Tag: weather-resistant roof

Metal Roof Pitch Part II: Panel Selection for Your Building End-Use

Posted on by Ken Buchinger

In part one of our series on metal panel roof pitch, we looked at the engineering and strength considerations that need to be taken into account when designing or specifying a building. In part two, we’ll review how to make the right metal panel selection for your building end-use by looking at the building type and roof pitch to find the optimal combination of form and function.

Types of roof panels:

Different types of metal roof panels are better suited for certain roof pitches and this mostly has to do with panel rib height and how they’re seamed together. For instance, the lower the pitch, the taller the rib of the roof panel needs to be in order to optimize water carrying capacity. Also, the lower the pitch, the slower water runs off the roof; combined with wind pressure, this can hold water at the eave. As an example:

  • On 2:12 and lower pitches for commercial/industrial jobs, weathertightness warranties will use a mechanically seamed panel because it creates an impenetrable lock that keep water from seeping between the panels. Seamed panels can be thought of as more hydrostatic (resistant to water), whereas non-seamed panels are hydrokinetic, i.e., water runs off of them, but they are not designed to be a water barrier.

Building Type and Use:

Whether residential, post-frame or commercial, structures follow general design criteria regarding metal roof slope, based on to the building type and use. For instance:

Gabled v. Hipped: gabled roofs provide more interior headroom while with hipped roofs, endwall sheet height can be reduced, making for easier ordering and installation as you don’t have to cut/miter the sheets.

  • Residential v. Post-Frame and Commercial Use: While it can generally be assumed that thicker-gauge panels are stronger, the type of building construction, location and end-use can affect the choice in panel thickness. Residential roofs generally have steeper slopes (often due to aesthetic sensibilities), while commercial and post-frame buildings will typically have a shallower pitch to increase the strength of the building. Buildings such as pole barns, post-frame buildings, warehouses and garages can require roof panels to span longer distances between supporting trusses and purlins and therefore require thicker panels to ensure the roof is structurally sound and can aid in reducing the chance of collapse under the weight of snow and water—particularly when the roof pitch is low. For smaller buildings—like residences—with supporting trusses and purlins that are typically closer together, thinner panels can be used in conjunction with thicker trim for an economic, structurally ideal residential metal roofing system. See our blog on metal panel gauges for more.
  • Economics: When a roof has a shallower pitch, less material is needed to cover the same roof span. This can be more economical since fewer square feet of material needs to be purchased, or at least help in offsetting the cost of the thicker panels commonly used on low-slope roof—a consideration often important to companies with multiple properties. Likewise, while more material may need to be purchased for a high-sloped roof, you may be able to buy thinner, less expensive panels since high-slope roofs don’t typically need to be able to support heavier loads like low-slope roofs do.
  • Aesthetics: Traditional residences typically feature a higher roof pitch while this may be less important to commercial building owners. However—from a functional standpoint—thicker panels can be more forgiving of installation errors such as over-tightened screws and aren’t as likely to transfer waves and bumps in sheathing.

Solar Panels and Roof Pitch:

The geographic location of a structure will determine the angle at which the solar panels should be installed. Generally. the closer to the equator you get, the lower the slope the solar panels can tolerate as roofs closer to the equator have more consistent exposure to sunlight as compared to those farther away. If you plan to add solar panels to your metal roof, be sure to check the Solar Reflective Index (SRI) values and minimum slopes set by the ASTM and local governing codes. These standards will advise adequate slope based on your location as well as help control things such as heat island effects, etc.  For more information on solar reflectance and how it is affected by the color of your metal roof panels, see our blog post on cool metal roofs.

Conclusion:

Roof slope is a factor that affects many decisions when it comes to any metal building roofing project regardless of the building’s end use. When embarking on any metal roofing project, be sure that the panels you’ve selected meet local building codes and are produced by a quality manufacturer with knowledge and experience designing for different applications to ensure you get exactly what you’re looking for. For more information on metal panel selection for your building end-use and to learn more about recommendations on roof slope for different building types, contact your local ABC representative today.

 Additional Resources:

For more information on slope requirements, visit NRCA’s website. For more information on steep-slope metal roofs and their benefits, visit the Metal Construction Association’s website.

Metal Roof Pitch Part I: Engineering and Strength Considerations

Posted on by David Lester

Whether you’re an owner who needs to consider roofing material options because of the nature or design of your building, or a distributor/contractor whose job it is to recognize whether a suggested design will or won’t work based on a range of circumstances, it is critical to understand the engineering behind why roof pitch and tensile strength are important on a metal building project. In part one of our series, we look at the engineering and strength considerations that need to be taken into account when designing or specifying a building, while part two will review the best type of metal panel to use based on the pitch and end-use of your building,

Engineering Considerations:

Ideally, your roof pitch will be the “sweet spot” between having a roof pitch that’s so shallow that the beared load is increased and having a roof pitch that’s so steep that wind uplift probability is increased—a factor which can also vary based on the building width. Specific engineering considerations with regard to roof slope include:

  • Snow Load Requirements: lower slopes create more load that the roof/structure must support. For example, when you have a flat roof and it snows, the snow will stay on the roof, adding more weight; on a sloped roof, a good amount of the snow will slide off of the roof, so the load will remain in an acceptable range the structure can support.
  • Wind Load: Preventing roof damage from high winds is largely dependent on roof geometry, slope and building material used. If outside air is allowed to penetrate a structure through cracks and other openings when wind flows over a building, the air pressure beneath the roof assembly increases. When this pressure becomes greater than the pressure directly above the roof (which happens as wind flows over a building), this can cause upward force on the roof system, leading to loss of structural integrity and significant damage. Wind uplift rating and minimum slope requirements are dictated by building codes in the market, so be sure to check with your local municipality for specific details.
  • Water Diversion: the steeper the pitch the faster it will channel and divert water, preventing it from pooling and causing other issue like mold, mildew and paint degradation. As with the snow load considerations mentioned above, the less additional weight burdening the roofing system, the better.
  • Minimizing Debris: steeper-sloped roofs also help minimize the chance that debris, mold and mildew have to build up on the roofing system. Unless there is a catastrophic weather event that drops large amounts of heavy debris—tree branches for example—there is a small chance that debris on a roof of any slope will exceed its ability to carry the load. However, because the more debris is able to slide down and off of a metal roof, the less that needs to be manually cleaned. Additionally, access to and cleaning the eaves of sloped roofs is much easier and less time-consuming that trying to perform the same maintenance on a roof with less slope.

The Strength of Metal Panels:

  • Tensile strength: This refers to the panel’s ability to resist breaking when it’s placed under pressure or tension—meaning the panel has a measured ability to bend under a certain amount of stress before it snaps. Galvanized steel panels can withstand between 50,000 and 80,000 pounds of pressure per square inch (50 KSI – 80 KSI)—significantly higher than the tensile strength of other roofing materials. Despite this, metal panels remain lighter and more impact resistant, keeping the likelihood and cost of repairs to a minimum. Check the tensile strength of your metal panels with the manufacturer and be sure to reference common testing standards related to roof slope, including ISO ratings and ASTM standards that test tensile strength.
  • Steel Hardness and Density: While it can generally be assumed that thicker-gauge panels are stronger, the type of building construction, location and end-use can affect the choice in panel thickness. Buildings such as pole barns, post-frame buildings, warehouses and garages can require roof panels to span longer distances and therefore require thicker panels as they are more structurally sound. These thicker panels will also aid in reducing the chance of collapse under the weight of snow and water—particularly when the roof pitch is low. For smaller buildings—like residences—with supporting trusses and purlins that are typically closer together, thinner panels can be used in conjunction with thicker trim for an economic, structurally ideal residential metal roofing system. See our blog on metal panel gauges for more.

Conclusion:

Following common standards, doing adequate research and conforming to manufacturer guidelines regarding slope will ensure you’re reaping the full benefit of your metal roof panel selection. For more information on metal roofs and to learn more about recommendations on roof slope, contact your local ABC representative today.

Additional Resources:

For more information on slope requirements, visit NRCA’s website. For more information on steep-slope metal roofs and their benefits, visit the Metal Construction Association’s website.

Metal Panels for Tiny Homes: Part 2

Posted on by Tyler Roose

California Tiny Home

COPYRIGHT DC PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIOS.

 

In the first article in our three-part series on tiny homes we presented an overview of the tiny home trend, including lifestyle considerations and cost benefits. In the second installment, we discussed how tiny homes are built with the same types of materials, construction and aesthetics you find in larger, traditional residences. Metal panels—a popular material choice for tiny homes—provide advantages such as affordability, mobility and customization. Some additional factors in choosing metal panels for tiny home construction are weather, installation and maintenance. Here we’ll take a look at these considerations in a bit more detail.

Weather Considerations:

While building tiny homes in mild climates can be pretty straightforward, there are many built in locations that must take specific weather conditions into consideration. Just as with traditional homes, tiny homes exposed to freezing temperatures need to be winterized to keep everything functioning, and can be heavily insulated, built with air-tight, double-paned windows and designed and oriented for optimum sun exposure to keep the heat in. For warmer climates and seasons, tiny homes designed to optimize air flow and fitted with adjustable shading to protect you from the sun’s heat can be an addition to more traditional temperature regulation methods, which should of course be properly installed and serviced.

When it comes to preparing for extreme weather, there are very few additional precautions to be taken in comparison with traditional single-family homes. One exception is that tiny homes should be built with hurricane ties and straps, earthquake tie-downs and other anchors to secure the structure. Building to codes specific to any area you would plan to take your tiny home is vital to ensuring it remains undamaged and you remain safe.

The Metal Panel Difference: Metal panels from American Building Components are designed and manufactured with several environmental considerations in mind. For areas prone to hurricanes and other tropical activity, ABC offers wind-tested metal panels built to withstand gusts of up to 140 miles per hour. This strength and durability is also important for those who plan to haul their tiny homes on highways at high speeds. If heavy snow and ice are common during your winters, the fast-shedding nature of metal panel makes them ideal. Eco-friendly insulated metal panels for roof and wall applications and cool metal roofs can also help regulate the temperature of your home and offer additional energy efficiency. Metal panels are also fire resistant (unlike thatched roofs, which are a fire hazard) and can withstand hailstorms and other extreme weather events. Your metal roofing manufacturer can provide advice based on your environmental needs.

Installation and Maintenance:

Understanding the maintenance requirements of any building material used to construct a tiny home is essential to maximizing the lifespan of the structure, safeguarding your investment and reducing any headaches that could arise from poor planning and inattention to the detail. It is, therefore, important that you fully understand the material you are using and that you follow the manufacturer’s installation and maintenance instructions, which should be made readily available to you. Also, be sure to read and understand any product warranties to ensure you know about any exclusions or requirements.

The Metal Panel Difference: One caveat with metal panels for tiny homes is the precision that installers (or DIY’ers) need to use in order to get the most value out of the material. While metal panels require a greater level of accuracy during the installation process, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. Resources on how to install and care for metal panels are abundant. In addition to referencing the manufacturer’s installation manuals, you can check out their how-to videos and lean on their customer service team for support and installer recommendations.

To extend the lifespan and strength of metal panels for tiny homes, maintenance consists mostly of preventing and correcting issues such as damage from the build-up of debris as well as storm-related traumas like hail stones, falling branches, etc. For specific maintenance tips, check out our recent blog on metal panel maintenance.

The last word

The benefits metal panels offer make their use for tiny home building a no-brainer. While homes made from other materials lose value over time, metal roofs provide long-term performance and environmental benefits, cost efficiencies and extended durability for the tiny home community. For more information on ABC’s metal panels, visit our website or contact a representative today.

Metal Panels for Tiny Homes: Part 1

Posted on by Tyler Roose

In our previous blog post on tiny homes, we looked at the tiny home trend and outlined some of the pros, cons and lifestyle considerations for those interested in pursuing this increasingly popular, yet untraditional approach to housing. One of the obvious benefits is affordability, as the mere reduction of square footage lowers costs in terms of materials, labor, energy and maintenance, to name a few. Tiny homes are built with the same types of materials, construction and aesthetics you find in larger, traditional residences. Not surprisingly, metal panels are a popular material choice. Here we’ll look at the mobility and customization aspects of tiny homes and the additional advantages of choosing metal panels for tiny home construction.

Mobility

Tiny homes are typically built on trailer platforms with wheels (instead of a foundation), enabling them to be driven across the country. This mobility, however, demands that these homes are built to endure the hurricane-force winds of high-speed highway travel … no easy feat for any home.

The Metal Panel Difference: To ensure they can travel 65 mph on highways into 20 mph winds (the equivalent wind-load of a stationary house during a hurricane), many tiny home builders are turning to metal panels instead of more traditional building materials. Unlike with asphalt composition roofs, metal roofs do not need to be covered every time they’re moved as there is no concern over losing shingles while in transit.

Customization

Most homes purchased these days are significantly customizable and tiny homes are no exception. In addition to traditional customization like varying floor plans, paint color, floor material, fixture style, and interior and exterior decoration, there are also many eco-friendly customization options. Tiny homes can be built by recycling previously-used structures like shipping containers and transforming them into a living space, and can feature rainwater collection systems, composting toilets and solar array options for those looking to take their tiny homes “off the grid”. Tiny homes can also be made to be fully wheelchair accessible, as well as infant and toddler-friendly.

The Metal Panel Difference: A common misconception is that metal panels are only suitable for commercial applications. However, because they are available in a wide variety of styles, profiles and colors, metal roof and wall panels complement any residential structure, including tiny homes, making it easy to find the look that’s right for you. Beyond color choice and overall aesthetics, metal panels are manufactured and produced to provide a higher-quality building material option, giving you the aesthetic you want along with the durability you need.

The last word

The benefits metal panels offer make their use for tiny home building a no-brainer. While homes made from other materials lose value over time, metal roofs provide long-term performance and environmental benefits, cost efficiencies and extended durability for the tiny home community. For more information on ABC’s metal panels, visit our website or contact a representative today.

In the next installment of our Tiny Home series, where we go into further detail about the considerations and advantages of metal panels for tiny homes. Metal Panels for Tiny Homes: Part 2 will provide practical guidance on weather considerations, installation and maintenance.

A Big Idea: An Introduction to Tiny Homes

Posted on by Ken Buchinger

Tiny homes are more than just a passing trend popularized by television shows, opinion editorials and blogs; they are a movement born out of a growing need and desire of homeowners to downsize, customize and simplify—all the while maintaining maximum function and style. Tiny homes, in fact, offer their residents big living opportunities through their inherent cost savings and mobility, which has resulted in Tiny Home Communities popping up across the country and even around the world. But what exactly is a tiny home and why are more and more people bucking tradition to live in them?

What is a Tiny Home?

While there is no hard and set rule about what constitutes a tiny house. They are—in short—residential structures that typically measure between 100 and 400 sq./ft.; the standard newly purchased U.S. single family home takes up nearly 2,100 sq./ft.1 These homes feature the same types of materials, construction and aesthetics you find in their larger, more permanent counterparts.

Can you really live in a Tiny Home?

Tiny homes certainly aren’t for everyone. If you have a large or growing family, or just enjoy having tons of space in which to live and entertain, you’re probably better off sticking with the traditionally-sized home. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option, need a guest house, or are looking for a low-cost vacation home, tiny homes might be a great fit for you. In addition to being used as full-time residences, tiny homes are also used as short-term rental properties, and to house the homeless and those displaced as a result of destructive weather events.

Many of the concerns people have about living in a tiny home center around their need to have room for all of the things they possess: furniture, clothes, entertainment, knick-knacks, etc. It is true that those who choose to live in a tiny home shed many of their material possessions for a simpler, more minimalistic lifestyle. However, tiny homes can also be custom-built to feature loads of strategically-designed storage space to suit your lifestyle. You also don’t have to give up modern conveniences when living in a tiny home. These smaller spaces make use of generally unused or underutilized spaces to house full-size washer and dryer units, refrigerators, ovens and showers, as well as queen-size beds and fireplaces.

California Tiny Home
COPYRIGHT DC PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIOS

Cost Advantages of a Tiny Home: Affordability

The average cost to build a tiny house is $23,000 if built by the owner as compared to the $272,000 average cost for a standard-size house before interest2. In a time when a staggering 46 percent of Americans would either have to borrow money or sell something in order to cover a $400 emergency expense (as reported by the Federal Reserve Board in a recent survey), this in an attractive idea. Additionally, considering the slow-growing economy has done little to increase wages, it’s not surprising that spending one third or even one half of their monthly income on living expenses has left approximately 75 percent of American workers across a range of education and income levels living paycheck to paycheck. This includes nine percent of people earning $100,000 or more per year who feel they usually or always struggle to make ends meet (Harris Poll).

The Metal Panel Difference: While metal can—in some cases—be more expensive that more traditional building materials when initially purchased, their value is long-term in the form of increased durability, wind-resistance, fewer maintenance requirements, cost-saving energy efficiency, and inherent strength and structural integrity. In fact, over a metal roof’s lifespan (about 60 years), traditional shingles can cost just as much, if not more.3 Read more about the long-term value of metal panels here.

So while some buyers may be aiming to minimize their carbon footprint and live more simplistically, many people are looking to realize the economic benefits tiny homes offer. For them, the long-term durability and overall debt reduction thanks to lower purchase prices and taxes, reduced energy and maintenance costs, and more time living mortgage-free is driving them down this here-to-fore unusual path.

Want More Information on Tiny Homes?

In the next two blog articles in our Tiny Home series, we go into more detail about the advantages of metal panels for tiny homes. Metal Panels for Tiny Homes Part 1 will discuss mobility and customization; Part 2 will provide practical guidance on weather considerations, installation and maintenance.

For more information on metal panels for Tiny Homes, visit our website or contact your local sales representative.

 

References:

  1. thttp://www.nahbclassic.org/generic.aspx?sectionID=734&genericContentID=196904&channelID=311
  2. gov
  3. org/barndominium/

 

A Simple Solution to Metal Panel Condensation

Posted on by Tyler Roose

If you’ve ever gone outside before sunrise, you’ve likely noticed dew on the grass or on your car windows. This is condensation. While we may have learned the basics of this naturally occurring phenomenon in science class, we may need a quick refresher.

Condensation occurs when there’s more water vapor (the invisible, gaseous phase of water) than the air can hold. When the water vapor is cooled off or compressed to its saturation limit—at which point the vapor’s molecular density reaches its maximum threshold—it turns into liquid. Warm air can hold more moisture, but as it cools it reaches its saturation limit and water droplets form. While not a problem on the grass or your car (once you wipe the water away), condensation on metal panels CAN be a problem for your customers. The good news is there’s a simple solution.

ABC Drip Stop for metal panel condensationWhat causes condensation on metal panels?

When temperature and humidity conditions reach dew point, moisture can condense on the underside of metal roofing and potentially cause water damage to the inside of your customer’s building. Those drips from ceilings and surface moisture occur when warm air comes in contact with the cooler roofline or walls.

High interior humidity—a common cause of condensation in metal buildings—can result from heating and air conditioning systems, how the building is used, gas-fired heating components, improper construction techniques or even human respiration, as these all give off moisture vapor.

Effects of condensation on different types of panels:

If there is an abundance of condensation, water droplets will form and can cause damage. In metal buildings, there are a few possible consequences of trapped moisture in wall and roof systems:

  • Corrosion of metal components, even on surface-treated metal: When exposed to moisture, metal components can oxidize and weaken, decreasing the life of your customer’s building.
  • Degradation/ reduced effectiveness of the thermal performance of insulation
  • Mold or mildew growth, which can cause unpleasant odors and increase health risks, particularly for those with allergies or asthma
  • Insect infestations

Note: The probability of significant problems will depend on the location and usage of your customer’s building.

Controlling Condensation: What is the Solution?.

Traditionally, condensation is managed by insulating the metal roof so that the panel temperature never reaches the dew point. This is often accomplished using vinyl-backed fiberglass insulation to prevent humid air from coming into contact with the cooler metal roof (which may be at or below the dew point). If your customers are heating or cooling their building, adding insulation is certainly worth consideration. If they aren’t, there is another option to consider besides the installation of vinyl-backed insulation.

Your customers can consider installing Drip Stop, a patented condensation control membrane, to prevent damage from moisture. Drip Stop (manufactured by ABC) is a felt-like material with a rubber backer that can be applied to the back side of metal panels. The material literally traps and holds the moisture resulting from condensation. When conditions change, the ambient air temperature usually rises, thereby raising the dew point. The moisture is then released from the Drip Stop material back into the air in the form of normal humidity. Drip Stop can be applied to the back of metal coils (either Galvalume® Plus or painted) and then the metal can be roll-formed onto panels.

ABC Drip Stop for metal panel condensation

What are the benefits of this alternative condensation control method?

Drip Stop offers several advantages for your customers:

  • Durability: Drip Stop is a very tough, light gray anti-condensation felt that is not susceptible to ripping, tearing or deterioration unlike standard insulation and vapor barriers.
  • Low Maintenance: Drip Stop resists dirt and grime, is antimicrobial and is very easy to clean with a hose or pressure washer.
  • Corrosion Protection: The rubber backer on the material helps protect the back side of the panel from corrosion (although there is no protection at the panel’s cut edges).
  • Easy to Handle: There is no need to roll a vapor barrier over purlins and then seal with tape, which can reduce labor hours and cost. Additionally, the use of Drip Stop is not hindered by windy conditions.
  • Safety and Insurance: The material is approved for smoke generation and flame spread per UL® 723 for insurance specifications.
  • Acoustic Benefits: Drip Stop helps dampen sound from either inside or outside the building.
  • Versatility: Drip Stop is approved for use in residences, warehouses, industrial plants, sports arenas, schools, storage buildings, garages, animal confinement facilities and more.
  • Cost-Savings: Drip Stop is up to 25 percent less expensive as compared to traditional solutions.
  • Warranty-Backed: Drip Stop features a 20-year adhesion warranty to ensure longevity.

The Bottom Line:

There’s no need for the damaging effects of condensation to put a damper on your customer’s metal building project. With a simple solution like Drip Stop, you customers can protect their assets and prevent costly and time-consuming repairs.

For more information on Drip Stop and how it can be applied to ABC’s PBR, Imperial Rib® and Retro-R® panels, visit our website or contact your local sales representative.

Metal Roofing Gauges: What Are The Best Gauges For Metal Roofs?

Posted on by Tyler Roose

When your customers decide to use metal panels for their building project, they’ll need to make several decisions to choose the best panel. One of the first decisions they’ll make is what gauge or thickness they need. There are a variety of metal roof and wall panel profiles to choose from, and they are all available in several gauge thicknesses … but what does that really mean to your customers and how does that affect your business?

Metal Panel Gauges: Are you getting what you pay for?

Metal Panel Gauges Deciphered

U.S. manufacturers express the thickness of metal panels as their ‘gauge’, with 22-gauge being the thickest and 29-gauge the thinnest of traditionally-sold metal roof and wall panels. Each gauge represents a nominal decimal range. For example, a 26-gauge steel panel can range between 0.0179 and 0.0217 inches thick according to a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill resource.

This means that while a 26-gauge panel from one manufacturer could measure 0.027 in. thick, a 26-gauge panel from another manufacturer could measure only 0.0179 in., but both are sold as 26-gauge panels. Although those seem like small numbers, they represent a noticeable difference in panel stiffness and strength.

So how do you and your customers know if the metal panel manufacturer has used thinner sheeting and made up the difference with a coat of paint? When ordering inventory, you should look beyond the gauge number to the manufacturer’s specifications on metal thickness. This will give you peace of mind that you’re providing your customers with the gauge they’re paying for and the quality they need to get the job done.

 

Costs of 26-Gauge Panels vs. 29-Gauge Panels

Expect to pay more for thicker panels. The cost of a 26-gauge product will be about 15 percent higher than a 29-gauge with the same profile from the same manufacturer. While some people insist that the extra cost is always worth it, that may be misleading. Yes, thicker panels are stronger, but the importance of that added strength depends on the type of building construction as well as the customer’s priorities and location.

 

When To Choose a Thicker Metal Roofing Gauge

There are instances where thicker gauges always earn their keep. The most common of these is the post-frame building, or pole barn: an open-framed structure used for barns, garages and warehouses. Post-frames generally lack structural sheathing, so the roof and wall panels must span between the supporting trusses or purlins. Because 22-, 24- or 26-gauge sheeting is thicker, and will, therefore, remain more structurally sound over a longer span than a 29-gauge, the building needs fewer supports, which saves your customers money. For post-frame structures like this, it is important for your customers to consider the potential snow load the roof may need to support when choosing the metal panel gauge. Lighter-gauge (thicker) panels may save your customers from structural collapse in the winter months!

Lighter gauge (thicker) metal is also more forgiving of installation errors such as the over-tightening of screws, and it won’t be as likely to transfer bumps and waves in the sheathing. (The latter is more likely when re-paneling an older home.) Thicker trim pieces will also lay more accurately, so some homeowners and contractors opt for 29-gauge roof and wall panels with 26-gauge trim, a combination that is common and cost-effective.

 

When To Choose a Thinner Metal Roofing Gauge

Span isn’t always a concern in the residential market. Nearly all homes have a layer of plywood or oriented strand board sheathing covered by a weather-resistant barrier. The metal panels are affixed to the sheathing and serve no structural role in these instances; their job is to keep the sheathing dry. A quality 29-gauge panel is more than adequate for this—which is why it’s used on nearly 80 percent of homes with metal panels.

Despite this, thicker (lighter-gauge) panels can make sense for buildings in hail-prone areas, but not because of structural integrity. A 29-gauge metal panel can have the same impact-resistance rating from Underwriters’ Laboratory (UL) as a 26-gauge panel; the advantage of thicker metal panels in this case is that they are less prone to denting. If your customer lives in a place like Cheyenne, Wyoming (the hail capital of North America) and is concerned about long-term appearance, thicker panels may be the better option.

 

Let ABC Help You Choose the Right Metal Panel Gauge!

For more information about metal panel gauges, check out our panel selection chart or contact your local ABC representative today. Additionally, use our online ordering tool to find accurate pricing, create quotes and place orders for metal building products anytime, anywhere and from any device.  If you don’t already have an account, register for access today!

DISTRIBUTORS: Shop online at shop.abcmetalroofing.com!

What your customers need to know when considering a metal roof for their home

Posted on by Casey Walker

metal roofing for homes & houses

Your customers have a wide variety of options when choosing roofing materials for their home. One of those options is metal. When considering whether to use metal roof panels, there are a variety of factors any homeowner should consider.

Is Metal Roofing Right for Residential Use?

When considering metal roofing for residential applications, here are common questions your customers may have:

Will a metal roof match the style of their home?

With a wide variety of styles, profiles and colors, metal roofs compliment any residential design. Manufactured and produced to provide a higher quality option, metal roofs give your customers the beautiful appeal they want and the durability they need.

What is the life span of a metal roof?

According to a recent study by the Metal Construction Association (MCA), metal roofs are projected to last longer than the buildings they cover, up to 60 years or more. For customers considering a metal roof for their home, it’s a decision they’ll only need to make once.

How will metal roofing stand up to extreme weather?

Metal roofs are recognized for their durability and resistance to inclement weather with intense testing for high winds that can withstand gusts up to 140 miles per hour. (This is dependent upon the metal roofing profile selected. Your customers should contact the metal roofing manufacturer to assure they have the correct roof panel for their weatherability needs.) In addition to standing up to wind, metal roofs are known for withstanding decades of harsh weather like heavy snow, hailstorms and even fires. For homeowners who see a lot of heavy snowfall, metal roofs are an ideal option as they are able to shed snow fast and eliminate ice damming.

What are the environmental benefits of a metal roof?

Since up to 28 percent of the panel is recycled material, choosing a metal roof is beneficial for the environment. Metal roof are also nearly 100 percent recyclable. Additionally, they are energy efficient, absorbing up to 34 percent less heat than asphalt shingles. This keeps your customer’s home cool in the summer and warm in the winter—reducing their energy costs.

What does a metal roof cost in comparison to traditional roofing?

As a premium home product, your customers can expect their new metal roof to cost roughly twice as much as a traditional roof. However, there are many benefits that make this a cost-efficient solution for you customers including lower energy costs, moderate maintenance and increased resale value of your customer’s home. With metal roofing, your customers can be assured that they are investing in a long-term solution that more than makes up for the initial cost savings associated with traditional roofing materials. Read our blog post on metal roofing and shingles to learn more about pricing and benefits.

For more information about residential roof panels, contact your local ABC sales representative today.