Tin Snips

Choosing tin snips for metal roofing

Tin snips and tin shears are the same tool by two names: hand cutters for sheet metal. On a roof, most people carry a pair of aviation snips, because the compound action makes cutting steel sheet far easier on the hand.

Aviation snips are made to cut in one direction. Left cut snips curve to the left and right cut snips to the right, and both cut straight. The handles are colour coded on many brands: red for left, green for right, and yellow for straight. The Wiss M1R is red left cut and the M2R is green right cut. A left and right pair, like the Midwest offset combo, covers most flashing work.

Upright snips have the handles in line with the blades. Offset snips put the handles above the blades, so your hand stays clear of the sheet on a long cut. The Midwest 250 mm right offset snip lists a capacity of 18 gauge cold rolled steel. For long straight cuts, the Midwest straight offset long cut snip is the one to look at.

Hand seamers fold rather than cut. The Midwest seamers come in 127, 229 and 381 mm jaws, in straight and offset handles, for bending flashing and trim on site.

For a lot of cutting, the Milwaukee 18V metal shear has a 360 degree rotating head. It is sold as a skin, so the battery is separate. Notchers and other roofing tools are in metal roofing tools.

Tin snips FAQs

Are tin snips and tin shears the same thing?

Yes. Both names mean hand cutters for sheet metal. Aviation snips are the compound action type most roofers use.

Do I need left or right cut snips?

Left cut snips curve left and right cut snips curve right. Many roofers carry a pair so they can follow any line.

What is a hand seamer for?

Folding and bending flashing, fascia and trim on site. It grips the sheet edge and bends it to a clean line.

Can tin snips be posted Australia-wide?

Many can be couriered Australia-wide at the rate checkout shows. Some are pickup or Victorian delivery only, and checkout shows which.