Over the past six months, as our industry and country have faced unprecedented challenges brought on by COVID-19, the Metal Construction Association (MCA) has been working to provide leadership, guidance and value to our members and the industry. Our focus at MCA has always been to promote the use of metal in the building envelope, and this year that work has expanded even further. Through our massive market development efforts, MCA connects with the building community, emphasizing connections with architects, designers and contractors to showcase the benefits of working with metal in building construction.
The MCA develops tools for the metal construction industry
With METALCON and other key industry events canceled in 2020, now is the time to engage with MCA to take advantage of the tools and resources provided to help offset the economic impact of COVID-19. Here are a few examples of publications and resources we provide on behalf of the metal industry.
Setting a New Standard for Testing Flashing on Metal Roofing Systems
Research shows that flashing failure can be a big contributing factor when a metal roofing system fails in high wind. In order to combat flashing failures, MCA has taken the lead, along with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), in developing a new standard for testing the performance of metal flashings used with metal roofing systems. The standard, ANSI/MCA FTS- 1-2019, “Test Method for Wind Load Resistance of Flashings Used with Metal Roof Systems,” is available now.
MCA will be proposing that testing metal roof flashings per this standard be included in the next version of the International Building Code in 2024. Meanwhile, the standard is available to specifiers and manufacturers of metal roof systems to ensure proper performance of the edge flashings with metal roof systems and assemblies.
Metal Roofing Certification
MCA’s Metal Roofing Certification program is open to paint and coating companies, roofing product manufacturers, coil processors and rollformers. With the knowledge that comes from certification, you’ll be able to assist contractors and consumers alike in choosing the right metal roof for their needs.
Advancing Technical Documents and Publications to Serve the Industry
Industry education is a core tenant of the mission of MCA. In collaboration with industry partners, we conduct technical studies and research projects that produce bulletins, white papers, manuals and reports aimed at ensuring metal is at the forefront of innovation and proactive with codes and standards.
Over the past year, we’ve developed several resources and courses to educate the building and design community regarding specific metal topics. You can find MCA’s full suite of technical resources at metalconstruction.org.
Retrofit Metal Roofing Manual: MCA’s new and comprehensive “Retrofit Metal Roofing Manual” is perfect for everyone involved in retrofitting with metal roofing and light-gauge steel framing systems. Learn the latest code-compliant and market-ready materials, installation methods and best practices to successfully re-roof with metal.
Best Practices-Metal Building Sealant Types and Application Guidelines: This document is an overview of the sealant types commonly used in metal building, including general application guidelines. It highlights standardized testing used to compare the performance of various sealant products so the end user can make an informed decision on the correct product for a specific application.
MCM Labeling: Who Cares and Why?: Dozens of products lay claim to being metal composite material (MCM) or composite materials, which is why it is important to understand the labeling program to ensure the product being supplied uses the process, components and quality requirements required.
Publication Updates Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs): EPDs on MCMs, IMPs and roll-formed steel panels highlight the environmental impact of products and provide guidance on the use of LEED building materials to develop more energy-efficient and environmentally responsible buildings.
Fastener Compatibility with Profiled Metal Roof and Wall Panels: This technical bulletin serves as a guide for the selection of exposed fasteners used with metal roof and wall panels.
What is Metal Composite Material?: This three-part series discusses the history, make up, production and quality control of MCMs.
We’re always working on behalf of the industry. Join us!
Each year, MCA commissions an industrywide statistical study on metal construction looking at both current and projected trends and offering growth models by building segment. Access to this in-depth report, an exclusive for MCA members, is just one of the many reasons to consider joining MCA. We offer unparalleled technical and coding resources, promote metal to the broader construction and design industry, and organize unique opportunities for networking and collaboration with your industry peers.
Members of MCA enhance their businesses by using this vast array of resources to set themselves apart from their competitors, demonstrating an unsurpassed depth of knowledge within the industry and how their product or service meets or exceeds current standards. For a limited time, membership dues are reduced by 25%. We hope you’ll take advantage of this offer and join our 100+ member companies who are helping position metal as the key material in the building construction industry. Learn more about MCA and all the benefits of membership at metalconstruction.org.
Jeff Henry, MBA, CAE, is the executive director of the Metal Construction Association. He leads MCA’s staff in supporting industry members and elevating the use of metal in construction.
