As we contemplated additional needs in the contracting trade, we realized that a metal panel was sometimes challenging to mark without a helper and did not always get marked correctly. To fix this we developed a series of tools: Ridge-LSS, Ridge-L, and Ridge-L9. These tools allow one person to mark a line on a full panel, up to a 12/12 pitch, and maintain the same angle from panel to panel. Only the long or short measurement is needed to line up the mark for the next panel.

Other methods are to use a board or long level to act as the straightedge, but two people are needed. You put marks at each edge and use a chalk line or a pencil to mark the panel. Many contractors have told us about being off on the line by “only a little bit,” and that ruined the sheet of metal they were using.

Crisp, clean lines, and consistency is the secret to having an attractive building. Hearing, “If you can build my neighbors to look that good, I want you to build one for me also,” is music to a contractors’ ears.

The Ridge-LSS is one of our standing seam metal roof tools. It fits on the top edge of the panel with a slide to hold a marking pencil. The pencil can go to the bottom of the panel, where the mark is made on the sheet.