Hemming and Seaming an Edge on Coil Stock Using a Tapco Brake

How to bend two basic shapes on a Tapco brake
March 9, 2023

One of the simplest bends to learn when working with coil stock sheet metal is hemming an edge. Going one step further, you can create a seaming connection.

How to hem the edge of sheet metal

  • Use the front of the brake as a guide to align the edge of the sheet metal. This will yield a consistent 3/4-inch hem.
  • Fold the brake up as far as the hinge will allow
  • Remove the workpiece and drop it into the hinge pocket, lifting up on the hinge to pull it into the top of the banana-shaped slots, and bend up with the hinge handle. This closes the bend from the previous step.

How to form a hem into a seam:

  • Reinsert the workpiece into the brake until out outer edge of the hem is aligned with the outer edge of the brake
  • Bend up as far as you can
  • Repeat the process of lifting the hinge and closing the bend.

These are two critical bends that every roofing, siding, and remodeling professional needs to know.

About the Author

Tapco Tools

Serving professional siding applicators since 1961, Tapco brakes and accessories bring measuring, mobility, decorative designs, and strengthening ribs to fascia, window trims, frieze boards, porch posts, and beams.

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