Why Roof Repair Is Necessary

Over time, shingles and tiles experience wear and tear from weather conditions. If left unchecked, this can lead to structural damage and leaks.

Roof Repair

Roof repairs can be done in a number of ways. A good first step is a visual inspection of the entire roof, taking note of problem areas like rot, leaks, and sagging. Visit their Site for more details.

Shingles and tiles are designed to withstand a lot of wear and tear, but they’re not infallible. High winds, flying debris, and hail can damage or loosen them up to the point where they need to be replaced. Often, these kinds of problems lead to leaking, which can damage the roof deck and support structure, cause staining on walls and ceilings, and even affect your indoor plumbing. Leaking roofs also require costly repairs, so it’s best to catch the problem early and begin the repair process.

If you notice a damaged or missing shingle, start by inspecting the surrounding areas to ensure that there are no other shingles that have been affected. If there are, purchase a bundle of new shingles that closely match the original color and texture to replace them all at once. This will create a uniform appearance, as opposed to a patchwork look that’s often the result of patchwork roofing repairs.

You’ll need to use a ladder to access the roof, so it’s important to carefully follow safety guidelines when working up there. Be sure to wear a harness and heavy-duty gloves and ask someone to hold the ladder for you as you climb. It’s also a good idea to take note of the weather when planning your roofing repair; rains and hot temperatures can make it more difficult to work effectively and can also compromise the quality of your finished product.

When repairing damaged shingles, first locate the nails that secure them. If necessary, loosen the shingles above them by sliding your pry bar underneath one side of the shingle and prying up to lift it from its place. Repeat on the other side of the shingle until you’ve removed all eight nails and pulled the shingle free.

Then, line the shingle you’re replacing with the shingles above it and gently slide it in. If necessary, trim the edges of the new shingle so it will fit well with its neighbors and won’t create any unsightly gaps or overlaps. Finish by caulking the perimeter of the shingle with roof cement to provide an airtight seal and prevent water from seeping into your home.

Leaks

When water infiltrates the home, it can ruin furniture, damage walls and ceilings, soak insulation, and promote dangerous mold growth. Even a small leak can cause serious problems if it goes unnoticed for long periods of time, leading to costly repairs or structural damage.

The most obvious sign of a leak is water stains on ceilings or walls. These may appear as musty spots or dark areas that grow larger over time. Water can also create puddles and drips on the floor or in the attic. Leaks are a clear indication that the roof needs immediate attention, so you should contact a professional roofer as soon as possible.

It is also a good idea to check the attic for signs of leaks, such as water marks or wet spots on the wood under the roof. Wet or rusty pipes in the attic often indicate that they have a leaking seal, which can be fixed by a professional roofer.

Another common source of roof leaks is faulty flashing. Flashings are thin metal pieces that are installed around chimneys, vents, and skylights to divert rainwater away from the roof. They can be subjected to heavy loads and deteriorate due to weather elements or improper installation, creating gaps that allow water to seep through. If you notice water stains near a chimney or vent, this is a good indicator that there is a leak in the roof’s flashing.

If a sagging bulge protrudes from the ceiling, it’s important to puncture this area with a screwdriver and immediately place buckets or pans beneath the dripping point to collect the water. This will prevent the problem from spreading further, and it can be repaired by applying a roof patch or sealing with caulk. If a bulge appears to be getting worse, then the best option is to call a professional roofer for a complete roof replacement. A skilled roofing technician will inspect the entire roof for any signs of leaks and ensure that all underlying issues are addressed. This will save you from costly repairs down the line.

Sagging

A sagging roof is not just unsightly, but it also indicates a serious structural issue that could compromise the structure of your home. Whether it’s a dramatic dip or a slight curve, a sagging roof should be evaluated by a professional. Sagging can cause the roof trusses or rafters to bow, which can lead to water leaks and other damage.

There are a number of causes of sagging, including excessive weight and old age. If you suspect your roof is sagging, check for signs of water damage in the attic or basement, and consider a professional assessment. A professional can evaluate the extent of the sagging and recommend repair or replacement methods that address the root cause of the problem.

Often, the most effective solution for a sagging roof is to add support beams or braces that help distribute the weight evenly across the structure. Temporary supports, like joist jacks, can lift the sagging area and prevent further damage until permanent repairs are made. A qualified roofing contractor can safely and effectively install these supports, as well as identify any underlying issues that may contribute to future sagging.

Other common fixes include repairing gutters and downspouts, as well as replacing damaged roof materials that can contribute to water leaks. A sagging roof can also be caused by foundation settlement, which can affect the alignment of walls and the roofline.

A thorough inspection is essential before attempting any roof repair work, especially on older homes. Start with a visual inspection from various angles and take a straightedge, like a long level, to measure the extent of the sagging. You can also check for interior signs of a sagging roof, such as doors and windows that stick or gaps between walls and the ceiling.

For more serious sagging, you may need to replace some or all of the rafters or trusses. Depending on the extent of the damage, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire roof. Contact a roofing company to determine the best course of action for your DMV home. They will be able to assess the damage and provide an expert recommendation for the most effective and cost-efficient solution.

Insurance

Homeowners insurance typically covers roof damage caused by sudden and unforeseen perils, like hail, wind, heavy rain, lightning, or falling objects. Homeowners can also purchase supplemental policies that cover specific risks or provide increased coverage limits.

Leaks, sagging, and other structural problems often require roof repair. However, a roofing professional should inspect the overall condition of your roof to determine the extent of damage and recommend the right repair solution. If you suspect leaks, water stains on ceilings or walls, or sagging, it is critical to address the issue immediately to avoid extensive and costly interior damage.

The cost of roof repair can vary depending on the severity of the damage and your insurer’s deductible. Deductibles are usually either a flat amount or a percentage of your insured value and may differ between policies. To minimize out-of-pocket expenses, it’s important to understand the details of your policy, especially if you have an older roof that will result in lower actual cash value (ACV) after the deductible is met.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover damage to detached structures like sheds, garages, or outbuildings in addition to the main house. Those with older roofs may want to consider purchasing an add-on or supplemental roof coverage policy for added protection.

Some roofing professionals offer services that assist homeowners with the claims process. This includes documenting damaged areas, obtaining multiple repair estimates, and advocating for fair settlements. In addition to reducing financial stress, consulting with a roofing specialist can help prevent future issues by ensuring that your claim is processed properly.

Keep in mind that filing a claim can increase your premium in the future, so it is important to weigh the pros and cons of an insurance-based repair versus paying out-of-pocket. Also, homeowners often find that their insurance company doesn’t cover the full cost of repair or replacement because they filed a previous claim or have a history of filing claims. A roofing professional, like Built to Last Roofing, can assist you with determining the best solution for your needs. They can even take the burden out of deciding whether to file an insurance claim by handling all aspects of the inspection and claims process on your behalf.

Should You Repair or Replace Your Roof?

Replacing your roof is a big investment, but it will protect your home, add value and give you peace of mind for decades to come. Whether you need to repair or replace, it’s important to make the right decision now to avoid costly damage down the road.

Roof

Localized damage resulting from recent storms or isolated shingle issues typically call for repairs. More extensive damage across large sections of your roof compromises structural integrity and requires a full replacement. Contact Roof Repair La Vergne TN for professional help.

Damaged shingles are among the most common roof repair issues. The structural integrity of your roof is compromised if moisture can get in through damaged shingle areas, which can lead to leaks and interior damage. Handling shingle repairs promptly is essential to ensure your home’s resilience against future severe weather events.

Shingles can be damaged by high winds, hail or normal wear and tear. A thorough roof inspection can identify shingle issues, including bald spots and blisters, which are signs that the shingle has reached the end of its lifespan and needs to be replaced.

In addition to checking shingles, you should also inspect the flashing around chimneys, vents and skylights for looseness or corrosion. Inspect the soffit, too, where it meets the roof. Cracks in the soffit or a leaking roof deck can lead to water penetration through shingle areas and other areas of the roof, which may require a full roof replacement.

Signs of shingle damage include distorted, missing or curled shingles, which can leave your roof vulnerable to leaks. You can sometimes restore shingle damage by overlapping undamaged shingles and resealing them, but this is a temporary fix that should be replaced with a complete roof replacement when the time comes.

You should also be on the lookout for granules on the ground, which indicate that your shingles are losing their protective layer and need to be replaced. Also pay attention to the color of your shingles; dark gray or black granules indicate that the shingle is nearing the end of its lifespan and should be replaced immediately.

The deterioration of your shingles can also be caused by extreme heat or cold, which can cause them to curl or flatten. If your shingles are showing these signs of aging, you should call for a roof repair as soon as possible to prevent further damage and potential leaks.

Leaks caused by shingle damage are one of the most common roof repair issues, and it is important to address them quickly to protect your investment and secure your living space. Leaving these problems unattended can lead to costly water damage, and they can also compromise the energy efficiency of your home and lead to increased utility bills.

Leaking Gutters

Gutters are necessary to catch roof runoff and channel it away from the house, but poorly functioning gutters can cause damage. If a gutter becomes clogged or has leaks, it can lead to basement flooding, water staining and mold growth, and even structural damage. The solution is simple: have your gutters repaired or replaced.

When a gutter leaks, it’s usually because the seams and joints have separated. These problems are easily repairable and can be done with a gutter sealant or patch kit. It is also important to inspect and clean your gutters on a regular basis to prevent the buildup of leaves and debris that can lead to clogs.

The fasteners that hold your gutters to the fascia boards can loosen over time, especially if the materials are older and have become warped from exposure to the elements. This can cause the gutters to shift and create holes, which is another common source of leaking gutters. A roofing contractor can retighten these fasteners and seal the gaps to ensure the gutters are properly secured.

Another common problem with gutters is that they can be disconnected from the downspouts due to missing or torn-out screws. This can result in water pouring out of the gutters or down over the sides of the house, which can cause shingle damage and even leak into the walls of the home.

When your gutters are leaking, it is important to have them fixed as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs in the future. It is also important to have roofing experts inspect your gutters on a regular basis to ensure the fasteners are secure and that the gutters are free from any clogs or leaks. By having your gutters inspected and repaired regularly, you can reduce the risk of major damage to your home or business that may require thousands of dollars in repairs.

Damaged Flashing

Flashing is a thin layer of waterproof material used around openings in the roof, such as skylights, chimneys, vent pipes, and dormers. It prevents moisture from seeping into the home and causing damage to the ceiling, walls, and structural members. Flashing is usually made from rust-resistant metal, such as galvanized steel. Depending on the application, it can be installed in a variety of ways. For example, step flashing is used where a vertical surface meets a sloping roof and is formed from pieces that overlap each other. Continuous flashing is a long piece of metal that protects the joint between a wall and a roof, while drip edge flashing is installed along the roof edges to help direct water into the gutters.

The most common sign of flashing damage is a visible crack or gap. This may be caused by aging, exposure to the elements, or improper installation. A gap in the flashing will allow water to infiltrate the roof, causing extensive and costly damage. It is important to regularly inspect the flashing and take prompt action if any signs of damage are observed.

If you notice signs of damaged flashing, it is recommended that you contact a professional roofer for a permanent repair. However, if the damage is minor or isolated, temporary fixes can be undertaken to prevent further issues. For example, a sealant can be applied to any visible cracks or gaps in the flashing.

When performing a DIY flashing repair, it is important to wear appropriate safety gear and use a ladder that is in good condition. The most important step is to identify the problem area and carefully remove any shingles or other roofing materials that cover or overlap the flashing. After the old flashing has been removed, it is important to clean the area thoroughly to remove any traces of corrosion or debris.

Once the area is clean, a new piece of flashing can be cut to size and installed in place. The flashing should be sealed with roof cement or another form of protective sealant to prevent water from infiltrating the roof.

Structural Damage

If the damage extends to the underlying structure, your roof repair may be more extensive than simply replacing missing or damaged shingles. A structural repair may involve reinforcing the damaged area, resealing leaks, or addressing underlying issues like poor ventilation or insulation that contribute to the problem.

The structural integrity of a building depends on the strength and condition of its components, as well as the overall design and construction. Structural problems can emerge from a number of factors, including environmental conditions, overloading, bad construction practices, accidents, or natural disasters like earthquakes and floods. Whatever the cause, a structural defect can compromise the load-bearing capacity of the affected component or structure, leading to reduced stability and possibly even collapse.

Poor materials and workmanship are common causes of structural problems in a home’s roofing system. Insufficient ridge board support, improperly installed flashing, and misaligned shingles can all leave your home vulnerable to leaks and water intrusion. Leaks allow moisture to seep into the building and damage drywall, paint, wallpaper, and furnishings. In severe cases, water can trickle down to the foundation and create serious problems for the entire structure.

It’s important to perform regular inspections and make minor repairs for the long-term health of your roof. A well-maintained roof can last up to 25 years or more. If yours is nearing the end of its lifespan, or if you’re thinking about selling your home anytime soon, a new roof with resilient materials makes sense for resale value.

Many insurance companies cover roof repairs and replacements when they are the result of a covered peril or event. However, damage from neglect or insufficient maintenance often isn’t covered under homeowners’ policies. Whether or not your insurance covers the cost of roof repair depends on your policy coverage limits, specific exclusions, and applicable deductibles.

Even if your home is relatively new, it’s a good idea to repair and replace any damaged components of the roofing system as soon as possible. This will help protect your investment, as well as prevent further problems down the road. Structural issues are a deal-breaker for potential buyers and can affect the sale of your home.

The Importance of Proper Roof Installation

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. It provides protection against rain, snow and wind while also regulating temperature and enhancing the overall aesthetic of your house.

Roof Installation

When choosing a roofing company, be sure to check their credentials and licenses. Also, read online reviews and ask for references.

The cost of a new roof can vary significantly. The type of roof you choose, its size and complexity, and the materials you use will all impact your overall roof replacement costs. The best way to minimize the price of your roofing project is to compare estimates from several companies. This will help you find the most cost-effective option and ensure that you get a high-quality installation. It is also important to ask your contractor about any warranty and coverage options. A good roofing company should be able to explain the benefits of these options, and this information should be included in the estimate.

A properly installed roof will protect your home from the elements and save you money on energy bills. It will also enhance the appearance of your house and increase its value. Investing in a high-quality roof is an excellent investment that will last for years to come. In addition, a properly-installed roof will reduce the need for costly repairs and replacements.

Roofing companies should provide free estimates before starting work. They will also give you a detailed breakdown of the costs involved, including labor and materials. Before you sign a contract, however, make sure to read online reviews and check the company’s licensure. You can also ask for references from previous clients, and visit their homes to see their work.

The first step in a new roof installation is to remove the old shingles and plywood underlayment. Your roofing contractor will then start the installation of the shingle base and underlayment. The underlayment is a code requirement and is essential to the longevity of your roof. It is also a critical layer for preventing leaks and mold.

Next, your roofing contractor will install an ice and water barrier, if it isn’t already there. Then they will run the underlayment over the ice and water barrier and the drip edge. The underlayment will be fastened to the drip edge with cap nails.

The cost of a new roof can range from $4 to $40 per square foot. The cost will depend on the type of shingles you choose and the size and complexity of your roof. The most popular choice is asphalt shingles, which come in different sizes and finishes. You can also choose from other roofing materials, such as ceramic, clay, metal and wood. Some of these materials are more expensive than asphalt shingles, but they can add elegance to your home.

Durability

A properly installed roof provides a durable shield from the elements, allowing it to last longer than a less-durable option. A longer lifespan for your roof can save you money on repair or replacement costs. Choosing the right material and working with a qualified roofing contractor will help you maximize the longevity of your roof.

The durability of a roof is influenced by the materials it’s made of and the weather conditions it endures. For example, the Midwest’s harsh environment can shorten the life of a shingle roof because sudden changes in temperature and strong winds can cause shingles to crack or become detached. In addition, poor drainage and inadequate ventilation can lead to moisture buildup and other problems that reduce a roof’s lifespan.

In addition to its durability, a well-installed roof can enhance your home’s curb appeal and increase the value of your property. Depending on the style and material, it can also offer energy efficiency by helping to regulate indoor temperatures and decrease heating or cooling costs.

Durability is an important factor when selecting a new roof for your home or business, but it’s also essential to consider the overall cost of the project. A reliable roofing company should be able to provide you with an accurate quote that includes the price of materials, labor and other expenses. It’s also helpful to know how much you can expect to pay for any warranty coverage.

Manufacturer warranties protect homeowners from product defects. However, they typically cover only the costs of the replacement materials and leave installation issues uncovered. Workmanship warranties, on the other hand, provide comprehensive coverage that includes all aspects of your roof installation job. In fact, a robust workmanship warranty can make a major difference in the overall cost of your roof installation project.

If you decide to go with a shingle roof, you can choose from a variety of styles and colors, including 3-tab asphalt shingles, architectural asphalt shingles and metal shingles. Each type of shingle is installed differently, with some requiring more labor than others. For example, installing a metal shingle roof involves attaching the panels to the roof’s structure and overlapping each row as you work up to the top of the roof. Other types of shingles require more careful attention to install, such as wood shingles and shakes, slate tiles and concrete or clay tile roofs.

Appearance

When your roof is installed correctly, it will look great from every angle. It should be uniform and free from damage, stains, or blemishes. If your roof looks patchy or has stains from tar or paints, it could indicate that the installation was done incorrectly. You should also check the flashing, which is a narrow strip of galvanized steel that gets installed on the edges of the roof to send water away from chimneys and skylights.

Maintenance

A well-maintained roof is vital to the integrity of a home. It protects valuable possessions and keeps the family safe from harsh weather conditions, such as hailstorms. It also helps to lower energy costs and maintain a comfortable environment. A robust roof can even increase a house’s resale value. In addition, regular maintenance reduces the need for emergency repairs, which can significantly cut down repair costs.

When you are ready to replace your roof, it’s important to hire a qualified roofing contractor to perform the job. A reputable company will provide a detailed estimate for the project, including all costs and materials. They will also take measures to protect your property and ensure that the work area is clean before beginning the project. This includes removing vehicles, covering landscaping with tarps, and positioning garbage cans so that debris doesn’t fall into them.

To minimize the risk of water intrusion, contractors will inspect the flashing on your roof. This will include the drip edge and any areas around roof penetrations such as chimneys and vents. They will add or replace the flashing, which is usually made of aluminum or galvanized steel, and seal it to prevent leaks. They will also install new roof shingles and a new gutter system, if necessary.

Ideally, you should do a visual inspection of your roof on a regular basis to look for signs of wear and tear. You should check for moss or algae growth, which can indicate moisture retention and structural damage. In addition, you should check the attic for light shining through the walls and ceiling and moisture stains on the wood rafters.

If you notice any of these problems, you should contact a roofer right away. A professional can inspect the sheathing and roof decking, as well as check for shingle tabs that are missing or loose. A roofing contractor will also inspect the ventilation system to ensure that air can flow freely and reduce moisture levels.

What You Need to Know About Roofing Installation

Roofing installation is complex and dangerous work. Unless you’re comfortable climbing ladders and throwing bundles of shingles, it’s best to hire a professional roofing contractor.

Roofing

Roofing contractors uses a variety of tools, including ladders, shingles cutters, and hard hats. They can also provide liability insurance and long-lasting warranties. They have years of experience and are trained in roof inspection.

The most visible component of a roof, shingles serve several key functions: they create the weather barrier that protects against moisture, fire and other elements, and they provide the visual appeal that completes the overall look of your home. Shingles are available in a wide range of styles, colors and materials to fit your design aesthetic and meet the unique weather conditions where you live.

Wood shingles lend a rustic charm that complements many architectural styles and is especially suitable for cottages and coastal homes. The natural coloration and atypical design of each individual shingle creates a charming appearance that adds value to your home. A wood shingle roof can also require more maintenance than other roofing materials, however, and it isn’t as well-suited to persistently rainy or damp regions. Traditional hand-rived or milled slate shingles are another beautiful and durable roofing option. Unlike other shingles, slate is extremely heavy and requires a highly skilled tradesperson to install. Slate is also more expensive than other shingles, but a properly cared for slate roof can last more than a century.

Asphalt shingles are the most common type of shingle. They come in a variety of different shades to match the color palette of your home and can be manufactured to imitate more elegant roof designs like cedar or slate. Asphalt shingles are inexpensive and durable, but they don’t offer as much resistance to moisture or high winds as other types of shingles.

In addition to their basic function, shingles can also enhance the curb appeal of your home. They can be purchased with pre-bent curved edges that help you achieve a cottage style roof, or they can be installed in a straight line to create a traditional, Tudor Revival or Colonial Revival home.

If your home is in an area prone to frequent or severe hailstorms, you may want to consider impact rated shingles. These shingles are engineered to resist the damage that can be caused by large hailstones, and they also have a greater degree of flexibility to withstand strong winds.

When you’re purchasing shingles for your roof, the best way to determine how many you need is to measure the square footage of your home. Most contractors will charge based on the size of your roof, and this measurement will give you an idea of how many bundles of shingles you’ll need to cover your entire roof. Starter strip shingles, such as IKO’s Leading Edge Plus, are efficiently designed and packaged so that they can be used at the eave or rake edges of your roof.

Underlayment

When it comes to roofs, the world of materials and components can be confusing. This is especially true for homeowners who don’t fully understand the importance of their roofing system and what goes into its construction. One of the most important pieces of a roofing system is underlayment. It provides a number of important benefits, and homeowners should take the time to learn more about it.

Essentially, underlayment acts as an additional layer between the shingles and the sheathing that protects against moisture and other weather elements. It also helps prevent leaks, which can be very damaging to the home and its contents.

A high-quality underlayment is essential for protecting the roof deck from rot, mold growth, and other damage caused by trapped moisture. It can even help protect against ice dams, and it helps prevent water from infiltrating the home in the event of an unavoidable roof leak.

When choosing an underlayment, it’s essential to consider the climate in your area and the type of roofing material you have. There are several different types of underlayment available, from felt paper to non-bitumen synthetics. Choosing the right underlayment can help you save money in the long run and ensure your new roof has lasting durability.

Before laying down the underlayment, your roofer will prepare the roof deck. This includes removing debris and making sure that the surface is clean, dry, and free of damage or protrusions. Once the deck is ready, the underlayment will be unrolled and secured to the surface. They’ll begin at the eaves or lowest edge and work their way up, overlapping rows as needed.

There are a few different types of underlayment, including felt paper, rubberized asphalt, and non-bitumen synthetics. Each has its own advantages and is suitable for specific roofing materials, environmental conditions, and budgets. It’s also important to choose a fire-rated underlayment, which can provide an extra layer of protection against the spread of flames and smoke in the event of a fire. This is particularly important if you live in an older or historic home.

Flashing

Flashing is a crucial roofing component that’s worth its weight in metal. It’s made of thin sheet metal that’s bent into shape to fit a joint, and it protects the roof from water leaks at vulnerable points. Flashing is most often made from aluminum or galvanized steel, but it can also be made from copper, lead or a variety of modern composite materials. Regardless of the material, it must be properly installed to be effective. If a roofing contractor skips the flashing in order to save time or money, the roof is at greater risk of severe moisture-related damage early on.

Leaking roofs can cause significant structural problems for a home, and they can also lead to mold and mildew, rot and pest infestations. Flashing helps prevent these issues by keeping water out of the home and directing it back out into the environment. It also protects the roofing structure from deterioration and helps keep insects from penetrating the home.

A reputable roofing contractor will install flashing in areas of the roof where leaks are most likely to occur, such as where the roof meets walls or valleys and where protrusions like chimneys, skylights and vents are located. It’s also important that flashing be placed around dormer windows, as these can become leaky without proper protection.

There are several different types of flashing, and each type is designed to perform a specific function. One type is called continuous flashing, which is a long piece of metal that acts as an apron, carrying rainwater down to the shingles below. This type of flashing has built-in expansion joints to help it flex as the house expands and contracts with the seasons.

Other types of flashing include step flashing, which resembles a standard flight of stairs and is used to protect the areas where the roof meets chimneys and skylights. There’s also kickout flashing, which is a strip of metal that’s installed along the wall to help guide run-off water into the gutter.

Metal Panels

The selection of metal panels for a project goes far beyond picking a shade that matches the aesthetic of the building and its surroundings. Many factors play a role in the choice of panel colors, including their impact on the energy efficiency of the structure. The type of panel chosen will also affect the construction timeline, and how long the installation lasts.

For decades, preformed or roll-formed metal wall panels have been a popular choice for commercial projects due to their economy, service life and design flexibility. Recent advances in coating technology have prolonged panel longevity while new design options allow them to be used in more creative applications.

Insulated Metal Panels (IMP) are lightweight composite exterior walls and roof panels with metal skins and an insulating foam core. These panels provide superior insulating properties, as well as extensive spanning capabilities without the need for support structures. The outer metal skins can be finished with a variety of finishes, providing design flexibility.

When installing a metal wall system, it’s important to consider the panel profile and whether or not an air and water barrier or rain screen is required. In addition, it’s important to identify any potential dissimilar metals that will be installed in close proximity. Dissimilar metals can cause galvanic corrosion. This is caused when the less noble metal corrodes, which can affect structural strength and integrity.

Panels are available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and profiles to meet virtually any architectural design. They’re also made from a number of different materials, ranging from steel to aluminum and zinc. Steel is one of the most common choices for commercial metal panels. It’s typically coated with a durable paint or finish that resists the elements and protects the structural integrity of the panel.

Architects can choose between different panel styles, such as T-groove or Western Reveal. T-groove is a flat, flush panel with no ribs, while the Western Reveal offers customizable gaps or “reveals” between the panels ranging from 0 to 3”. Regardless of the profile chosen, architects must ensure that the installer uses the correct fastener for each application. This will help to prevent “shadowing”, which is where welds or stiffeners are visible on the face of the panel. It’s important to avoid shadowing when possible to ensure the long-term performance of the panel.