Tag: limited warranty

Preserve and Protect: Tips for Storing Metal Panels

Posted on by Tyler Roose

The decision has been made to invest in metal roofing or siding for a project or business. Now it is incumbent upon job site professionals, business owners and/or contractors to ensure proper care is taken to preserve and protect the integrity and attractive appearance of your metal roof and wall panels from damage caused by moisture, corrosive chemicals or improper handling. To mitigate any potential issue, it is necessary to take a few simple precautions.

 

Material Receiving Checklist:

When the metal panels arrive, the first thing that should be done is to make sure the panels haven’t been damage while in transit. The metal panel manufacturer should have ensured that all materials were loaded and packed properly, so before anything is removed from the delivery truck, be sure to check that nothing looks damaged. If damage is found, the shipment carrier should be advised before they leave the delivery site and a notation should be made on the bill of lading. Every metal panel manufacturer will have specific instructions on how defects/damage should be notated and communicated to ensure proper and timely resolution of any issues. If there are no issues and everything looks good while on the truck, carefully unload the materials and check for the two most common issues: moisture and denting/bending:

  • Moisture: After unbundling, if there is moisture, the panels should be elevated, separated and dried in a secure are not exposed to wind or other elements.
  • Denting/Bending: If found, the carrier should be advised and the manufacturer should be made aware of the issue as quickly as possible. You should take inventory of the materials delivered as well as pictures of any damage a notation made on the bill of lading.
  • Additional Transit Abrasion: If found, the carrier should be advised and a notation made on the bill of lading. Take pictures of any damage as soon as you find it (don’t move the panels before taking pictures) and notify the manufacturer as soon as possible.

If you do have any issues with material, it is important to contact the material manufacturer or the place of purchase immediately to ensure the issue is addressed appropriately.

Protecting the Finish Before and During Installation:

On a jobsite, reasonable care should be taken when handling painted surfaces during unloading, unpacking, moving, handling and/or installation in order to protect the finish. Although the paint coating is tough and does provide impact resistance, dragging a panel across the surface of another panel will almost certainly mar the finish.

Storage Considerations:

Finally, when storing panels before sale, delivery to a buyer or jobsite, or while on the jobsite waiting for installation, you will want to take special care to store the panels in a proper manner to ensure the integrity of the material is protected. Here are some challenges, solutions and caveats for a number of common situations.

  • Prolonged Storage: This is NOT recommended when panels are bundled or in a damp environment. If conditions do not permit immediate erection, extra care must be taken to protect the material from damage caused by moisture. See the manufacturer’s installation manual for proper storage of materials as well as the section below for more details.
  • Bundled Sheets: Only store in a DRY place. Sheets should be unbanded and stood on end at a slight angle against an interior wall that is not exposed to wind in order to allow for good air circulation. If it is not possible to store sheets in an upright position, strapping bands should be broken and sheets should be blocked off the floor with one end slightly elevated.
  • Stacked Sheets: These should be completely protected from the elements while maintaining good airflow in order to prevent condensation.
  • Panel Coverings: A properly draped canvas tarpaulin that allows for adequate air flow is an example of a good protective cover. Do not use plastic as it causes sweating and condensation to occur.
  • Trim Storage: Do not store trim with strippable film in the sun for long periods of time as the ability to separate the film and its adhesive from the metal will become unmanageable.
  • Preventing Corrosion and Galvanic Reaction:
    • In order to prevent unwanted chemical reactions and corrosion, do not store the metal panels with materials made of dissimilar metals (lead, copper, etc.).
    • Strong acids (jet fuel exhaust, commercial cleaners/solvents, etc.) can degrade the finish and void the manufacturer’s warranty.

Conclusion:

Preserve and Protect—and also Inspect. Keeping these common-sense actions and precautions in mind, there is no reason that the unique aesthetic qualities of metal panels should ever be compromised on a jobsite. For more information on metal roof and wall panels and to learn more about how to protect them throughout their lifespan, contact your local ABC representative today.

The Benefits of Metal Panels for Barndominiums

Posted on by Casey Walker

Another alternative residential construction trend gaining momentum (like tiny homes) is the “barndominium” movement.  Barndominiums are typically metal buildings that have been transformed from industrial or agricultural structures into residences boasting affordability, low maintenance and energy efficiency. These structures stand apart from traditional and tiny homes in that they may literally have been a barn or warehouse that has been renovated to include several rooms, bathrooms, kitchens and other living areas. They often have open floor plans and can also be dual-purpose—combining a residence with areas used for other functions such as offices, garages, workshops, places of worship or meeting centers.

Barndomiums are highly customizable and can offer your customers all the creative possibilities of a traditional home. Like their standard tiny home counterparts, they deliver a low-maintenance lifestyle at a more affordable price. With a barndominium, you customers have the opportunity to live in a larger space and to incorporate larger workspaces into one inclusive property.

Generally, these high-functioning, low-cost structures include everything your customers would expect in a residential structure: energy-efficient windows, stained concrete floors, engineered concrete slabs, spray foam insulation, plumbing and even 9-foot ceilings. In addition to basic living space and plumbing, barndominiums can offer specialized add-on options such as air-conditioning units, hardwood floors and even hot tubs. What most barndominiums have in common is that they are usually made of metal.

Why Choose Metal Roof/ Siding for Barndominiums?

Developing a barndominium usually means your customers will be working with a steel post-frame building, which naturally lends itself to the use of metal as the primary material for the entire construction. Building with metal will mean less concern about roofing and foundation problems, as well as other issues commonly encountered with a traditionally-built home.

Metal roofing and siding solutions for barndominiums carry the same benefits as for tiny homes—or any other structure for that matter. Beyond color choice and aesthetics, metal panels are readily available and offer durability, wind resistance and recyclability—all contributing to overall cost-effectiveness and long-term sustainability. While there are other roofing materials that can be used, metal remains the go-to choice for your customers who are embarking on a barndominium project.

Bottom Line Benefit:

But isn’t metal roofing more expensive? The initial cost of a metal roof does exceed other materials, such as asphalt, slate or tile; it’s understandable that this could give your customers pause. Industry statistics estimate that the average cost per square foot for a metal roof is approximately $3.00, compared to asphalt shingles at $1.50. This up-front cost, however, is just the first part of a much larger story. Metal provides improved strength and durability, resulting in significantly lower maintenance and energy costs for your customers over time. Over a metal roof’s lifespan, in fact, shingles can cost just as much, if not more, contributing to the cost-efficiency of the design and construction.

Additionally, since metal barndominiums can be pre-engineered and prefabricated offsite, new construction costs are reduced throughout the entire process—from design through to construction. This means measurable savings in labor costs due to a streamlined, abbreviated construction timeline.

Expert Advice:

While barndominiums might be the wave of the future, there are still some practical factors your customers should keep in mind:

Compliance: For one, since barndominiums may have the unique function of serving as both a living and working space, it is important that your customers check (in advance!) local zoning regulations to ensure the property is zoned for a metal barndominium. Also, ensure the building materials chosen are suited to the specific climate and location.

Quality: Furthermore, and perhaps most important, they should make sure the manufacturer is reputable and that the materials used are efficient and of high-quality, which should equate to better warranties and longer life expectancy for the structure.

For more information on metal panels for barndominiums, including recommendations on panel types and gauges for barndominium applications, please contact an American Building Components representative near you.

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.

Maintaining, Cleaning & Repairing Metal Panels

Posted on by Tyler Roose

Understanding the maintenance requirements of your metal panels is essential to maximizing the longevity of your investment with the least amount of hassle. While metal panels have been engineered to provide decades of trouble-free protection, they can suffer damage from the build-up of debris as well as storm-related traumas like hail stones, falling branches and ice dams. To extend the lifespan and strength of metal panels, maintenance consists mostly of preventing and correcting these issues.

metal roofing maintenance tips

 The importance of regular inspections

Regular inspections are critical to identifying damaged panels and accumulated debris that can trap moisture, causing corrosion over time. To prevent this, a visual inspection should be performed in the spring and the fall of each year, as well as after major weather events to identify issues. Take a walk around the structure and look for leaves, branches and other debris piled up on the roof, including in valleys, gutters and downspouts, as well as behind chimneys and/or other protrusions. While you can perform this type of inspection yourself, please keep in mind that metal panels—particularly metal roofs—should be professionally inspected every four to five years depending on your geographic location. If you live in a coastal or humid area more prone to corrosion and rust, professional inspections should be done more frequently to prevent the rust from spreading and causing structural damage to the panels.

In addition to debris, keep an eye out for scratched or dented areas, as well as for loose screws and seams that look like they are separating. (If you can’t make out the details from the ground, try using a pair of binoculars.). Use the manufacturer’s recommended touch-up paint to correct scratches as they can quickly degrade the surface protection and jeopardize the longevity of metal panels. If the panels have separating seams or holes, first check to see if the repair is partly or fully covered by your warranty. Unless you are experienced in metal roof repair and possess a thorough knowledge of the products and techniques that can be used without voiding the warranty, it is recommended that you engage a metal panel repair specialist to make the repairs. If you decide to undertake the work yourself, it is also important to remember that these fixes are, at best, temporary and should be addressed by a professional recommended by the metal panel manufacturer.

Cleaning metal panels

Keeping metal panels clean is one of the best ways to ensure they last as long as possible. When cleaning metal roofs and walls, using a non-pressure cleaning method with detergents recommended by the metal panel manufacturer is ideal. It is not advisable to use metal tools such as rakes to remove debris. This is likely to scratch the paint, reducing the panels protection from the elements and other damaging factors. Using a leaf blower to remove debris is a common choice, but a long-handled push-broom or a telescoping pole with a window cleaning brush will also do the job. Ideally, the tool should be one that lets you do the removal from the ground, but if you absolutely must walk on the roof then only step on the flat areas. If there are areas you can’t access yourself—particularly slanted areas that have been made slippery with cleaning solutions—hiring a professional service to do this once or twice a year is the safest option.

To reduce the chance of further damage and keep your panels cleaner over longer periods of time, trim tree branches as far back from the building as possible. This is especially important for large, unhealthy branches that could break off during high winds and cause damage.

Proper snow removal

There are—of course—considerations that must be made for metal buildings located in colder climates. After a winter storm, it’s a good idea to remove standing snow from the roof. This is doubly important on older homes where poor attic insulation can lead to ice dams. An ice dam forms when heat escaping from inside the attic warms the roof and melts the bottom layer of snow. The snowmelt then re-freezes, creating a dam that traps water which can work its way into seams between panels and around flashings.

Warranty considerations

It’s always smart to reference the metal panel manufacturer’s warranty to be sure you don’t use any products or tools that will void your warranty. They should also provide instructions and advice specific to the panels and application(s) you’ve selected to ensure you get the most out of their products with the least hassle.

For more information on metal panels, check out ABC’s FAQ page. For more on our metal panels and accessories, please visit our product pages or contact your local representative today.

Your Guide to Steel-Curtain Roll-Up Doors

Posted on by Jessica Taylor

No building is complete without a door. In this blog, we investigate steel-curtain roll-up doors and how they deliver form and function across a wide variety of uses.

What are Steel-Curtain Roll-Up Doors?

You see them everywhere. They’re used at your local schools, recreation and retail centers, and government, medical and office buildings. They provide access and security for storage units whether applied in backyard sheds, residential garages or commercial storage facilities. And, they are also an integral part of agricultural structures, transit stations, freight buildings and warehouses.

Made of a curtain (sheet) of durable, secure steel and designed to provide quick, easy access to both commercial and residential buildings, these doors open by traveling vertically, but gather into a roll at the top of the door instead of sliding along tracks. And while they can be used in a myriad of applications, with so many door options available in the marketplace today, why are so many people opting for steel curtain roll-up doors?


Why Steel Roll-Up Doors?

Long-term Value:
Roll-up doors made of steel are generally less expense to purchase initially and they save money over the course of their lifespan. Not only do they last longer, but they also require fewer, less expensive repairs and are more durable than wood, aluminum or fiberglass products—particularly in challenging environments. In addition, steel is more energy-efficient, saving on heating and electricity costs throughout the year.

Security:
Exterior doors are inherently the most vulnerable points of many buildings, so reducing the likelihood of theft, fire, vandalism and contamination is the best way to keep your property secure. More impenetrable than doors made from wood, fiberglass or aluminum, steel doors with standard stainless steel latches are better able to protect against unwanted entry, fire, noise, vandalism and contamination from exterior elements, providing reliable security and peace-of-mind.

Durability:
Steel is a resilient material manufactured to protect against extreme weather conditions and harsh usage environments. Unlike doors made from other materials, steel roll-up doors can endure the wear and tear of heavy traffic usage and can be outfitted with rust-resistant components including spring coatings and bottom bars to further extend their longevity.

Longevity:
While wood doors are susceptible to warping and rotting, aluminum doors can quickly become dented and fiberglass can easily crack—all of which require replacement—with proper installation and maintenance, metal doors can last 30 years or longer. The high-quality primers and paint coatings used on steel doors protect against chipping and scratching, keeping the doors looking better longer.

Easy Maintenance:
Steel roll-up doors require little-to-no maintenance and are easily replaceable—making them one of the most reliable, cost-effective options in the industry. ABC’s doors are unique in that they feature gear-driven tensioning brackets that ensure safe and easy adjustments that can be made on site and with minimal down time.

Appearance:
Steel roll-up doors are available in a wide variety of sizes, styles and colors. In addition, manufacturing improvements and advances in coating and paint products enables customization to suit even the most unique aesthetic requirements.

Space-Savings:
Because roll-up doors open vertically and are gathered into a roll instead of sliding along tracks, they take up little overhead space while enabling convenient and easy access.


How to Select the Right Steel Roll-Up Door:

Whether you are replacing doors on an existing building or sourcing them for a new project, be sure to consider the below factors before purchasing:

Use:
The door you need will depend on its intended use. Light-duty doors are manufactured to meet the specific and unique demands of small structures, portable buildings or recreational facilities while heavy-duty doors meet the needs of more demanding environments like commercial freight and utility buildings, warehouses and agricultural facilities.

Environment:
It is vital to consider your geography when selecting steel roll-up doors. If your project is located in a region susceptible to high winds from weather events including hurricanes, tropical storms and tornadoes, a wind-rated door tested in accordance with International Building Codes and that complies with your insurance requirements should be considered. Check both local and national building codes to understand if you need wind-certified doors, which can dramatically reduce maintenance and replacement costs as well as minimize downtime.

Warranties:
Be sure that you are familiar with and fully understand the warranty options available on the products purchased. It is common for doors and door components to be covered by a product warranty, while the coil coatings and paint are warranted under a second that should include considerations for film integrity as well as both chalk and fade.

To learn about ABC’s roll-up door solutions, visit our Roll-Up Doors product page or contact your local sales representative.

Galvalume® vs. Galvanized Metal Roofing

Posted on by Jessica Taylor

Galvalume® vs. Galvanized Metal Roofing

Selecting metal panels made from high-quality materials is essential to the longevity and success of your customer’s metal roofing system—from the steel sheets to the fasteners. Although the quality of the paint system applied to metal roofing panels provides an essential level of protection (as discussed in our recent ‘Decoding Your Warranty’ blog series), not to be overlooked is the coating used on metal roofing panels. Two coatings are commonly used on steel sheeting in the metal panel industry today: Galvalume® and Galvanized. Both products are manufactured to adhere to carbon sheeting and provide a barrier that resists corrosion. Additionally, they enhance long-term water-tightness and durability, ensuring resilience through damaging weather conditions. But what exactly are the differences between Galvalume® and Galvanized?

What is Galvalume® metal?

Introduced into the construction marketplace by Bethlehem Steel in 1972 and now widely available around the world, Galvalume® is carbon steel sheeting coated with aluminum-zinc alloy by a continuous hot-dip process. Composed of 55 percent aluminum and approximately 45 percent zinc, this coating combines the best properties of both metals. It has the corrosion resistance, high temperature oxidation resistance and heat reflectivity typical of aluminum coatings, with the formability and galvanic protection of cut edges characteristic of zinc coatings. This combination makes it ideal for most types of roofing and siding. In addition, the coating also contains a small but significant amount of silicon in the alloy—not to enhance the corrosion performance, but to ensure optimal coating adhesion to the steel substrate when roll-formed, drawn or bent during fabrication.

 What is Galvanized metal?

Galvanized Sheet is carbon steel sheet coated with zinc on two sides by a continuous hot-dip process. This method tightly adheres the coating to the steel with an iron-zinc alloy bonding layer formed by a diffusion process while the heated steel strip is in contact with the molten zinc.

What is the difference between Galvalume® & Galvanized roofing?

While both products were developed to essentially sacrifice themselves to protect the steel sheeting they coat, the above exposure comparison shows that Galvalume® performs (up to nine times) better in fighting corrosion as compared to Galvanized coating. While Galvalume® can initially show signs of corrosion faster than Galvanized, it has a sacrificial property that will prevent the corrosion from growing whereas once corrosion has started on a Galvanized panel, it can continue to corrode until panel integrity is lost. According to a study released by the Metal Construction and Zinc Aluminum Coaters associations, the longevity of a low-slope unpainted Galvalume® standing-seam roof is 60 years  (See the full report.)  Additionally, primer and paint adhere better to Galvalume®-coated panels and they carry a 20-year limited warranty while galvanized panels do not, making them a smarter long-term investment for your customers’ homes, agricultural buildings or commercial properties.

Important Facts About Galvalume®

  • Galvalume® should not come in direct contact with: standing water, dissimilar metals (copper, lead, iron), harsh chemicals, graphite pencil, masonry products or treated lumber.
  • Proper roof inspections and maintenance is still required, as with any other roof system.

Its versatility, ease of use, aesthetic appeal and long-term, service life-extending performance makes Galvalume-coated steel roof panels the most economical and sustainable coating option for your customers’ new and retrofit applications. To learn more about Galvalume®, please visit  http://www.galvalume.com/. To view ABC’s Galvalume® Plus products, which are easy to form and install safely due to the thin, clear acrylic coating that allows them to be roll-formed dry without vanishing oil, please see our color resources and Galvalume® warranty information.

Decoding Your Warranty: Paint Chalking

Posted on by Heather Hollis

The third and final element of our “Decoding Your Warranty” blog series covers paint chalking. As with fading, chalking is an expected occurrence with any paint system that is subjected to outdoor exposure, and while it may be preferable to other issues such as cracking or peeling, it is still important to the metal roofing industry and its customers. As a result, similar questions should be asked about how this is addressed in paint system warranties to ensure chalking isn’t the cause of premature damage to your metal roof system.

What is paint chalking?

Also referred to as “powdering”, chalking happens when the resin (binder) of the paint system is compromised. The resin is the substance that holds the paint pigment together. It also ensures the color is evenly distributed and provides glossiness, durability and flexibility. In addition, resin has the very important job of adhering the pigment to the metal surface it’s applied to and protecting the finish against damage.

When the resin at the surface of the paint finish deteriorates, most often as a result of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, the embedded pigment particles lose their adhesion to the paint film (resulting in color fading) and the resin particles take on a white (chalky) appearance that is easy to wipe off of the surface. In addition, chalking can erode the film resulting in a loss of substrate protection and run down onto the underlying structure, further degrading the appearance of your structure.

How can you protect against paint chalking?

Climates that are exposed to more intense UV rays for longer periods of time will experience chalking sooner as the environment plays a big role in how painted metal will perform. While you may not be able to control how much UV or moisture exposure your roof gets, you can choose a paint system that is not over-thinned or over-spread and that uses high quality components. ABC’s Signature® 200 system incorporates a 30 percent SMP Resin—one of the strongest in the marketplace—to help reduce the amount of chalking experienced.

Similar to the fading section of the warranty, paint system warranties allow for an acceptable amount of chalking. Chalking is measured in accordance with the standard procedures as defined by the “Standard Methods of Evaluating Degree of Chalking of Exterior Paints”, ASTM D4214. ABC guarantees the level of chalk on vertical panel applications will not chalk in excess of a numerical rating of eight (the higher the numerical rating, the better) for 30 years for our Premium paint system colors and 25 years for our Select40 paint system colors. For non-vertical panel applications, ABC guarantees a rating of 6 for 30 years for our Premium paint system and 25 years for our Select40 paint system. Consumers should be aware of these numbers, and expect them to be expressed in sample warranties.

Check out ABC’s metal color resources and warranty information to learn more!

 

Missed parts one and two of the “Decoding Your Warranty” blog series? Start reading now!

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