If you're getting a metal roof installed, one of the smallest parts might have the biggest impact on how long it lasts: the fasteners. If you've ever had a leak in your metal roof, you know how hard it can be to find where the water is getting in.
Most of the time, it's not the metal panel that fails, but the screws that connect them together. Regular roofing fasteners often leak, rust, or work loose over time. They become the "weak link" in what should be a strong, long-lasting system. That's where Pro-Z fasteners come in.
At Equity Roofing, we've been using Pro-Z fasteners for over three years, and we recommend them on almost every exposed-fastener metal roof we install. In this article, we'll explain exactly what they are, how they work, and whether they're worth the extra cost.
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If you’re planning on a new metal roof, this is a must-read.
Pro-Z fasteners are high-performance roofing screws designed specifically for exposed-fastener metal roofs. They represent the latest step forward in fastener design, solving many of the problems that came with older styles.
The evolution of metal roofing fasteners tells an interesting story. Originally, roofers used nails with rubber gaskets. These failed quickly because UV light and moisture would break them down. Next came screws with rubber gaskets, which were better, but still had issues with over-driving, gasket exposure, and rust.
Pro-Z fasteners combine advanced design and materials to protect your roof better and last longer than previous options.
Glance through a quick side-by-side comparison of Pro-Z and standard fasteners:
| Feature | Pro-Z Fasteners | Standard Fasteners |
| Gasket Protection | Full metal cover | Exposed to UV |
| Rust Resistance | Zinc-aluminum cap | No long-term rust resistance |
| Overdriving Protection | Built-in stop mechanism | Common to overdrive |
| Warranty Coverage | Leak & rust warranty | None or limited specs |
| Upfront Cost | 2x standard price | Lower initial cost |
| Long-term Value | Better durability | Higher maintenance risk |
On a $20,000 roof, upgrading to Pro-Z Fasteners adds just $200-500 total. When compared to potential repair costs from failed fasteners years later, the return on investment is strong, especially since Pro-Z fasteners come with a 50-year warranty that standard screws don't offer.
| Home Type and Size | Exposed Fastener with PRO-Z |
| Small Ranch 2,200–2,900 sq ft |
$10,000–$13,000 |
| Medium Cape Cod ~3,200 sq ft |
$15,000–$18,000 |
| Large Complex Roof 3,600–5,000+ sq ft |
$20,000+ |
For most exposed-fastener metal roof installations, Pro-Z fasteners are worth the investment. They're especially valuable when:
The only situations where standard fasteners might be a superior option are temporary structures, such as sheds, or situations where the lowest possible upfront cost is the primary priority.
Most homeowners don't know that fastener quality varies significantly. Always confirm what fastener your contractor intends to use. Many roofers still use standard fasteners because they're used to traditional methods, want to keep costs low, or assume customers won't ask.
If your roofer is not using Pro-Z fasteners, request them or consider hiring another contractor. Remember: your roof is only as strong as its weakest link.
For exposed-fastener metal roofs, Pro-Z fasteners represent a significant improvement over traditional options. They solve the two main failure points of older fasteners: leaking and rusting. While they cost more upfront, the additional expense is small compared to your total roof investment.
Now that you know the value of exposed fasteners, take a deeper dive into the overall cost of your roof with the 2025 Cost of Your Roof Guide. It will break down how your price may shift depending on the size and complexity of your roof, how to get an accurate roof replacement quote, and financing options.
At Equity Roofing, we include Pro-Z fasteners in all our exposed-fastener metal roofs because we've seen firsthand how traditional fasteners can fail after 10-15 years. It’s a small detail that makes a huge difference for our homeowners.