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Metal Panels In Construction

Why Choose Metal Panels For Construction?

Today’s most innovative building designs have been created through the use of architectural metal panels. Not just for their durability and strength, but for the incredible design opportunities that they can achieve. Here are just a few of the benefits that architectural metal panels can offer on your next construction project:

Versatility

Metal panels can be used almost anywhere in a building project. On the exterior, they can replace heavy wall cladding, such as concrete or masonry, as the entire wall or to give contrast. They are also much faster and easier to install. On the interior, metal panels can replace conventional materials like wood or drywall to create unique wall and ceiling surfaces that are strong, durable, and aesthetically unique. With so many different materials and finishes to choose from, you can create anything from a rustic aged metal wall, to a sleek and modern stainless steel design.

Limitless Capability

Metal panels are not only available in hundreds of different styles and finishes, they are also malleable. Meaning the design capabilities of your home or building are limitless. Imagine complex shapes, curves, or even three dimensional accents. Metal panels can bring these visions to life in ways that concrete, brick, or wood simply can’t.

Durability

Metal panels provide a strong exterior that can withstand high winds, water damage, and hard impacts. Metal panels are also fire resistant and, depending on the material, resistant to corrosion and electrochemical reactions. Requiring little maintenance, they are the perfect construction material for creating an easy, long-lasting building.

Lightweight

Because metal panels are so lightweight, the load requirements for the structural components are reduced. Leading to quicker construction time, lower construction costs and less complex installation requirements. On the interior, depending on the type of material used, architectural wall panels can be much lighter than drywall or other materials, while offering greater rigidity.

While the practical benefits of metal panels for construction are many, so too are the aesthetic advantages. From extraordinary details, wide range of colors, and array of creative construction ideas, metal panels become a clear choice for both the structure or the roof. If you would like to learn more about your metal panel options, contact our qualified team of professionals at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com.

metal roofs vs. shingles

Why Metal Roofs Are Better Than Shingles

If you’re in the market for a new roof, you have likely come across two of the most popular types to choose from – metal roofs vs. asphalt shingles. While there are several reasons one may consider either material, choosing the option that is best for your budget and building in the long term is the only way to have a roof you are happy with. That being said, we believe metal to be the best choice there is – and here’s why!

Yes, Metal Roofs Are Complex

A metal roof requires specific techniques, experienced installers, and more pieces to make it succeed. However, it withstands extreme weather conditions, offers the versatility that other materials lack, and lasts decades longer than an asphalt shingle roof. On top of all that, metal roofs are:

  • Lightweight: Metal roofs are easier for both installers and your home to handle. Installers can easily get the pieces where they need to go, and once in place, it won’t weigh down on the structure; reducing frame damage and preserving the integrity of your house. 
  • Long Lasting: Metal roofs should last at least 50 years until signs of degradation begin to show. Different metal materials, such as copper and zinc, have even been known to last 100 years or more in some instances. Compare this to shingles, which have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years.
  • More Affordable Long-Term: While an expensive upfront cost, metal roofing is typically less expensive in the long-term. This is because one metal roof can easily outlast at least three asphalt shingle roofs!
  • Easy To Maintain And Adjust: Because they are so durable, metal roofs require little maintenance, simply needing to undergo a good clean now and then. They are also easy to adapt to eco-friendly practices, such as collecting rainwater or attaching solar panels. 

Shingles Compared To Metal Roofs

Asphalt shingles are more economical in the short term, including being easier and cheaper to install and repair/replace. However, asphalt shingles have plenty of cons when compared to metal roofing, including: 

  • Shorter Lifespan: Because shingle roofs must be replaced every 15 to 20 years, they end up costing more in the long run when compared to metal roofs.
  • Less Durable: Asphalt shingles are less durable than metal roofs, unable to withstand high winds and impacts. Because their installation also requires drilling into the housing structure, they also weaken the overall strength of your home while putting more stress on the building due to their weight.
  • Less Ecofriendly: Asphalt shingles are unable to be recycled, have a larger carbon footprint from production, and even hold heat – reducing the energy efficiency of your home.
repair metal roofing panels

Can Metal Roofing Panels Be Repaired?

Your metal roof panels have an expected lifespan of 50 to 100 years – a shelf life that is unrivaled in the roofing material industry. But like most materials which are consistently exposed to weather and the elements, metal roofs will eventually begin to deteriorate. Begging the question, can your damaged metal roofing panels be repaired?

When To Repair Metal Roofing Panels

Most metal roofing systems can last for several decades before they need to be replaced. However, we highly suggest having your metal roof inspected every 2 years in order to make sure there aren’t any structural issues or small leaks. These damages can quickly turn into bigger problems.

Common metal roof repairs that may turn into bigger problems include replacing areas that are suffering from oxidation, re-tightening fasteners, seams, and flashing that are starting to open or loosen, and patching leaks. Repairing these metal roof problems quickly can go a long way towards preventing bigger maintenance or replacement projects in the future.

When To Restore Metal Roofing Panels

No matter how well your metal roof was built, installed, or maintained – as the years go by the potential for leaks and other problems will increase. Regularly reviewing your roof’s condition can help you discover leaks or other flaws that can be fixed via repair or restoration before a complete replacement is necessary. A roof restoration typically involves replacing fasteners, patching or replacing damaged areas, and even applying an acrylic or urethane coating to the panel.

What It Will Cost to Repair a Metal Roof

Many times, roof repair that is found and fixed early can cost less than $1,000. While a new roof sealant is usually between $500 to $2,000. However, if you’re faced with a roof repair that is $5,000 or more, it’s time to consider a restoration or roof replacement. As with any roofing material, you’ll get the longest lifespan with the least issues with regularly scheduled inspections, maintenance, and repairs.

Although it’s more durable than other roofing types, metal roofing is still vulnerable to wear and tear. The biggest culprits to metal roofing are harsh weather conditions and improper care. Annual inspections and maintenance can pay off significantly over time. If you would like to learn more about your metal roofing options, contact our qualified team of professionals at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com.

Metal Roofs in Winter

Can Metal Roofs Insulate Your Home In Winter?

Metal roofs are an excellent choice for keeping your home cool in the summer while cutting back on those extreme summer energy bills. But can that help keep you cozy and warm during the cooler months? Let’s take a look at how metal roofs insulate your home in Winter.

How Can Metal Roofs Insulate Your Home In Winter?

Metal roofs are actually the best choice you can make to keep your home insulated and safe through the winter. Because it takes so long for metal to heat up and cool down, it essentially stores heat all through the day and releases it all through the night. This process both insulates and radiates heat, all at once. If your ultimate goal is to preserve energy, you can enhance this effect by choosing the right underlayment and insulation.

How Else Do Metal Roofs Stand Up To Winter?

The holiday season is merry and bright, but brings with it the dangers of snow, ice, severe winds, and extreme temperature fluctuations. This can lead to hail, falling branches, ice, snow, and extreme temperature fluctuations. Luckily, metal roofs can protect you from all this. Metal roofs can withstand high winds, don’t crumble under the weight of snow, do not contract with temperature fluctuations, and allow the snow to slide right off the moment the temperature rises above freezing.

So How Does A Metal Roof Cool My Home In Summer?

Get yourself a roof that can do both! Along with being an excellent thermal conductor, metal is also an excellent insulator. When the sunshine hits your roof in winter, your metal roof will absorb the heat from it and store it to fight off cold at night, keeping your building warm after sunset. During the summer, metal roofs reflect UV rays keeping your house cool.

From durability to insulating your home, of all the conditions Winter may bring, nothing stands up to them quite like a metal roof. And with a lifespan of up to 50 years, a metal roof is one of the best exterior investments you can make. Contact our team today to learn more. We will be happy to answer any of your questions at  1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!

Are Metal Panels Affordable

Are Insulated Panels Affordable?

Utilizing insulated metal panels (IMPs) within building projects has become one of the most innovative developments within the construction industry. Used as interior cladding, exterior roofing, inner-room partitions – you name it! These panels combine durability with versatility;  reducing overall construction time, increasing structural lifespan, and minimizing both operating costs and maintenance responsibilities. But how much will they cost you?

How Much Do Insulated Panels Cost?

At first glance, IMPs may seem more costly than traditional building materials. However, it is important to consider the many advantages of constructing with IMPs. Because IMPs are pre-fabricated and lightweight, they are far easier than traditional building materials to install. They also easily achieve airtightness and insulation levels with no extra work. This means building time will be quicker AND cheaper. So, while IMPs may be more expensive to buy upfront, over the whole project, the costs will only be 3 to 5% more. 

Saving Over The Long Term

It is also important to consider how IMPs will save you money over the long term. Their insulation and reflective properties keep cold air in and hot air out – or vice versa during the winter. Leading to huge savings in terms of heating and cooling costs. IMPs also lend themselves to a long shelf life which requires minimum maintenance; saving you repair and replacement costs that are unfounded in traditional building materials. Don’t forget to consider the unexpected. Durable metal panels can resist hurricane force winds and can also help protect your business from fire thanks to their flame resistant foam core.

While up-front costs may seem higher, it is important to bear in mind all the ways IMPs save you money in the long run. From labor to maintenance to energy efficiency. Metal panels are a wonderful, eco-friendly, and long-lasting investment to make for your home or building. Wondering which style of IMPs is right for your project? Contact our team today to learn more! We will be happy to answer any of your questions at  1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!

IMPs in the Summer

Do Insulated Panels Keep Your Home Cool in the Summer?

An overbearing sun may be okay if you’re visiting the tropics. But you likely don’t want the same conditions beaming into your building or home. This is why it is important to fortify your building with insulated metal panels (IMPs). IMPs are one of the best ways to protect against intense summer rays, keeping your home cool and comfortable.

Why Are Houses Hot In Summer?

For most traditional home builds, there is very little between the wall material and the sun. Heat transfer caused by conduction through the wall begins, and as heat flows from hot to cold, the heat from the sun will enter your home and be absorbed by the cool air coming from your air conditioner. As a result you will need to run the air conditioner longer and harder to maintain a comfortable room temperature. Obviously, the longer and harder you run your A.C., the more money you will need to spend to stay cool.

How Do IMPs Help?

IMPs reduce heat transfer thanks to their high R-Value and a low thermal conductivity. This provides your building with a superior thermal performance. As a form of continuous insulation, there are no gaps or pockets left unprotected, and they are even air tight around the joints. All of which will help keep the heat out and your cool air in!

IMPs Go Beyond Heat

IMPs can also help protect against moisture infiltration caused by humidity. If your home does not have a proper vapor barrier, when the vapor penetrates the walls, moisture will then get trapped in the insulation and become wet. Hello, mold that can lead to allergies and other illnesses. Luckily, with properly installed IMPs you can eliminate the fear of these harmful penetrations. With no gaps or joints left unprotected, IMPs are the perfect way to keep your building both air and weather-tight over its lifetime.

Aside from IMPs, metal roofs are also a great way to keep your home cool during the Summer. Modern metal roofs have been designed to efficiently reflect more heat and can reduce your cooling cost by as much as 25%! Interested in IMPs or Roofing Panels for your home? Contact our team today to learn more. We will be happy to answer any of your questions at  1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!

Is Metal Roofing Lightweight

Is Metal Roofing Lightweight?

Is Metal Roofing LightweightYou likely haven’t put much thought into how much your roof weighs. But once you start to consider the question, it becomes obvious how important this detail really is. The roof is one of the largest features of your home. After all, it covers the entire house! Depending on the materials used in its construction, a residential roof on a 2,500-square-foot home can weigh as much as 50,000 pounds. That’s equivalent to having five full-grown African elephants up there.

Weight of Metal Roofs

Luckily, roofs come in many different materials – including our favorite, metal! On top of boasting environmental sustainability and energy efficiency, metal roofs also come in at the lowest weight among all “standard” roofing materials. Did we mention they hold up better than the rest of the materials too? The average weight of 100 square feet of different metal panels is as follows:

  • 45 pounds: aluminum shingles
  • 80 pounds: steel shingles
  • 120-150 pounds: steel standing seam

Cons of a Heavy Roof

A well-constructed home can easily support a roof weighing up to 50,000 pounds. However, the homes structural and support materials weaken over time. And if the weight of the roof is too much, the aging home is more likely to move and shift underneath it all. Extremely strong windstorms and, even worse – earthquakes, can wreak havoc with the structure of an older home. And in the event of a fire, a heavier roof is more likely to collapse and cause further damage. Now is also a good time to mention that metal roofs are also highly fire and flame resistant.

So why should you consider a light metal roof? Not only for the above benefits, but also for their durability, insulating properties, fire-resistance and their ability to keep looking great decade after decade Metal panels are a wonderful, eco-friendly, and long-lasting investment to make for your home. If you would like to learn more about your metal roofing options, contact our qualified team of professionals at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com.

Are Metal Roofs Ecofriendly

Are Metal Panels Eco-Friendly?

Are Metal Roofs EcofriendlyWe make decisions every day that contribute to our overall carbon footprint. Reusable bags at the grocery store or declining a printed receipt are some small steps we can take. But as home or building owners, there are even bigger moves we can make that have a larger impact. One such decision is building with metal panels. Whether you plan to use these panels for side cladding or for a roof, the sustainability benefits are the same. So what is it about metal panels that make them so eco-friendly? 

100% Recyclable

Metal panels contain a high percent of recycled materials – your wall cladding could have been a refrigerator or automobile in its past life. And when the lifecycle of your panels eventually come to an end, the material can be recycled yet again! When the service life of a metal roof ends (decades after installation), the material can be recycled yet again.

Energy Efficienct

According to data from ENERGY STAR, heating and cooling can account for up to 50% or more of a home’s total utility consumption. The use of metal roofing can help with energy efficiency through solar radiation reflection if you use unpainted metal, or by increased re-emittance of solar radiation with pre-painted or granular coating metal roofing systems.

Incredible Life Span

While recyclability and energy efficiency are great reasons to choose metal, the biggest reason people use this material is its long shelf life. Roof shingles have a life expectancy of 20 years; compare that to a metal roof’s expectancy of anywhere from 40 to 70 years. Not only does this save you money in the long run, but avoids asphalt shingles finding their way into landfills every 20 years.

Other Reasons

There are plenty of other factors that make metal panels eco-friendly. They are the perfect material for collecting rainwater thanks to their anti-microbial paint systems. They’re also able to shed large materials easily without the range of crevices and cracks for those materials to adhere to. Metal panels also have the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any regularly used building material, so they’re ideal for solar panel installation.

For these reasons and more, metal panels lend themselves to the best that sustainable buildings have to offer. Protecting the earth and your bottom line. Contact our team today to learn more. We will be happy to answer any of your questions at  1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!

Lifespan of a Metal Roof

What is the Lifespan of a Metal Roof?

Lifespan of a Metal RoofIf you are considering making the upgrade to a metal roof, you probably have a lot of questions. Such as, can a metal roof withstand my local climate? How hard will a metal roof be maintained? Are there energy benefits to a metal roof? And perhaps the most important – how long will this investment last me? Good news! Metal roofs are known for more than their good looks; they are also known for their long lifespan!

So What Is The Expected Lifespan of a Metal Roof?

When it comes to the lifespan of traditional roofing materials, metals are unrivaled in their longevity. In fact, the majority of metal roofs can often last 50 to 100 years with the proper care and maintenance. Compare this to other asphalt shingles, which last between 10 and 20 years. And homeowners can rest easy knowing that when the gig is up, their metal roofs can be 100% recycled.

What Factors Contribute to the Lifespan of a Metal Roof?

  • Metal roofs are better able to withstand the slight contraction and expansion that comes with changing temperatures. Because of this adaptability, they are far more durable than conventional roofing materials. They also have the highest impact resistance and hail rating!
  • Metal roofs are not susceptible to cracking and crumbling when exposed to high UV like shingles are.
  • Thanks to their overlapping construction and protective sealant, metal roofs are far less likely to experience water damage compared to other roofing structures. 
  • Metal roofs are unattractive to pests, such as termites. Making them far less exposed to outer factors that would challenge the roof’s integrity.

Ways To Ensure Your Metal Roof’s Longevity.

Ensuring the longevity of your metal roof is easy with proper care and maintenance! You should clean your metal roof at least once per year, but ideally after the change of each season. Don’t forget to clean gutters, drains, and other debris from the surface of the roof. Structural maintenance is also important, albeit a bit more in-depth. You should have your panel seams inspected at least once per year and make sure areas in need of new/more sealant are attended to.

Metal panels are a wonderful, eco-friendly, and long-lasting investment to make for your home. If you would like to learn more about your metal roofing options, contact our qualified team of professionals at 1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com.

Metal Wall Panels In Construction

Using Metal Wall Panels In Construction

Metal Wall Panels In ConstructionUtilizing metal panels within building projects has become one of the most innovative developments within the construction industry. Used as interior cladding, exterior roofing, inner-room partitions – you name it! These wall panels combine durability with versatility;  reducing overall construction time, increasing structural lifespan, and minimizing both operating costs and maintenance responsibilities. What ways can metal panels be used in your next construction project?

Metal Wall Panels Can Be Used Anywhere In Construction

One of the main benefits of metal wall panels is their versatility! On the exterior, they can replace traditionally heavy wall cladding, such as concrete or masonry products. Panels could even be used to create a roof decking or smaller details such as trims. On the interior, metal panels can replace conventional materials such as wood or drywall . Creating unique wall and ceiling surfaces that are strong and aesthetically pleasing. In both applications, the panels can be used as the entire material or as an accent – creating a focal point on the structure.

Metal Wall Panels Can Be Used In Any Type of Construction

Industrial, agricultural, commercial, residential. It doesn’t matter what sort of structure you are erecting, metal wall panels can be used within it. This is in part due to the hundreds of available styles and finishes. The panels can be flat or have varying types of ridges; they can be smooth or have one of many different textures. They are available with natural metal finishes, clear coated, painted in any number of colors or even as composite panels with metal or veneered wood surfaces. Metal wall panels also come in a wide range of shapes and sizes to better accommodate your intended application.

Tips For Achieving Optimal Performance From Your Metal Wall Panels

In order to get the most benefits out of your metal wall panels, you have to incorporate them into your construction project appropriately. The construction team should:

  • Pay attention to joint detailing between the interior and exterior walls to avoid thermal bridging.
  • Seal around door and window openings  with a sealant that can withstand your local climate.

Metal wall panels are an excellent option for taking your construction prooject to the next level. When installed properly, your wall panels can provide a sustainable, durable, and low-maintenance material for years to come. Wondering if we can help with your  next construction project? We will be happy to answer any of your questions at  1.855.838.9393 or info@londonecometal.com!