Tag: roof installation

How to Prevent Ice Dams on Metal Roofs

Posted on by Ken Buchinger

Those in areas prone to below-freezing temperatures are likely familiar with ice dams and the costly damage they can cause. With winter weather already upon us, it’s important to ensure your building is protected against the dangerous and expensive effects of ice dams.

What Causes Ice Dams to Develop?

Most ice dams are a result of building air barrier flaws. When warm indoor air escapes through a rooftop, it warms the roof sheathing. This rise in temperature melts the underside of the layer of snow on top. The melted snow then moves down the slope of the roof toward the eaves, where it freezes into ice. As this process continues, the ice thickens, resulting in ice dams. These obstructions can cause water to back up and form a reservoir that can damage ceilings.

Ice Dams | ABC Blog

How Can Ice Dams Be Prevented?

To prevent ice dams, follow these four steps:

  1. Seal Air Leaks: Sealing air leaks between the warm building interior and the attic or ceiling is imperative to prevent increased sheathing temperatures that can lead to ice dams. If your roof leaks every winter, it’s likely that an air leak is to blame. And, getting a new roof is not likely to help—even if it features more ventilation. The simple way to determine if you have air leaks is to get into your attic and check. Leaks can likely be easily sealed with two-component polyurethane spray foam. And extending any exhaust fans that don’t reach outside can help adequately seal the structure.
  1. Ensure Proper Insulation: Many buildings don’t have adequate insulation levels to prevent ice damming. Building codes based on your geographic location can help you determine how much insulation you need. If the structure’s design doesn’t allow for adequate insulation, we recommend installing as much closed-cell spray polyurethane foam as possible. If replacing your roof, you can also install additional rigid foam insulation on top of the existing roof sheathing before you install the new roof. When taking that approach, make sure all products used are compatible with your new roof and adhere to manufacturer’s recommendations. It’s also imperative that attic insulation completely covers the top plates of a building’s exterior walls.
  1. Improve Ventilation: Improving ventilation alone will not prevent air leaks that cause ice damming and should never be your first or only defense. In fact, improving ventilation without sealing air leaks and installing adequate insulation can increase heating costs and make ice damming problems worse. Despite this, if combined with steps one and two above, addressing your roof ventilation can’t hurt. The best ventilation options include soffit and ridge vents. It’s important to remember that all attic ventilation systems require an insulation dam (blocking) between the trusses and ventilation baffles at the attic’s perimeter, facing the soffits, to maintain a ventilation channel from the soffit to the attic and protect against wind-wash.
  1. Use Underlayment: Covering your roof sheathing with two or more layers of rubberized membrane underlayment is another protection method that is far less effective if not used in concert with steps one and two. To use properly, it should extend from roof eaves to a point that’s three feet higher than your exterior wall.

Additional measures like framing your roof with raised-heel trusses can also help prevent ice dams. Additionally, avoiding including valleys as well as gutters that are at or above the roofing plane is ideal. Taking these steps can help ensure people and property are safe from overhead dangers. This should be a priority when designing, installing and maintaining your metal roof.

For additional information on how metal roofs perform in winter weather, read part one and part two of our ‘Metal Roofs and Snow’ blog series. For additional tips on how to winter-proof your roof, reach out to a local ABC representative today.

DISTRIBUTORS: Shop online at shop.abcmetalroofing.com!

When to Call a Metal Panel Manufacturer: Part II

Posted on by Ken Buchinger

In Part 1 of this series, the success of a metal roof or wall project can rest heavily on the installer’s ability to recognize issues. When that happens, calling the manufacturer is not just suggested, but imperative to ensure any potential problem is averted before it’s too late. In addition to issues like damage to the physical panel or problems with the fasteners discussed previously, let’s take a closer look at a few other common circumstances under which ABC recommends reaching out to the manufacturer:

Alignment and Substrate Issues

The installer is responsible for verifying the condition of the substrate and checking for proper alignment before attaching any sheeting materials. If the installer notices any issues like this (either before installation or once they begin laying panels), they should stop and address them immediately. This might include oil canning or other irregularities in panel appearance. The installer should investigate the source, and—if unable to identify and properly remedy the situation on their own—they should call to the manufacturer’s support team. They may be able to suggest ways to identify source of the problem—whether it be installation or manufacturing—and from there, make suggestions on how to best address the situation.

 

Accessories

Adding penetrative accessories such as snow guards or mechanical curbs to a roof or installing doors, windows or louvers to walls can impact the system, its weather-tightness and appearance. Oftentimes, accessory installers with little or no knowledge of metal sheeting systems come onto the job to perform accessory installation. In these cases, it’s wise to visit with manufacturer prior to installation of these accessories and to alert the non-metal panel installer of precautions the manufacturer suggests be taken.

The image at left represent several installation issues that could have been avoided by calling the metal manufacturer prior to installation. The piping used is not compatible with metal roofing and was not installed in such a way to prevent issues with roof performance, including leaking and water damage.

Manufacturer recommendations can vary based on the panel type and building slope, as well as on the accessory and fastener type, and installation location.

Another factor to consider when adding accessories to your metal building is that some material types can react negatively with the installed metal system and lead to damage as well as void manufacturers warranties. Since accessories can be make of many different types of material, any potential accessories should always be researched prior to installation to ensure the material type is compatible with your metal roof and/or wall system.

 

Panel Engagement

Panel systems are designed and engineered to attach and engage one another to ensure optimal performance. These specification are outlined in the manufacturer’s installation manuals and project drawings. If at any point the panel does not engage as depicted in the details, installation should be halted and reviewed to determine the cause. This can require a call to the manufacturer to help determine if the matter is site- and/or substrate-related or if it’s a manufacturing issue requiring replacement material.

Panel engagement issues that warrant ceasing installation and making a call to the manufacturer include:

  • laps are not nesting properly
  • clips are not engaging as they should
  • panel modularity can’t be controlled
  • panels aren’t “resting” on the substrate—causing excessive bowing and stress

Once the material is completely installed, it is much more difficult to determine the cause of a problem and is potentially more expensive to remedy. Additionally, in many cases, full installation constitutes acceptance of the product and the manufacturer’s hands could be tied or extremely limited in being able to assist in remedying after the fact.

By knowing when to be proactive with a call to the manufacturer, installers can mitigate many types of potential pitfalls. And if you’re just not sure, it’s best to call.

For more information on metal roof and wall products, visit us online or reach out to your local representative today!

When to Call a Metal Panel Manufacturer: Part 1

Posted on by Ken Buchinger

Each metal building installation is unique and even the most experienced of installers can run into trouble on a job. Whether a panel isn’t engaging properly, it’s not meeting stated tolerances or fasteners are missing or not working, anyone who takes on the task of installing metal panels needs to know when to call a metal panel manufacturer for support, guidance and resources at any time to ensure the success of their project.

ABC Blog: When to Call a Metal Panel Manufacturer

Manufacturer Resources:

While it’s not the manufacturer’s responsibility to guarantee their panels are installed correctly, reputable manufacturers should set installers up for success. They can do this by providing product resources and recommendations on how to alleviate or mitigate potential pitfalls, and by sharing tips on how to avoid common mistakes that other installers have made.

  • Product Installation Manuals and Construction Drawings: Before installation begins, the product installation manual and detailed construction drawings should be reviewed by the installer—especially if this is his or her first time working with the product. These resources contain all the product information needed as well as installation best practices. American Building Components makes product details and installation information available to metal panel dealers and distributors through shop.abcmetalroofing.com. If you’re a dealer or distributor, click here to learn more and sign up for an account!

Installation techniques can vary based on the unique dimensions of the panel as well as on the actual building design. When an issue arises that is beyond an installer’s expertise, it’s in the best interest of everyone involved to call a metal panel manufacturer for input before permanent mistakes are made.

When to Call a Metal Panel Manufacturer

Examples of when American Building Components recommends that an installer immediately call a metal panel manufacturer are:

  • Product Damage: Building owners may not always be able to recognize material damage and understand how it can be detrimental. Therefore, installers should always evaluate all building materials before any installation begins. If—after review—damage is suspected, the building owner should take pictures of the damage and notify the manufacturer immediately. The manufacturer will advise if the issue is minor and installation can begin, or if the panels should not be installed. The last thing you want to do is install damaged panels and have to uninstall them and wait for new materials. The impact of removing and replacing panels like this will significantly increase cost and delay the construction schedule.
  • Fastener Issues: The type of fastener used depends on the material they will be fastening to (substrate). If the substrate differs from what’s stated in the project details, check with the manufacturer to verify that the provided fasteners can be used. If the screws aren’t engaging properly, or there any problems with the fastener type. The manufacturer can advise how to move forward based on the project details. In short, substituting fasteners with ones not supplied by the manufacturer is never recommended.

Remember: no problem is too small to call a metal panel manufacturer for advice! In part two of this series, we’ll share more situations when calling the manufacturer will save time, money and headache. For more information on metal roof and wall products, visit us online or reach out to your local representative today!

Concealed v. Through-Fastened Metal Roof and Wall Panels: How to Choose

Posted on by Tyler Roose

All metal panels—whether for commercial, residential, industrial or agricultural applications—are attached to the structure using either fasteners, clips or a combination of both that keep them in place. Vertical panels, in particular, are often categorized by the type of fastening method used to attach them, which is most often either using hidden/concealed fasteners or using an exposed (through-fastened) method. Here we’ll look at the benefits your customers can experience when using these common fastening types, as well as their differentiators, including price/budget, durability, aesthetics and ease of installation.

Concealed-Fastened Roofing Panels

Concealed-fastened panels are attached to the substrate with clips, which means the panels are not pierced to secure the connection. The clips and fasteners, therefore, are concealed underneath the metal panels when properly installed—arguably making the roof more aesthetically pleasing. These panels are offered in various styles, depending on which options your customers choose and additional job-specific considerations. This method is common in architectural and residential applications where a clean appearance and protection from environmental exposure are priorities.

Through-Fastened (Exposed) Roofing Panels

Through-fastened panels are generally attached with screws or nails, which puncture the overlapping roofing sections to lock the panels into place. They are also installed using washers, which provide leakage protection around the puncture hole. The fasteners are on the outside face of the panel and are visible even after the installation is complete.

So, how do your customers decide which option is right for their project? See below for some factors that can help them choose between a concealed- or through-fastened approach.

Key Considerations

Price/Budget:

Concealed: Typically, concealed-fastened panels can be more expensive overall due to the longer installation time required. In addition to increasing the labor cost, this installation method also takes longer, which affects your customer’s project schedule. However, ABC’s SL-16® panel can be installed faster and for about the same cost as exposed-fastened panel systems.

Through-fastened: While less expensive, through-fastened applications are more prone to issues. For example, if a washer fails, the screw can pop, which allows water in and can cause leaks and corrosion. While washer material is of a higher quality and more dependable than in the past, this is still a concern.

Durability:

Concealed: Because concealed fasteners have limited weather exposure, they therefore generally have a longer lifespan than panels with exposed fasteners. Additionally, there is less wear and tear since concealed panel fasteners are not as affected by the metal panel expansion and contraction that occurs when temperatures fluctuate as exposed-fastened panels are.

Through-fastened: Because concealed fasteners have limited weather exposure, they generally have a longer lifespan than panels with exposed fasteners. Additionally, there is less wear and tear since concealed panel fasteners are not as affected by the metal panel expansion and contraction that occurs when temperatures fluctuate as exposed-fastened panels are.

Aesthetics:

Concealed: Aesthetically, the main question is whether your customers want the screws to be visible or if it’s important that they are hidden. A concealed-fastened application is considered more aesthetically pleasing, as the lack of visible fasteners, creating a smooth, clean appearance. Generally, residential and architectural buildings favor concealed-fastened roofing panels.

Through-fastened: As stated, the hundreds of fasteners required to secure panels are exposed and visible on the outside of the panels. This method is often used on agricultural and industrial buildings, as clean aesthetics are usually less important for customers in these markets.

Ease of Installation:

Concealed: Installing concealed-fastened metal panel systems is time-consuming and complicated as compared to through-fastened. In fact, the complexity of the process dissuades many DIY installers from taking on the task.

Through-fastened: Exposed-fastened metal panel systems require less installation time as each fastener is drilled directly onto the outside of the panels. This makes it the method of choice for the majority of DIY installers. Overall, this method works well with simple structures but can be difficult to use on more complex projects. It should also be noted that through-fastened panels should be installed with care so that there is proper sealing. There also may be length limitations due to thermal movement.

Conclusion

The type of fastener system your customers choose for a given metal panel project will depend on a wide array of factors—budget, durability, aesthetics and ease of installation. Making the right choice is one step in ensuring the success and integrity of their building for years to come.

For more information on ABC’s concealed and through-fastened metal panels, visit our website. As always, our team is ready to help with your metal panel needs, so reach out to your local representative today!