Tag: metal

Ordering Metal Roof & Wall Trim Online

Posted on by Tyler Roose

Metal roof and wall trim is used to seal joints and edges to keep moisture out while providing a seamless transition between panels to create a polished look. With our online ordering tool, you can browse our selection and order the trim your customers need from anywhere at any time. Learn more about ordering trim online!

Online Trim Options

Our metal roofing and wall trim is available in all standard colors to match our panels. The trim style and profile you select should depend on the panel profile used on your building project. When ordering through the ecommerce platform, there are four main trim categories to choose from: 

  • Concealed Fastener Trim – used with our SL-16 Panel
  • Exposed Fastener Trim – used with multiple profiles, such as Imperial Rib and PBR
  • Standing Seam Trim – used with LokSeam
  • Custom Trim – used in a variety of applications

All ecommerce manuals are organized based on the panel groupings, indicating the correct type of trim for each panel. Choosing the proper trim is important because the following variables are different for each panel profile: 

  • Rib Heights
  • Rib Spacing
  • Installation Methods
  • Attachment Methods

Ordering Custom Trim

ABC Metal Roofing makes it easy to order custom trim to meet your specific needs. Just like our standard trims, special trim is available in all of our standard colors, with length options up to 20 feet.  ABC also sells flat sheets and coil stock, if you prefer to fabricate your own trim items. Learn more about how to order:


How to Draw Trim

When drawing your trim, keep these points in mind:

  • All dimensions must be noted in inches with a tolerance of 1/16 of an inch
  • Custom trim can be produced in lengths of up to 20ft.
  • Color side must always be noted
  • Label all degrees of bend
  • Trim ends can be hemmed (the standard is ½”)
  • Label each trim with a piecemark of your choosing to help identify the special trim throughout order and production process

Special trim drawings must be submitted online before the order can be completed. Each customer has the option to upload their own saved document or download and edit a standard template.


Pricing

All custom trims are priced based on the total square footage of each part. Each gauge and color system has a unique cost per square foot. Bends are priced at $0.80 each while hems are $1.60 each.

If you’re planning to reorder the same trim, we can work with you to set up a unique part number to make it easier to reorder.


Placing Your Order

Browse our selection of trim to find the best fit for your customer’s project. Visit our online ordering tool to place your order today! Not a registered user?  Register for an account to access this convenient tool. 

What Makes ABC Stand Out

Posted on by Kelly Huntsman

Since the establishment of American Building Components in 1908, we’ve delivered high quality products and reliable service in order to help you grow your distribution business. We’re committed to on-time delivery and honest communication from order placement to fulfillment. Learn more about what makes ABC a leading manufacturer of metal building products.

National Presence

ABC is dedicated to providing exceptional service to distributors across the country. With our current footprint, we’re able to distribute materials to 45 states across the country. Our manufacturing plants are conveniently located along truck routes, offering customers the flexibility to order smaller quantities as needed. This also helps to reduce shipping costs and cut fulfillment times.

Breadth of Products

At ABC, we offer a broad selection of products that are designed for a variety of industries including agricultural, commercial, residential and post-frame. This makes us a one-stop shop to meet the needs of all of your customers.

We offer a broad selection of panels, allowing you to meet the functional and aesthetic preferences of your customers. On the residential side, choose from a variety of profiles in addition to the popular Imperial Rib style. We also offer many more profiles that are unique to different parts of the country.

Unparalleled Expertise

With over 100 years of experience, we offer innovative solutions backed by knowledgeable staff. Our customers benefit from the combined insight and expertise of our team as we continue to proactively seek out ways to improve their experiences.

Online Ordering

Enjoy the convenience of our online ordering tool, designed to allow our authorized dealers and distributors to browse our selection of metal building components. This platform allows you to order exactly what you need for your customers from anywhere at any time. Create quotes easily and receive accurate pricing. It offers several payment options and shipping methods to fit your needs. It’s also able to process custom orders for trim and other products.

At ABC, we’re dedicated to providing trusted quality paired with reliable service. Browse our products or reach out to your local sales representative to learn why ABC is a leading national manufacturer of high-quality building products.

How To Cut Metal Panels

Posted on by Tyler Roose

Even with an accurate materials list, cutting metal roof and wall panels on-site is often a necessary part of the installation process. To avoid damaging your metal panels, it’s important to use the correct tools and overall best practices. Learn more about how to cut metal panels.




Safety Precautions

Before cutting your metal panels, take appropriate safety precautions to avoid getting hurt. Use gloves to protect your hands from being cut by the sharp metal panel edges. If metal filings fall on the surface of your metal panel, try to blow them off instead of touching them with your hands. Put on safety goggles to protect your eyes from airborne metal filings.

Tools

To avoid damaging the panels or their coating, it’s important to use proper tools. Snips are generally recommended for trim work while shears and nibblers are used for the panels themselves. Some of the best tools to use include:


● Aviation Snips: Good choice for small cuts, including cuts near pipe penetrations.
● Electric Shears: Ideal for lengthier cuts along steel.
● Mechanical Shears: Add-on tool that fits into an impact or screw gun. Ideal for use on standing seam panels at hips and valleys.
● Nibblers: Also known as turbo shears, they’re ideal for cutting openings for windows and doors.

Skill saws can also be used if this is the only resource available. Be sure to use a blade that is specifically designed for metal panels. Turn the panel upside down so that the painted side is facing the ground to make sure filings don’t stick to the paint coating.

Avoid Using:
● Torches
● Cut-Off Saws
● Reciprocating Saws
● Hacksaws
● Grinders

These tools heat up the metal panel and can melt or damage the edge that was cut. They can also cause metal filings to go airborne, creating a safety hazard. If those metal filings stick to the panel’s painted coating, they can cause surface rust.



Cutting Metal Panels

Marking the Panels

Before cutting your panels, be sure to measure and mark the cuts you’re planning to make. To mark your panels, lay them down flat with the painted side down. Make sure the panel is stable by clipping the panel in with c-clamps.

Do not mark on the finished side of the panel to avoid marring the visible surface. Avoid using a pencil with graphite lead as this is a dissimilar metal and could cause your metal panel to corrode. Instead, use a chalk line or magic marker. Use a straightedge or combination square to draw a straight line.

Cutting Technique

Before making a cut, be sure to line up the snip blade with the marking. Keep the blade perpendicular to the metal sheet you’re cutting. Work slowly and make steady and consistent cuts for smoother lines. Keep your cuts short to avoid jagged edges. For quicker, straighter cuts, use nibblers or mechanical shears.



Improve Efficiency by Planning Ahead

Cutting metal panels and trim in the field is easily one of the most time-consuming parts of the installation process. To avoid extra cutting in the field, it’s important to create an accurate materials list upfront. To do this, plan out how your panels will cover the roof or wall areas. Make sure the coverage width and count of the panels ordered is sufficient to cover the area you are installing. Consider which side of the building you will start with and how the ends of the wall or roof will be finished. It is possible that you may be able to avoid splitting a panel lengthwise if you do proper calculations in advance. Additionally, some panels are only able to be installed in one direction. Next, review the standard trim details such as valleys, hips, and around doors and windows. Be sure you have appropriate panels to cover these areas as well, and order to the closest pre-cut length available.

If you have any additional questions about how to cut metal panels in the field, contact your local ABC Sales Representative.

Tips for Installing Metal Roofing Accessories

Posted on by Tyler Roose

A properly-installed metal roof is expected to last 60 years or longer. However, incorrectly-installed roofing accessories can cause serious damage and decrease the life of your metal roof. The key to a long-lasting metal roof is correctly selecting and installing metal roofing accessories.

Considerations

When selecting and installing metal roofing accessories, it’s important to consider several factors.

Type of Construction– Consider the roofing substrate when selecting accessories. The fasteners used for installation will vary depending on the material that the panels and trim are attached to, such as framing or plywood sheeting.

Geometry of the Roof– When examining the geometry of the roof, look for symmetry and protrusions. If the roof has a chimney, skylight or other feature, flashing will be necessary to prevent leaks.

Roof Pitch & Slope– Since each panel profile channels water differently, it’s important to consider the slope and pitch of your roof when selecting metal roof panels. The recommended trim and accessories will depend on the panel profile selection.

Next, you can consider the aesthetic appeal of the available panel profiles and accessories for your building project.

Selecting Metal Roofing Accessories

Once you’ve examined your roof and selected the appropriate panel profile, you can choose metal roofing accessories to go with it. Each panel series has specific installation resources with a product checklist that outlines the standard accessories that should be used.

Installing Metal Roofing Accessories

When installing metal roofing accessories, it’s important to use caution when penetrating the roofing panels and select compatible materials. In most cases, the roofing contractor will be responsible for proper installation. All penetrations should be added to the project specifications and approved ahead of time by the roofing contractor.

Our manuals recommend detailed accessory installation instructions for each of the roof conditions mentioned above down to the trim, sealant and fasteners. For the longevity of your metal roof, it’s crucial to follow the standard details for your roofing conditions. Make sure to use the equipment offered by your manufacturer to preserve the weathertightness warranty.

Here are some things to avoid when installing metal roofing accessories:

  • Using dissimilar materials – Accessories made of dissimilar materials such as lead, copper and graphite can cause damaging reactions and corrosion.
  • Penetrating the roof before coordinating with the roofing contractor – To maintain the weathertightness warranty, all pipe penetrations should be coordinated with the roofing contractor.
  • Choosing the wrong clip for your insulation thickness – There are several different clip systems available that vary depending on the roof substrate.
  • Using an abrasive saw – Make sure to use the recommended tools. Using an abrasive saw could damage the cut edge, causing premature corrosion to the panel or trim, and likely damaging the paint system. This will void any finish warranty and create a potential spot for the roof system to leak. Instead, use snips or hand shears.

At ABC, we offer color matching fasteners, trim and other accessories to make your metal roofing project run smoothly. Have a question about installing metal roofing accessories? Reach out to your local ABC representative.

Benefits of Metal Panels for Agricultural Buildings

Posted on by Joe Sample

Metal panels are ideal for agricultural buildings, including those that house livestock, such as cattle, hogs and poultry. They’re durable and offer flexibility in design so you can create an agricultural building that is functional and aesthetically pleasing. Read below to learn more about the benefits of choosing metal panels and special considerations for animal confinement.

Why do so many agricultural buildings use metal panels?

  • Durability: Metal panels are designed for durability. They can withstand high winds and heavy snowfall. They’re also hail resistant, featuring a class 4 rating. Unlike wood, metal panels are resistant to damage from termites and other insects. Metal is also noncombustible.
  • Longevity: Metal panels last three to four times longer—up to 60 years. Unlike corrugated fiberglass panels, metal doesn’t get brittle after years in the sun.
  • Cost Savings: Metal is a much more cost-effective material than wood because it doesn’t need to be replaced as often. The durable design of metal panels also saves money on maintenance.
  • Sustainability: Our metal panels are made from recycled materials. They’re also 100% recyclable at the end of your building’s life. Choose from a variety of cool roofing colors that are designed to reflect the sun’s heat instead of absorbing it into your agricultural building.
  • Ease of Installation: Metal panels can be cut to the nearest 1/4 of an inch for easy installation. Most panels offer three feet of coverage which is more time-efficient than pounding out shingles.
  • Design Flexibility: There are a variety of options to choose from when it comes to metal panels. We offer a broad selection of styles, profiles, colors and finishes.

The common panel profile used for this application is Imperial Rib® . It’s designed for durability with two minor ribs which give it strength. It’s also formed with a round top which pushes away moisture.

Metal Panels for Livestock Shelters

Animal confinement imposes specific challenges on panels that aren’t required considerations for residential or commercial uses.

When considering metal panels for a barn or other animal enclosure, here is what you should keep in mind.

What makes animal housing such a challenge?

Animal waste has high ammonia content that can start to corrode metal in as little as five years. With roofs, this corrosion is fueled by airborne fumes; on walls, the culprit is manure or dirt lying against the panels for extended periods. You can minimize both problems with good ventilation and regular maintenance, including keeping the panels clean and immediately repairing any damage.

Important Considerations

  • Panel Coatings: More people are opting for Galvalume panels for their livestock housing projects than ever before. And while Galvanized panels perform better than Galvalume in high-ammonia environments such as hog confinement, Galvanized panels are susceptible to white rust (chalking) if exposed to water prior to installation, which is not an issue with Galvalume panels.

For this reason, many are pairing Galvalume panels with a protective, self-adhesive moisture barrier like ABC’s Drip Stop product, which is applied to the panel’s interior before it is roll-formed. This membrane absorbs moisture when relative humidity (RH) is high, and then releases it back into the atmosphere when the RH falls, thereby preventing the damaging moisture from directly touching the panels. For hog or cattle barns, where dirt and manure tend to pile up against walls, another protective option is to install a polycarbonate panel on the inside of the metal wall panel to reduce contact, making the metal panels easier to keep clean.

No matter which panel you choose, be sure you understand how the coating is measured to that you optimize the durability and long-term corrosion resistance. The best options are the G90 Galvanized or AZ55 Galvalume panels, which have been compared in this article.

  • Panel Thickness: The 29-gauge panel is most commonly used for animal confinement, but as mentioned in this article on metal panel gauges, nominal 29-gauge panels come in a range of actual thicknesses. For best results, look for one that’s at least .015 inches thick.
  • Design: The design of animal confinement structures is important and can have major impacts on the viability of the building. Dropped ceilings with sophisticated ventilation systems are said to increase efficiency and satisfy environmental run-off inspections, therefore maximizing return on investment. These structures can also be designed to help eliminate ammonia fumes and corrosion- common occurrences in buildings with poor air flow.
  • Warranty: As with any purchase, it’s important to check the warranty exclusions when selecting any kind of panel for your projects. For instance, the warranty on a Galvalume panel may not apply when it’s subjected to animal waste or other corrosives. Again, good ventilation and regular maintenance will minimize the chance of problems.

For more information on ABC’s agricultural products, visit our website or contact your local representative today.

How To Prepare for Metal Roof Installation

Posted on by Pat Thostenson

Metal Roofing Installation Prep

If you’re looking to replace your current roof, metal roofing is a durable, low-maintenance alternative to asphalt shingles. To make the most of your investment, it’s important to plan ahead for the metal roof installation process. Learn about the steps that you and your contractor should take to prepare for metal roofing installation.

Consider Metal Roofing Options: Profiles, Gauge, Color, Etc.

Consult with a local distributor to select metal roofing materials for your building project. They’ll be able to provide resources such as product information, color charts, technical literature and product samples.

There are several factors to consider when selecting metal roofing panels. The most important consideration is the roof pitch. Make sure to choose a metal panel profile that will perform best with the pitch of your roof in order to keep it weathertight. Once you’ve selected the panel style, choose from a variety of profiles and colors depending on your budget and aesthetic preferences.

For residential applications, the Imperial Rib® panel, an exposed fastener panel, offers rustic charm. The SL-16® panel, a concealed fastener panel, provides a clean, sleek aesthetic.

Choose a Contractor

Next, you’ll need to select a contractor. During this process, it’s important to choose a contractor that has experience installing metal roofing. In many cases, your local distributor can provide references to narrow down your search.

Building Owner Prep Work

Although the contractor will be responsible for most of the heavy lifting, there are a few things you should do to prepare for metal roof panel installation.

Clear the Space

Make sure to clear the space around your home or building to prepare an adequate workspace for your contractor. For commercial properties, you may want to set up barriers to keep your customers safe. For residential buildings, you should remove items from the yard, patio, deck or balcony to keep them from being damaged. Consider protecting landscaping that’s in close proximity to the building by covering it with a tarp.

Alert Your Neighbors

As a courtesy to your neighbors, consider warning them about the loud noises that will likely occur during the metal roofing installation process.

Make Arrangements

Make arrangements for any individuals that may be disturbed by the noise. For residential buildings, you should also make arrangements for pets that may need to go outside during the day.

Contractor Prep Work

Measure the Roof & Create a Materials List

Once you’ve hired a contractor, they’ll begin their prep work by measuring the roof to create a materials list and determine order quantities. This list should contain all of the necessary materials including:

  • Panels
  • Trim (Edging)
  • Screws
  • Closure Strips/Closures
  • Venting Material
  • Other Roofing Accessories

Before the materials list is finalized, you should discuss with your contractor whether or not to vent the ridge cap. In residential situations, this is necessary to circulate air throughout the house.

Order Materials

In most cases, your contractor will be responsible for ordering the roofing materials through the local distributor. Before the order is placed, consider which warranty option is best for you. While a 40-year warranty is the most common choice, some of the lighter gauge materials offer a 20-year warranty option.

Inspect Material

Once the roofing materials are delivered, it’s important to inspect them. Your contractor should do the following:

  • Check the bill of lading to make sure that all materials have been delivered
  • Check the materials for damage including dents and scratched paint
  • If something is wrong with the order, contact the distributor to order replacement materials
Remove Old Roofing and Repair Damage

Remove the existing roofing down to the decking. After the existing roofing materials have been removed, the installer should check for bad decking and make any necessary repairs. All ice and water shields and underlayment should be removed and replaced as well.

Metal Roofing Installation

After all of the prep work is completed, the metal roof installation process can begin. During the installation process, it’s important to communicate with the main contact for your project about any concerns you may have. Once the installation process has been completed, make sure the work is done to your liking. Be sure to finalize payment and warranty information as well.

To learn more about the best practices for metal roof installation, contact your local ABC representative.

How Insulated Metal Panels Enhance Building Design and Performance

Posted on by Tyler Roose

Insulated metal panels can be a high-performing, aesthetically-pleasing solution for your customers’ building projects—particularly when the weather is colder. These lightweight panels feature an insulating foam core with a metal skin face and offer superior performance and design flexibility. This makes them the ideal choice for many building projects in many industries.

ABC Blog: How Insulated Metal Panels Help Enhance Building Design and Performance

Enhanced Design Using Insulated Metal Panels

In addition to their functional responsibilities, Insulated Metal Panels also need to be aesthetically pleasing. Available in a variety of colors and profile shapes, they help meet the varying design requirements of your customers’ projects. Insulated metal panel finishes resembling traditional construction materials such as precast concrete, stucco, masonry and others are also available. This provides more customization and integration options for customers.

Flexibility and Code-Compliance

Insulated metal panels easily integrate with other building materials such as concrete tilt-up, stucco, brick, single-skin metal panels, glazing and exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS). They also require less space for insulation to comply with energy codes as compared to other insulating methods. This helps to maximize enclosed space within your customers’ buildings.

Additionally, the use of insulated partition panels gives customers the flexibility to decide how much of their building they want to insulate. These interior panels can help section off portions of buildings that require temperature regulation like offices and storage space. Insulated partition panels can span floor to ceiling up to 20 ft., so in most cases no additional framing is needed for installation.

Strength and Savings

The strength of Insulated Metal Panels allows for greater spanning and load-bearing capabilities as compared to single-skin alternatives. With fewer required supports, these panels easily integrate into building designs without added cost.

And, of course, the advanced polyurethane core of Insulated Metal Panels can help reduce heating and cooling costs. This energy efficiency translates into savings for building owners across the life of the panels.

Superior Performance and Cost Savings of Insulated Metal Panels

Offering superior strength and durability across their lifecycle, Insulated Metal Panels are designed as a long-term building solution. Their consistent, all-in-one air and water barrier design makes them simple to install, which can expedite the project build and minimize schedule delays.

Minimal Maintenance Requirements

Needing minimal maintenance, Insulated Metal Panels help building owners save time and money, while delivering peace of mind their strength affords. Compared to some traditional materials, insulated metal panels are also easy to repair and replace. This reduces building material costs over time while also allowing flexibility for building expansion and remodeling down the line.

Putting it All Together

Superior design and performance make Insulated Metal Panels an efficient, effective, all-in-one solution for insulating metal buildings. Contact your local ABC sales representative today to learn more.

ABC Blog: Learn More About our Insulated Metal Panels!

 

Cleaning Metal Panels Part 2: Quick Tips to Consider

Posted on by Joe Sample

In a recent blog post, we reviewed how regularly cleaning metal panels helps maintain their integrity and aesthetics. Now that you know the importance of this activity, we’re sharing some tips for cleaning metal panels to consider.

ABC Blog: Cleaning Metal Panels Part 2: Quick Tips to Consider

LEVELS OF CLEANING METAL PANELS:

These tips for cleaning metal panels are based on general circumstances and get progressively more detailed for tougher jobs. They should not supersede and are not a replacement of the any metal panel manufacturer’s instructions or warranty requirements, including those provided by American Building Components.

Light Cleaning: 

For simple cleaning, water and mild detergent is often sufficient. However, never use bleach, as it can change the finish color or interact disastrously with certain metals.

Moderate Cleaning: 

For dirt or other deposits that can’t be removed with water alone and require a more complete cleaning, a solution of hot or cold water mixed with detergent is appropriate. An ideal solution is the mixture of 95 percent water with 5 percent of a mild, commonly-used, commercial (non-industrial, non-bleach) dish or laundry detergent added. Diluting the detergent with the water helps ensure the detergent isn’t too strong and doesn’t negatively affect the painted metal surface. Common cleaners for this type of cleaning can include:

  • Mild laundry detergent
  • Car wash soap
  • Mild dish soap
  • Cold or hot commercial/industrial detergents
Deep Cleaning:

For non-water-soluble residue such as tar, tree sap, grease, oil and adhesives, a solvent or alcohol-based cleaning solution may be required. In this case—since most organic solvents are flammable and/or toxic—handle these according to the cleaner and manufacturer instructions.

Generally, it’s advisable to keep them away from open flames, sparks and electrical motors. Use adequate ventilation, protective clothing and goggles, and—of course—read the manufacturer’s Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for any solvent used for any other specific safety details.

Common cleaners for this type of non-water-soluble cleaning often include:

  • Alcohols:
    • Denatured alcohol (ethanol)
    • Isopropyl (rubbing alcohol)
  • Solvents:
    • VM&P Naptha
    • Mineral Spirits
    • Kerosene
    • Turpentine (wood/gum spirits)

WHAT TO AVOID WHEN CLEANING METAL PANELS:

It’s important to avoid using products and tools not recommended by the panel manufacturer that will scrape or grind down the surface coating and leave scratches or other finish damage when cleaning metal panels. This can eventually wear down the finish and leave panels vulnerable to corrosion. Likewise, any misuse or abuse of acceptable cleaning agents will likely automatically void any manufacturer’s warranty for the affected surfaces.

Regardless of the level of cleaning that needs to be done, there are some products and tools that are likely never ideal for use on coated metal panels. These include:

  • Wire brushes
  • Abrasives
  • Steel wool
  • Sandpaper
  • High-pressure power washers
  • Scouring powders
  • Paint removers
  • Paint thinners

In conclusion, while the considerations above can help give you and your customers an idea of options available when cleaning metal panels, the importance of understanding and following the specific product manufacturer’s metal panel cleaning instructions can’t be overstated. As a result of diligently following all official instructions and considering these tips, your customers can avoid panel corrosion, staining or other surface damage and retain the integrity and beauty of the metal panel finish.

To learn more about metal panel cleaning, finishes and warranties, contact your local ABC representative.

Cleaning Metal Panels – Part 1: Why it Matters

Posted on by Marc Carolan

Metal roof and wall panels often feature long-lasting and durable finishes available in many colors. These finishes protect the panels and enable them to hold up and look great for decades. However, to maintain their durability and protective properties, cleaning metal panels should be done regularly throughout their service life.

ABC Blog: Cleaning Metal Panels

THE IMPORTANCE OF REGULARLY CLEANING METAL PANELS:

Ensure Panel Longevity:

Dirt and residue left on metal panels can damage their protective coating and decrease the longevity of roof and/or wall systems. Likewise, bacteria and mold and mildew build-up can accelerate corrosion to the point where the structural integrity of the panels is compromised.

Protect Panel Appearance:

Stains and algae/lime deposits left on panels for long periods of time can degrade the roof finish to the point where it must be re-coated. Note: re-coating should only be considered if the panels are still structurally sound and doing so wouldn’t void the manufacturer warranty.

Control Energy Costs:

Dirty roof panels can inhibit a roof’s ability to expel heat from a building. If the heat isn’t able to escape through the roof, it can require increases in energy costs to keep the building cool.

HOW OFTEN DO METAL PANELS NEED CLEANING?

An annual cleaning helps keep your metal panels free of tree and animal debris, moss, fungus and other finish-jeopardizing elements. Deep cleaning metal panels only typically needs to be done every 3-5 years, depending on the building conditions and location. This type of cleaning uses stronger detergents that cut through some of the toughest dirt and grime that annual cleans can miss. This includes substances such as tree sap, oxidation and other hard-to-remove substances that often collect on panel surfaces. You may also consider moderate cleaning following weather events and seasonal allergen build-up.

WHO SHOULD CLEAN METAL PANELS?

Above all, follow the panel manufacturer’s recommendations when it comes to selecting who will perform panel cleaning on your building. Before you attempt to clean your metal panels yourself, be sure the product manufacturer recommends it and doing so doesn’t void any warranties.

A professional building surface cleaning company can be helpful as working on top of buildings can pose real safety risks. Your metal panel manufacturer may be able to recommend cleaning professionals who are familiar with their products and warranty requirements, and are practiced in using the correct cleaning solutions and techniques necessary to preserve your metal panels.

THE IMPORTANCE OF FOLLOWING MANUFACTURER MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS:

Metal panel manufacturers usually provide maintenance and cleaning instructions specific to their products, which should always be followed. Manufacturers know the composition of their products and, therefore, which chemical cleaning solutions and techniques are ideal and which will degrade the panels. Neglecting to clean them—or doing so improperly—can compromise the integrity of the finish. Not only can this threaten the visual appeal of the panels, it can also put you at risk of voiding the panel warranty.

To learn more about the importance of cleaning metal panels, contact your local ABC representative or check out our blog post on metal panel maintenance.

DISTRIBUTORS: Shop online at shop.abcmetalroofing.com!

Metal Roofing & Hurricane Season Part 2: Tips to Help Your Customers Protect Their Metal Roof

Posted on by Tyler Roose

As with any kind of roof, proper maintenance is integral to protecting against hurricane damage. In part 1 of this series, we reviewed how choosing metal roofing can help prevent wind damage to homes and businesses. And while choosing metal panels as a roofing solution is the first step to damage prevention and increasing roof longevity, there are additional precautions your customers can take to protect their investment.

ABC Blog | Metal Roofing and Hurricane Season

Professional inspection 

Prevention is key. To maintain the strength and durability of metal roofs, your customers should have a licensed metal roofing professional inspect it regularly. While your customers can manually inspect their roof themselves, a qualified roofing inspector can thoroughly examine it, identify areas of concern and provide a detailed report including roof life expectancy, photos and repair estimates. Professional inspectors can also make hurricane preparedness recommendations based on your customer’s roof type.

Ensure all fasteners are secure 

Fasteners are the key to preventing roof uplift as a result of high winds. Be certain the roof is properly fastened to the truss and that the correct fastener type, diameter, length and thickness are used. Consider the thickness of the panel, substrate and any other materials between the panel and truss to when selecting fastener length to ensure roof panels are secure. (Screws often need to be triple the length to accommodate the thickness of what’s being screwed down.) Additionally, although placement of fasteners may seem like a minor detail, screw pattern can actually be a major factor in a roof’s structural integrity. Be sure to follow the panels manufacturer’s instructions to the letter during installation.

Check for rust, loose screws and flaking paint 

When rust develops on metal, it can accelerate degradation, compromising the integrity of your customer’s structure and leaving it vulnerable—particularly in inclement weather. While ABC offers Galvalume® metal panels that prevent rust from occurring, standing water and heat from direct exposure to the sun can degrade this protection over time. Therefore, it is important that customers regularly check for rusty and loose screws as well as flaking paint which can also cause rust development. If rust is found, advise your customer to contact their roofing contractor for repair options.

Install hurricane straps

An added layer of protection from high winds, hurricane straps (or roof tie-downs) securely tie rafters to load-bearing walls. Made of galvanized metal, they can attach to most roof types, protecting it and the structure beneath. Hurricane straps can also help keep a roof from detaching and causing damage to nearby structures and objects. Many homes already have them (depending on how old the roof is), but even structures with hurricane straps should be checked to make sure they were installed properly.

Add roof reinforcements

Although most metal roofing is resistant to wind-related damage, adding reinforcements can decrease the likelihood of damage. This is particularly true if your customer’s building project is located in a hurricane-prone area. To reinforce their metal roof, your customers can add sturdy overlapping materials on top such as heavier metal panels or two-by-fours. A professional roofing contractor can advise your customer on the best reinforcement option for their structure.

Brace gable ends

Gable ends experience a lot of exposure to high winds, making them vulnerable to wind damage. If your customer’s structure has a gable end, they should ensure that it has been solidly built and appropriately braced.

Trim your trees 

Trees that hang over your customer’s roof can be dangerous any time of year, but particularly during a hurricane. Falling tree limbs can cause severe roof damage, allow water into the structure, cause electrical issues or even injure someone inside. Trimming trees to is an easy way to prevent damage and injury.

Perform an interior inspection 

If your customer is experiencing issues with their roof, chances are that they will also see damage inside their structure. Your customers should be aware of any spots, stains, peeling paint and daylight seeping in. These are all serious indicators of a compromised roof and should be addressed immediately.

Secure the Yard

Unsecured items around your customers’ property can become a major threat to your customer’s home or business during a hurricane. With strong winds, patio furniture, trampolines, grills and even potted plants can become dangerous projectiles. If these objects strike your customers roof, they could cause severe damage. Customers should move small items inside and secure larger items with rope or zip ties.

Choosing metal panels as a roofing solution is the first step to preventing building damage during hurricane season. There are, however, extra precautions your customers can take to prevent damage and protect their investment.

For additional information on metal roof performance during hurricane season, read part one of our blog series. For additional tips on how to storm-proof your roof, reach out to your local ABC representative today.

Quote and order metal building products anytime, anywhere and from any device using our online ordering tool. If you don’t already have an account, register for access today!DISTRIBUTORS: Shop online at shop.abcmetalroofing.com!

Note: This post was updated from a previously-published version.