5 Roll Bending Features

Roll Bending Tools

The roll bending portable brake has many positive features that make it desirable. Owning and using these types of tools will separate the roofer from the craftsmen because the devil is in the details. Let’s look at 5 positive features of roll benders.

1. No Bending Length Constraint – This positive is easy to understand when you have a 30 ft gable piece that needs a hem. The roll bending tool bends smooth and without a length constraint.

2. Portable – It cannot be stressed enough that these tools only weigh 10 lbs or less. There is no more running back to the shop to make bends. If you have a table set up on site, you can make any simple or profile bends on site. This saves considerable time.

3. Make Profile Bends – An overlooked aspect of the roll bender is making multiple bends for profiles. It’s simple to make wall transitions, eave details, or mechanical lock profiles. It may take a bit more time than from a pan former or electronic brake, but having this ability in a pinch can be a job saver.

4. Time = Money – There are a few ways to look at setting up for a job and one is purchasing all the materials from the metal supplier. If you consider the few hundred dollar investment to get set up for a lifetime of bends, there is no limit to how much money you may save from utilizing the tool in various places throughout your career.

5. No Bend Marks – Perhaps trivial when compared to purchased trim pieces, but no so much when you bend with 3″ hand tongs. The difference between marks and smooth transitions is the difference between expert and novice. These tools are professional bending tools.

Other Ways to Bend Metal

• Pan Formers & Trim Machines – The quickest and cheapest way to form pre-fabricated panels and trim pieces is with machines built specifically to do that task. Distributors will charge you by the foot and this will alleviate your need to hand bend any pieces.

• Brakes – Larger bending set ups that are shop oriented. Max bends are usually around 10 ft which can be limiting for longer panel bends. They tend to have greater strength for thicker material and can make extremely precise straight bends quickly.
• Sheet metal pliers – Useful for bending material in small intervals. They find their place in detail work such as flashing or bends on a concentrated area on the job site. Negatives is that you’ll notice crimp marks.
• Hand folders – Can used for lighter gauge material and making quick, straight bends.