Originally Published as: Looking Beyond the Waves
If you’ve been around standing seam metal roofing for any length of time, you’ve probably heard the term oil canning. Maybe you’ve seen it on a project, answered questions from a customer about it, or wondered what really causes those subtle waves that sometimes appear in flat metal panels.
The truth is, oil canning has been part of the conversation for decades. (The “Flashback” article in this issue, written by then-associate editor Jim Austin, was published in 2006!) While it’s often misunderstood, industry experts agree that it’s generally an aesthetic characteristic—not a structural problem or a sign that a roof won’t perform as intended. That doesn’t mean it should be ignored. Understanding what contributes to oil canning—from panel design and manufacturing to roof deck conditions, thermal movement, and installation practices—helps roofers set realistic expectations and deliver the best possible finished product.
That’s exactly why Metal Roofing Magazine exists.
Our mission has always been to provide practical, trustworthy information that helps metal roofing professionals become more successful and better at what they do. Whether we’re exploring technical topics like oil canning, sharing installation best practices, highlighting innovative products, or introducing you to successful roofers and manufacturers, our goal is the same: to give you information you can put to work.
As we begin planning our 2027 editorial calendar, we’d like your input. What challenges are you facing? What new products, technologies, installation techniques, or business issues would you like us to explore? Some of our best story ideas come directly from readers who are working in the field every day.
If there’s a topic you’d like to see covered—or if you have expertise you’d be willing to share—we’d love to hear from you. Together, we can continue building a magazine that reflects the questions, opportunities, and innovations shaping the metal roofing industry.
Karen Knapstein, Managing Editor
