snips to do the work. This approach minimises the metal's bending risk and ensures greater cut accuracy.

Overlooking material thickness

Different corrugated metal sheets come in varying thicknesses. Failing to account for the material thickness can lead to inadequate cutting force, resulting in jagged edges and a time-consuming process. Choose tin snips suitable for the thickness of the metal you work with to ensure optimal cutting performance.

Neglecting tool maintenance

Regular maintenance of your tin snips is crucial for their long-term effectiveness. Lubricate the pivot point regularly and clean up any debris from the blades to prevent rust and maintain smooth cutting action. Well-maintained tin snips will not only provide better effects but also extend the lifespan of your tools.

Leave Cutting Metal Roofing To The Experts

As clearly outlined in this guide, mastering the art of cutting metal sheets with tin snips requires patience, precision, and the right tools. You can achieve professional-looking results by choosing the appropriate tin snips, preparing your workspace, marking your cut line accurately, and adopting a controlled cutting technique.

Whether working on a DIY project or tackling a home improvement task, following these steps will empower you to cut corrugated metal confidently and precisely. So, gear up, prepare your tin snips, and transform metal sheets into customised masterpieces.

However, get in touch with professionals for a more beautiful and refined outcome and let them handle your project. Professional expertise and experience can elevate the quality of the results, whether it's a home renovation, landscaping project, or any other endeavour.

Their skill, attention to detail, and access to specialised tools and techniques can significantly affect the final outcome. Entrusting your project to professionals ensures a smooth, efficient process and a stunning and lasting result that exceeds your expectations.