Hand Seamer

A hand seamer, also called hand tongs or simply tongs in some trades, is a manual tool for bending and seaming thin sheet metal. It looks like oversized pliers with broad, flat jaws and long handles that give leverage. Roofers, sheet metal workers, gutter installers and HVAC technicians use seamers for small bends and touch-ups where a sheet metal brake is impractical, such as on the roof itself.

Types

• Straight seamers with forged straight jaws are the general-purpose type; a 3 in (about 75 mm) jaw is a common first tool, with 6 in (about 150 mm) and wider jaws for longer bends.
• Offset seamers have handles angled up from the jaws so the user's knuckles clear the surface, which helps when bending metal lying flat on the roof.
• Standing seam seamers have jaws sized to the seam height and are used to form or close mechanically seamed panels in places where power seamers cannot reach. First-stage and second-stage seamers form the 90-degree and 180-degree folds of a double-lock seam.
• Specialty seamers include curved jaws for rounded flashing, narrow jaws for tight spaces, and combination tools that also crimp.

Many jaws are scribed with depth marks, for example in 1/4 in (about 6 mm) increments, so bends can be made at a consistent depth.

Uses in roofing

• Turning up and hemming the ends of standing seam panels at eaves, ridges and walls.
• Forming and adjusting flashing around chimneys, skylights and pipes.
• Closing seams and folds at details.
• Shaping gutter end caps, corners and outlets.
• Straightening damaged edges.

Choosing and using

The jaw opening should suit the depth of the hem or seam: too narrow and it will not grip, too wide and the fold may be weak. Seamers rated for the metal type and gauge avoid marking or cracking painted panels. Smooth jaws or protective sleeves help prevent scratches on coated metal, which can become corrosion points.