Tag: metal project planning

Metal Panel Installation: Surface Considerations and Building Applications

Posted on by Ken Buchinger

In our last blog post, we outlined the steps to take before metal panel installation to ensure projects are built to last. In this post, we’ll take a look at the important metal panel installation considerations that should be made, particularly when working with varying surface conditions and building end-uses.

Surface Considerations:

During the installation of metal panels, it is critical that installers:

  • make sure everything is square and on a level plane (i.e., plumb and true). If it’s not, it will need to be corrected. Note: It is not recommended that the building owner do this themselves unless they are experienced and comfortable assuming the associated risks.
  • ensure the integrity of the substrate is not compromised. If installation issues or delays are caused by faulty substrate, for example, the parties responsible for the substrate would need to correct the causal issue. In retrofit projects, existing substrate issues must be addressed, but it is likely that the original builder will not be able to be sourced to correct the problem. In this case, a roofing consultant or knowledgeable substrate tradesman can help advise.
Installing Metal Panels with Different Building Applications

While installation is generally the same for most end-use applications, some equipment may vary. Depending on the other products or materials in the mix, there are certain caveats to keep in mind. For instance:

  • Over Asphalt Shingles: While installing a metal roof over an existing asphalt shingle roof is possible, it is not recommended to place metal panels directly over asphalt. In this scenario, keep in mind that:
    • It’s best to remove asphalt shingles or use a furring strip to create a buffer. (This means you can use a 1” x 4” piece of wood to provide clearance between the asphalt shingles and the metal panels.)
    • It’s not ideal to lay underlayment on top of asphalt and then install a metal roof because the shingle will curl and those imperfections will show through the metal, particularly when using lighter gauge.
  • Over Dissimilar Metals: Do not let your metal panels come into contact with dissimilar metals or allow run-off water that has been in contact with dissimilar metals to come into contact with the metal panels.
  • Over Treated Lumber: Separator material can be recommended by your installer or preferred material provider (lumber yard, home improvement store, etc.) and should be used; appropriate fasteners designed to be used to connect treated lumber with metal panels should always be used in these cases as well.
Other Metal Panel Installation Considerations:

The need for the following features and considerations can vary based on projects.

  • Vapor barriers
  • Ice and water shields
  • Regardless of all else, you’ll always want to be sure local codes/Homeowners Association (HOA) requirements are met.
Final FAQ:

How to choose a Metal Panel installer? End-users can request a list of nearby installers who may be able to help with their project from their metal building material supplier. Material manufacturers do not make these recommendations.

What if your panels are installed incorrectly? Let the installer know about any issues as soon as possible and work to get them resolved quickly. If you think the improper installation jeopardizes the product warranty, please advise the company that sold the material to you (metal panel distributor) as soon as possible. They will work with the manufacturer to resolve any warranty issues.

For more information on metal panel installation considerations or to find a metal panel distributor or installer in your area, contact your local ABC representative.

 

Preparing for Installation of Your Metal Panels

Posted on by Tyler Roose

There is no doubt that selecting metal roof and wall products is a wise investment. To make the most of that investment, it’s important to take certain preparation steps before beginning your metal panel installation. Once you’ve purchased the materials you need, the next order of business is to ensure the metal panels, trim and components are properly prepped. This is your best chance at keeping your job site safe, making sure your materials are not lost or damaged and ensuring your project stays on schedule so you reap the benefits of going metal.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  • Step One: Project Planning

    Starting your project with a clear plan will yield the best results. When planning your metal panel installation project, choosing an appropriate time to install is essential. Considerations will vary based on your location and include:

    • Moisture levels: it’s better to install when it’s dry (no rain, dew, snow or ice) as installing when surfaces are slick increases chances of slipping and injury.
    • Wind conditions: it’s better to install in low-wind conditions to prevent chances of injury/product damage.

  • Step Two: Material Check

    Once your materials are delivered to your warehouse or job site, the next order of business is to make sure you’ve received all of the building materials you ordered and that all pieces are in good condition. You will need to:

    • Manage a material receiving checklist
    • Check your panels for moisture, denting/bending, wind damage and additional transit abrasion
    • Ensure proper storage of your materials, including panels and trim in bundled and stacked sheets, to protect them from damage and prevent corrosion and/or galvanic reaction

    Check out ABC’s blog post on metal panel delivery and material handling for details on proper loading and unloading, cutting and job site safety. Additionally, our post on metal panel storage provides best practices on keeping your panels and components in pristine condition whether they’re going to be installed immediately or stored for future use or sale.

  • Step Three: Metal Panel Installation Preparation

    Once the location of the project is defined and the materials have been ordered, delivered and checked, the ultimate responsibility for on-site panel preparation lies with the installer, who should:

    • Re-check that all materials are present and in good condition
    • Arrange the material so that it stays undamaged and doesn’t pose a hazard to anyone on the site during installation
    • Ensure all metal panel installation tools are available and properly functioning, including drills, ladders and seamers
    • Make sure all safety preparations have been made and all safety gear is in good condition, including gloves, eye masks, safety helmets, boots and wrist guards.

Metal building panel and components manufacturers often make a variety of resources available for review, including product details, technical bulletins and installation manuals that can help building owners, distributors/contractors and installers alike. For more information on preparing for metal panel installation, contact your local ABC representative.