Tag: insulated metal panels

Metal Panel Thickness

What Panel Thickness Should You Choose?

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Have you ever heard the term “gauge” when referring to metal panels? Gauge is the term used to define the specific thickness of a metal panel. Like all materials used in construction, metal panels come in a wide array of sizes, shapes, colors, and gauges. One of the first decisions a person considers IMPs will have to decide on is what gauge they would like. So what exactly does that mean and how do you determine the right gauge for your project?

Range of Gauges

The thickness of metal panels can range anywhere from 22-gauge to 29-gauge, with 29 being the thinnest and 22 being the thickest. These gauges are associated with a decimal range. For example, a 26-gauge steel panel can range anywhere from 0.0179” to 0.0217.” This also means that a 26-gauge metal panel from one manufacturer may not be the same thickness as a 26-gauge metal panel from another. Although those seem like small numbers, they represent a noticeable difference in panel stiffness and strength.

When to Choose a Thinner Gauge

Almost all homes have a layer of plywood or something similar, covered by a weather-resistant barrier. In this case, the metal panels will be affixed to the sheathing as opposed to serving a structural role. A quality 29-gauge panel is more than adequate for this situation; which is why it’s used on nearly 80 percent of homes with metal panels!

When to Choose a Thicker Gauge

When a building needs to remain structurally sound without the support of sheathing, a thicker gauge is the best option. These gauges are also more forgiving in the event of an installation error, such as over-tightening screws. Thicker trim pieces also lay more accurately. A common combination amongst contractors includes 29-gauge roof and wall panels, accompanied by a 26-gauge trim. However, you can expect to pay more for thicker panels. The cost of a 26-gauge product will be about 15% higher than a 29-gauge with the same profile from the same manufacturer. 

Wondering what gauge of metal panels is right for you? Our qualified team of professionals would be happy to help you! Contact us today at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.

Can You Build a Home Faster with Insulated Panels?

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If your home or building is constructed using insulated panels, you may be wondering why all buildings aren’t constructed this way. Insulated panels create homes and structures that are durable and energy efficient. And once the siding is installed, it is impossible to differentiate a house constructed from IMPs with a conventional one. But are these panels quicker for construction than their timber counterparts?

The Answer Is Yes!

Homes using insulated panels can be constructed considerably quicker than traditionally framed buildings.  A properly trained Structural Insulated Panels (SIP) installation crew can cut framing time by as much as 55%! But what makes construction with these panels so much quicker?

What Is A SIP?

SIPs are an advanced method of construction consisting of an insulating foam core, sandwiched between two structural facings. This kind of panel can be used for walls, roofing and floors. Because these panels are pre-manufactured and easy to erect, construction time is drastically reduced.

7-Day Build

When using SIPS, construction of a typical two-story home will take between five and seven days. This is because SIPs are pre-manufactured to your own requirements. This saves both builders and architects a lot of time on site, while further reducing the number of materials needed for a similar size build. Simply slot the panels together on site and voila! And because less supporting structure is needed, these panels also allow for a more open floor plan.

SIP Flooring?

Yep, these panels can also be used for flooring. They are even designed with the ability for utilities to run through them, meaning no drilling. If aesthetic is a concern, fear not. These panels range in style from metal to timber. And the best part? This flooring can be installed in a matter of hours opposed to the 3 days conventional flooring takes.

It’s not just construction time you can save when building with insulated panels. Builders will also enjoy decreased construction and labor costs, while homeowners will enjoy continuous insulation and better control over air quality. Wondering if insulated panels are right for you? Our qualified team of professionals would be happy to help you! Contact us today at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.

Metal Panels in 2022

Why Insulated Metal Panels Are A Great Choice In 2022

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There’s no doubt about it. Metal panels take your building to the next level. IMPs have proven to be the ultimate choice in terms of durability, versatility, and efficiency. Not only that, but IMPs come with the added benefit of sustainability. As we continue to look at how the decisions we make have lasting impacts, it would be far more surprising to not choose insulated metal panels moving into the new year. What else makes insulated metal panels a great choice for your structure in 2022?

Design Flexibility

IMPs are available in a variety of flat and corrugated surfaces suitable for exterior walls, interior walls and roofs. They come in multiple profiles that can be used in either horizontal or vertical designs and also boast a full range of colors and detail accessories that can support or enhance any design. IMPs can even come with applied finishes that create a stucco, wood or other similar aesthetic. If you’re looking for something unique, look no further than IMPs.

Environmentally Friendly

It is common for a significant portion of the steel used in IMPs to come from recycled materials. Further, the insulating properties of IMPs with significant R-values can exceed energy codes and contribute towards LEED credits. That means more efficient heating and cooling, lower bills, and the kicker? You can recycle the entire building again at the end of it’s lifespan!

Quick Construction Time

Most insulated metal panels are attached with a concealed fastener system that streamlines their installation. This allows them to be quickly installed in a single step, significantly reducing construction time. That sounds like a win-win for everyone.

Longevity

Metal buildings using IMPs have been shown to last quite well as evidenced by decades of use. Withstanding weather, fire, and, in some cases, harsh operating conditions. Depending on the local environment, their projected life could span 50 to 60 years or more.

With their simplicity of concept, design flexibility, efficient construction, and long-term performance, it is easy to see why insulated metal panels are the superior choice for buildings in 2022. For more information on IMPs, contact our qualified team of professionals at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.

How To Design With Metal Panels

Designing With Insulated Metal Panels

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Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs) can be used on or in a variety of buildings. Whether your building is residential, commercial, or industrial, IMPs offer numerous benefits. IMPs are easy to install, provide a continuous and strong barrier to outside elements, and can even improve the energy efficiency of your structure. But in order to maximize these benefits, architects and designers must know how to properly design with insulated metal panels. Correctly interfacing the IMPs with the rest of the building is paramount. Check out our IMP design tips below:

Pay Attention To Where The Metal Panels Join Other Materials

Thermal bridging occurs when one material spanning from the exterior of the wall to the interior of the wall is more conductive than the other materials around it. This displacement creates a bridge through the wall’s thermal barrier, allowing for the accelerated flow of heat, leading to condensation and eventually deterioration. How can a designer combat thermal bridging? Paying attention to joint detailing, roof to wall transitions, and transitions from IMPs to other materials. 

Choose A Proper Sealant

Sealants are a critical component to the overall IMP system. The exterior metal on the IMP will naturally expand and contract with changes in temperature, which can cause panels to bow and shift. A proper sealant will provide durability and flexibility that help withstand this strain on sealant joints. Design teams should carefully consider the climate, solar exposure, wind exposure, and humidity exposure when selecting sealant joints. The sealant should be able to withstand climatic conditions as well as anticipated structural movement.

Mind The Wall To Roof And Window To Wall Transitions

Windows and doors provide an opening for air and water to get in. It is essential that these openings are properly detailed to prevent exposure to climatic conditions. Design teams and contractors should also pay special attention to wall to roof transitions and other penetration areas, such as vents, security cameras, etc. 

In order to make the most of this material, designers and contractors should work closely to ensure the quality and integrity of the IMP system. We hope our tips help! For more information on IMPs, contact our qualified team of professionals at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.

Residential Construction

Building a Better Home with Insulated Panels

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Read all about it! Proponents say it’s the best building system you’re not using. Yet only a small number of homes are built with them every year. What are they? SIPs! Structural insulated panels (SIPs) are high-performance building panels that consist of two sheets of OSB and a layer of rigid extruded polystyrene foam insulation in between. So, what are the advantages of using structural insulated panels in your home’s construction? Let’s find out! 

Faster Build

Advocates say SIPs technology is much faster than site-built construction; speeding up the time it takes to complete your residential construction project. Actually, a properly trained SIP installation crew can cut framing time by 55% compared to conventional wood framing! There is also less waste associated with constructing a home from SIPs, resulting in lower overall construction costs. But don’t let the faster construction fool you. SIPs are structurally strong!

Energy Efficient

SIPs also result in a much more energy efficient building. In fact, the inherent energy efficiency of the system is one of the biggest benefits of SIPs! And a high-performance building envelope often allows HVAC equipment to be downsized and ductwork to be minimized. Talk about savings!

Unique Aesthetics

SIPs are manufactured under factory-controlled conditions and can be custom designed for each home. The result is a unique  building system that is extremely strong, energy-efficient and cost effective. These panels can also result in noise reduction thanks to the foam’s ability to absorb sound. Not only will your house look great, but will function well too!

SIPs and Residential Construction

SIPs have recently begun to take off in the residential construction industry. But, it may surprise you that SIPs date back to the 1930s! While the price of SIPs themselves will run you more than traditional building materials, you will spend less on labor and the associated costs with that. Like all materials. SIPs come with their own set of drawbacks. Wiring and plumbing will require more work, and the panels must be kept dry for the structure to last more than 60 years.

SIPs have resulted in better buildings, better designs, greater energy efficiency, and improved standards of living. Would you like to learn more about how metal panels can be used to enhance your building? Our qualified team of professionals would be happy to help! Contact us today at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.

Buildings Suitable For Metal Panels

What Types of Buildings Are Best For Metal Panels?

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Insulated Metal Panels are quickly becoming the new buzzword amongst building owners, designers, and contractors. These insulated panels offer a plethora of advantages – from malleable design, ease of installation, and above all, sustainability. But in what building environment do these panels perform best? It may not surprise you to learn the answer.

Insulated Metal Panels are ideal for a wide range of wall and roofing applications. Bringing with them improved energy efficiency, air and moisture control, versatile colors and finishes, and an overall lower cost over their lifetime thanks to their ease of installation and low-effort maintenance. So whether your building is residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural, metal wall panels will bring an attractive and elegant look to your project while providing excellent R-values.

Agricultural Applications

Gone are the days of unsightly agricultural buildings. Aesthetically pleasing and durable agricultural steel panels are a perfect fit for the demanding nature of farm and ranch buildings. Offering resistance and strength under extreme temperatures, as well as temperature control ideal for housing livestock, crops, or machinery. Metal panels can also be used in roll-up doors, arenas, and ranches.

Commercial Applications

Common commercial applications utilizing metal panels include retail stores, auto dealerships and repair shops, banks, restaurants, hotels, and office buildings. And it’s no wonder they are so widely used! What building owner doesn’t love reduced energy costs and lower maintenance requirements? Not to mention the unique shapes, colors, and textures metal panels can provide to the interior of the space.

Residential Applications

The most widely recognized residential application of metal panels would be a metal roof. Ideal for their long lifespan, metal panels make the perfect choice for a residential roof or modern exterior flair. In the unlikely event of a fire, metal panels may also be able to prevent your home from succumbing to the flames thanks to their fire resistant capabilities!

Insulated metal panels have resulted in better buildings, better designs, greater energy efficiency, and improved standards of living. Would you like to learn more about how metal panels can be used to enhance your building? Our qualified team of professionals would be happy to help! Contact us today at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.

Metal Panels And Agricultural Buildings

Metal Panels And Agricultural Buildings

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We know the many benefits metal panels possess. But what about their practicality? How do you know if a metal panel will suit your commercial or residential needs? Well, in this blog we will explore metal panels practical use in Agricultural Buildings, including those that house cattles, hogs, and poultry.

Why Choose Metal Panels For Your Agricultural Building?

  • Durability: Metal panels are built to withstand even the harshest conditions, such as high wind, heavy snowfall, and hail. Likewise, they stand up well against termites and other insects that may threaten your crops.
  • Longevity: Metal panels last three to four times longer than other roofs. And unlike corrugated fiberglass panels, metal doesn’t get brittle after years in the sun. Add in the fact that these panels are designed to reflect the sun’s heat as opposed to absorbing it, means your plants won’t get overheated.
  • Cost Savings: Wood buildings often need to be replaced and repaired. Metal panels eliminate these costs, and are also much easier to initially install. Not to mention their energy efficiency. The savings that come with metal panels are unbeatable!
  • Sustainability: Metal panels are made of recycled materials, and are simultaneously 100% recyclable at the end of your building’s life. We all know how important sustainable practices are in a World with limited resources.

Can You House Livestock Within Metal Paneled Buildings?

When considering metal panels for a barn or other animal enclosures, you should bare in mind that animal waste has high ammonia content that can 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.

Ready to explore the metal panel options for your agricultural building? Our qualified team of professionals would be happy to help! Contact us today at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.

What Are Metal Wall Panels

What Are Metal Wall Panels?

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Thanks to their many benefits, metal wall panels have seen a huge surge in popularity over recent years. Knowing what these panels are, the various types available to you, and how they are used can help you decide if metal panels are right for you.

What Are Metal Wall Panels Made Of?

One of the more popular metals used in commercial construction is steel, but wall panels can be made from a variety of materials, including: Aluminum, Copper, Stainless Steel or Steel, Titanium, and Zinc. Each material comes with it’s own pros and cons. For example, copper fares well in areas with high exposure to saltwater.

What Are The Specific Types Of Metal Wall Panels?

  • Single Skin Metal Panels:
    • Single skin metal panels are a single interlocking layer of metal that has been roll formed or preformed into the desired profile. Single Skin Panels offer quicker installation than other metal panel systems, and can be insulated as well. However, since they are less rigid than other types of metal wall panels, they are still very susceptible to damage, especially at ground level.
  • Metal Composite Material (MCM) Metal Panels:
    • MCM panels are formed by bonding two metal skins to a core. The end product is a metal/plastic composite with greater benefits than just using a solid metal panel of the same thickness. They are more balanced than other panels, and retain their shape even after installation. MCMs are also versatile, with the ability to be curved in different shapes and used on multiple types of buildings.
  • Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs):
    • As the name suggests, this metal wall panel is made with an insulating foam center that is surrounded by two aluminum or steel panels. IMPs tight seal makes them an excellent choice for climate-controlled facilities. Like other panels, IMPs come in numerous colors, widths, and finishes while also providing superior energy-efficient insulation.

We hope that this gives you a better idea how metal wall panels are used, why they might be a better option to use in certain situations, and which type might best suit your needs. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our qualified team for answers. We can be reached at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.

Why Metal Panels Are Gaining Popularity

5 Reasons Why Metal Panels Are Gaining In Popularity

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A quality rooftop is undoubtedly one of the most important factors when it comes to a building’s features. Your roof is your first line of defense when it comes to bad weather, maintains your home’s temperature, and prevents energy loss. Your roof should stand the test of time. Because of the high demands our rooftops are subjected to, great strides have been made to improve their material’s quality and durability. Enter the metal roof, which since it’s classic use has now been redesigned, streamlined, and optimized for both performance and aesthetics. So why the surge in popularity?

Design Aesthetics: 

Metal’s sophisticated, polished, and modern appearance is likely the biggest reason why it’s become so popular, offering nearly unmatched design choices. Metal roofs come in a comprehensive range of colors and styles. There are even finishes that mimic other materials such as clay! No other roofing material can provide you with the design options that metal can.

Energy Efficiency:

If there is one trend that’s not going away, it’s energy efficiency. And metal roofing is known to be one of the best when it comes to that category. That alone is a large reason why so many homeowners are making the transition to metal rooftops today. And why they will be used so widely in the future.

Solar Ready:

The long term benefits of solar panels are unmatched. Not only do they pay for themselves, but they also put less strain on the Earth’s resources. While solar panels can be installed on any roof, it’s a very complex process to do so. However, metal rooftops are an excellent option for solar panel installation thanks to their natural heat conduction and better structure.

Strength in Tough Weather Conditions: 

A metal roof is built to withstand inclement weather. Seriously. Hurricanes? Wildfires? Tornadoes? No problem. So, if weather is a problem in your area, there are very few options that can compete with metal roofing.

Would you like to learn more about the benefits of metal roofing? Our qualified team of professionals would be happy to help! Contact us today at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.

Pros and Cons of Metal Roofs

Pros And Cons of Metal Roofing For Homes

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Your roof may be in need of a total makeover, or perhaps you are choosing roofing for a newly constructed home. Either way, there are many materials available to you. Metal is one of the most attractive roofing options for residential homes today. This is due to their longevity, minimal maintenance and energy efficiency. What other advantages come with metal roofing? 

Advantages of Metal Roofing

  • Metal roofs come in a wide variety of styles and materials to suit any design preference. Material choices include steel (galvanized, galvalume or weathering), aluminum, copper, zinc, or tin. Style choices allow you to have the look of shingles, slate, tile, shakes or vertical panels.
  • Metal roofs have an unbeatable lifespan, often lasting anywhere from 50 to 100 years. By comparison, asphalt roofing materials have an expected shelf life of 12 to 20. This means more maintenance, or more replacement, and more money spent. That being said, the roof should be inspected periodically to ensure everything is in good condition.
  • Metal panels are one of the most durable materials out there. They undergo rigorous standards for impact resistance, can withstand high gusts of wind, and fluctuate more easily with changes in temperature. 
  • Metal panels are environmentally friendly. They are both made from recycled materials and 100% recyclable. On top of that, metal panels are energy efficient. They can result in a 10% to 25% reduction in cooling costs. 

Disadvantages of Metal Roofing

  • While metal roofs come with a host of advantages, there are some potential drawbacks. These include:
  • High Initial Cost. Metal panels are an investment. They are best suited for your “forever” home, as the cost benefits work out over time. 
  • Noisy. Metal roofs are noisier than other materials, mainly during rain or hailstorms. Choosing an insulated panel can help with this. 
  • Inconsistency. Oftentimes panels experience slight variations in color. This is especially true if you need to repair a hole years later – it may be difficult to find an exact match. 

With a full list of pros and cons, you can more easily make a decision on whether or not a metal roof is suitable for your home. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our qualified team for answers. We can be reached at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.