HY-C Blog

Top Metal Roofing + Siding Systems Explained

Written by Kyla Pehr | Mar 6, 2026 3:30:00 PM

Pest-Blok™ by HY-GUARD EXCLUSION®, created in conjunction with Pest-Blok inventor Will Langman, is a new product line made to block pests from entering metal roofs, metal siding, and vinyl siding corners.

Launching in Spring 2026, the Corrugated Exclusion Strip™ covers almost three feet at a time, removing the need to install small inserts between every rib. It seals the open gaps in metal roof panels at the ridge and along the bottom edges.

Four distinct strip profiles are available, engineered for each common metal panel type:

  • Agricultural panels
  • Commercial panels
  • Industrial panels
  • Standing seam panels

And each strip profile comes in two versions:

  • Ridge (roof peak)
  • Lower edge (eave, drip edge, bottom panel)

But what makes these panel systems different? And how do you know which one you’re working with?

What are agricultural panels?

Agricultural panels (often referred to as ag panels) are versatile, durable, and cost-effective metal roofing and siding systems with visible screws.

Key identifiers (dimensions may vary)

  • 9" center-to-center rib spacing
  • ¾” rib height
  • 36" coverage
  • 29 gauge to 26 gauge steel
  • Exposed fasteners
  • Typical minimum 3:12 roof slope

Common uses

  • Pole barns
  • Livestock buildings
  • Equipment storage
  • Detached garages

Why you’re likely to encounter this panel system

  • Most affordable metal option
  • Fast, simple installation
  • Strong weather resistance
  • Widely available and easy to replace

Why this matters for pest and wildlife pros: Ag panels have larger, more irregular gaps — prime entry points for birds, bats, rodents, and insects.

What are commercial metal panels?

Commercial panels balance performance, appearance, and energy efficiency. They’re used where aesthetics and code compliance matter.

Key identifiers (dimensions may vary)

  • ~6” center-to-center rib spacing
  • ~¾” rib height
  • 36" coverage
  • 26 gauge to 22 gauge steel
  • Exposed or concealed fasteners
  • Typical minimum ¼:12 roof slope

Common uses

  • Retail centers
  • Office buildings
  • Schools
  • Warehouses

Why this panel system is commonly used

  • Energy efficient
  • Long-lasting
  • Clean, professional appearance
  • Designed for code compliance

Why this matters for pest and wildlife pros: Tighter profiles still leave consistent gaps along ridges and eaves where nesting birds and insects enter.

What are industrial metal panels?

Industrial panels are thicker, stronger systems built for large facilities and harsh conditions.

Key identifiers (dimensions may vary)

  • 12” center-to-center rib spacing
  • 1¼” rib height
  • 36" coverage width
  • 29 gauge to 22 gauge steel
  • Exposed or concealed fasteners
  • Typical minimum ¼:12 roof slope

Common uses

  • Factories
  • Manufacturing plants
  • Cold storage
  • Distribution centers

Why this profile shows up on large facilities

  • Built for harsh environments
  • Strong impact resistance
  • High thermal performance
  • Long service life in tough conditions

Why this matters for pest and wildlife pros: Larger ribs create deeper voids, which are ideal for birds, starlings, pigeons, and larger rodents to get inside.

What are standing seam panels?

Standing seam panels are a premium roofing system with raised vertical seams and concealed fasteners for maximum water protection.

Key identifiers (dimensions may vary)

  • 16" seam spacing
  • 1” and ¾” seam heights
  • 16" coverage width
  • 26 gauge to 24 gauge steel
  • Hidden fasteners
  • Typical minimum ½:12 roof slope

Common uses

  • Custom homes
  • Commercial buildings
  • Architectural wall accents

Why does a homeowner choose standing seam panels?

  • Superior leak protection
  • Modern, architectural appearance
  • Minimal fastener maintenance
  • Long lifespan

Why this matters for pest and wildlife pros: Standing seam roofs have fewer fastener penetrations but still leave consistent ridge and edge gaps pests exploit.

Four types, one solution

Every metal panel system has both a different profile and different gaps that pests can exploit.

The Corrugated Exclusion Strip from the Pest-Blok by HY-GUARD EXCLUSION line is designed to match each system precisely, whether you're working with agricultural, commercial, industrial, or standing seam panels.

With the right profile at the ridge or lower edge, you can:

  • Seal openings faster
  • Protect the structure long-term
  • Eliminate tedious rib-by-rib inserts

One strip. Fewer steps. Stronger protection.