If you have walked the exhibit floors of construction trade shows over the last few years, you’ve noticed something significant. In addition to all the new booths about software and other technology, there has been a proliferation of exhibitors of roofing underlayment. This product category seems to have undergone a huge transformation, and building product manufacturers are responding to an increase in demand.
In our sixth annual Readers’ Choice Awards, we see that demand clearly, as Metal Construction News readers identified four different underlayments as their top products for the last year, and of those four, three were in the top six of overall products.
This is part of a trend we’ve seen over the last couple of years of this award as more and more roofing products get greater interest. They range from metal roofing panels to insulated metal panels to chimney pots and caps.
As usual, we also see a number of energy reduction products rising to the surface, including insulation materials and daylighting products that help reduce energy demands. But the bigger change in the 2019 Readers’ Choice Awards compared to previous years is the number of tools our readers were interested in. In fact, the Empire Level Manufacturing Co.’s TRUE Blue Squares took the top spot. We like to think that is a reflection of the increasing focus on attracting quality workers to the trades and a devotion to improved skills and better training.
For a product to be considered for the Readers’ Choice Awards, it must have been featured in our editorial coverage between the May 2018 and April 2019 issues of Metal Construction News. We tracked the leads generated by each product from our readers and ranked them according to the number of leads.
Congratulations to the winners of the 2019 Metal Construction News Readers’ Choice Awards.
1. Empire Level Manufacturing Co.
TRUE BLUE Squares
January 2019
TRUE BLUE rafter, framing and combination squares have laser-etched markings and scribing features. The 7-inch and 12-inch high-visibility rafter squares feature SCRIBEGUIDE, a scribe notch pattern for marking at 1/2-inch and 1/4-inch increments. Framing squares feature ARC-SCRIBE, which provides common radiuses for marking window and door arches. They have graduation marks at 1/8-inch, 1/10-inch, 1/12-inch and 1/16-inch, and conversion tables for common rafter and brace cuts. The 6-inch, 12-inch and 16-inch TRUE BLUE combination squares have blade locks for fast adjustments and secure holds. They also have dual-pitch vials for checking 1-degree and 2-degree slopes, and rational head dimensions for quick checks of common dimensions.
2. DAP Products Inc.
Ultra Clear Sealant
January 2019
Ultra Clear flexible, all-purpose, waterproof sealant adheres to a variety of building materials including metal, brick, glass, stone, tile and wood. It remains flexible, including in cold weather, and does not turn yellow. Ultra Clear sealant can be applied in low temperatures (20 F) and on wet surfaces to stop leaks. When cured, it is mold and mildew resistant. Ultra Clear sealant is available in a 10.1-fluid-ounce cartridge and 5-fluid-ounce squeeze tube.
3. MFM Building Products Corp.
Wind & Water Seal Underlayment
December 2018
Wind and Water Seal underlayment is high temperature rated to 250 F. It works well under metal roofing systems, and is self-adhering and self-sealing around fasteners. The 40-milthick roof underlayment may be used as a whole roof covering to offer secondary water protection. Rolls are 36 inches by 67 feet (200 square feet).
4. Dupont Safety and Construction
Tyvek DrainVent Rainscreen
January 2019
Tyvek DrainVent Rainscreen is composed of a drainage mesh laminated to a filterfabric backing. It protects exterior wall systems from moisture damage with a 6-mm (1/4-inch) space behind cladding. The gap allows water to drain and air movement for drying, which helps prevent rot, cracking and peeling. Tyvek DrainVent Rainscreen can be installed behind metal panels, brick, fiber cement, stone veneer, stucco and wood. It has a 3-D honeycomb-textured design that provides uniform, nonstructural support for cladding.
5. Boral Roofing LLC.
MetalSeal Underlayment
December 2018
MetalSeal is a high-temperature, self-adhered underlayment. It is designed for metal roofing and is also suitable for any roof material in any climate. The waterproofing material provides all-season, durable protection by bonding to the base sheet or directly to the roof deck, and self-sealing around fastener penetrations. MetalSeal provides a high-strength, woven polyester surface, meets or exceeds all national and Florida building code requirements, and is rated to 260 F. It comes in 216-square-foot rolls for a net two squares.
6. McElroy Metal Inc.
Hydra Shell MAX and Hydra Shell Supreme SA Underlayment
December 2018
McElroy Metal’s HydraShell MAX and HydraShell Supreme SA are synthetic underlayments. HydraShell MAX has a four-layer construction and is used under all types of finished roofing materials including steel roofing. It is suitable for roof pitches as low as 1/2:12. HydraShell MAX requires few fasteners and provides a durable deck cover. HydraShell Supreme SA is a peel-and-stick underlayment. It works in high-temperature, self-adhering applications. It has SBS-modified asphalt that provides pliability and a cool gray surface that reduces heat build-up.
7. Milwaukee Tool
Shockwave Matrix Carbide Driver Bits
March 2019
Shockwave Matrix Carbide driver bits feature Shockzone geometry in varying lengths and thicknesses to absorb peak torque from impact drivers and prevent breaking. A variety of bit lengths and kit configurations are available in Phillips, square and Torx tips. They can be used for steel stud framing, dry walling, decking and prefabrication.
8. ST Fastening Systems
#12 WOODBINDER OSB Fastener
January 2019
#12 WOODBINDER OSB fasteners hold metal roofing to OSB or other thin wood substrates. They have a V-neck design and aggressive thread with STRIP LOC to help prevent strip-out in OSB. The #12 WOODBINDER OSB fasteners can also be used as a replacement fastener for nails or screws that have stripped out in OSB. The fasteners have a sharp point with Type 17 slot that helps to drill the proper sized holes for maximum strip-out prevention. They come with corrosion-resistant POWDERFUL powder coating that can be matched to panel colors. Applications include backyard and portable buildings with metal roofs, and residential metal roofs fastened to OSB.
9. Kingspan Insulation LLC
GreenGuard PB6 Fanfold Roofing Cover Board
June 2018
GreenGuard PB6 fanfold roofing cover board is used for a separation layer over existing asphalt shingles, wood shakes and wood decking, to install metal roofing. The insulation board can also make smooth surfaces on gravel-surfaced roofs. It has a closed-cell extruded polystyrene core and polystyrene facer sheets on both sides that do not delaminate. The moisture- and puncture-resistant board comes in 4-foot by 50-foot fanfold bundles and has an R-value of R-1.5 on 3/8-inch thickness.
10. Western States Metal Roofing
Streaked Series of 7/8-inch Corrugated Metal Panels
July 2018
Streaked Series of 7/8-inch Corrugated metal panels includes Streaked Rust, a Kynar 500/Hylar 5000 PVDF finish that looks like weathered Corten steel. Different colors and shades of paint in the highs and lows create depth and a realistic paint print. The highs of the corrugations look like a rusted brown; the lows look like streaked orange rust. The 24-gauge steel panels have a 2.67-inch pitch between corrugation centers. They’re 39 inches wide and produced in lengths to 45 feet. The exposed fastener panels are used for roofing, siding, interior walls, bar kick-stops and other applications.
11. Reflectix Inc.
Double Reflective Insulation
June 2018
Double Reflective Insulation can be used in metal roof and wall assemblies. It has two outer layers of 96 percent reflective material bonded to two layers of heavy-gauge polyethylene bubbles (5/16-inch thick). The reflective insulation comes in 16-inch to 10-foot widths by 50-foot to 125-foot lengths. Standard edge and staple tab edge configurations are offered. Double Reflective Insulation does not require specialized tools for installation.
12.Super Stud Building Products Inc.
EDGE Steel Framing System
March 2019
EDGE Steel Framing System features a closed triangular lip for safety. It does not have sharp edges anywhere along the length of the studs. The drywall studs come in three thicknesses. The EDGE 25 is 15 mils (0.015-inch) thick and can be used instead of 25-gauge framing. The EDGE Performance 20 is 19 mils (0.019-inch) thick and is manufactured from 55-ksi materials. The EDGE Super 20 is 23 mils (0.023- inch) thick and is manufactured from minimum 40-ksi material. The EDGE Steel Framing System is UL Classified for use in one-, two-, three- and four-hour wall assemblies, and complies with ASTM C645 and C754.
13. Western States Metal Roofing
Roof and Wall Panels in Copper
March 2019
Western States Metal Roofing offers its roof and wall panels in copper. Available copper panels include 7/8-inch Corrugated, PBR Panel, Western Rib (7.2 Panel), Western Lock Standing Seam, T-Groove Flush Wall/Soffit Panel, Western Wave Rigid Wall Panel and Western Reveal Panel. The panels can be produced in 3/4-inch hard copper in 16-ounce and 20-ounce options. Additionally, 48-inch-wide coil and flats are also available for projects that require wide coils. Painted versions of the various stages of patina for real copper include Streaked Copper, Streaked Blue Copper, Speckled Copper, Speckled Blue Copper, Aged Copper, Blackened Copper, Copper Patina, Green Copper, Weathered Metallic and Copper Penny.
14. Boral Roofing LLC
Pine-Crest Shakes
August 2018
Pine-Crest Shakes are stone-coated steel shakes that replicate hand-split wood shakes. Pine-Crest Shakes may be installed directly to roof decks or wood battens to roof-over existing roofing materials on roofs with a 3:12 or greater pitch. They have a 120-mph wind uplift rating, Class A fire rating and Class 4 hail rating. Eight standard colors are available: Barclay, Charcoal, Country Blend, English Suede, Ironwood, Sage Green, Timberwood and Windsor.
15. Triangle Fastener Corp.
CONCEALOR Pancake Head Screws
January 2019
CONCEALOR Pancake Head Screws attach standing seam roof (SSR) clips to metal, wood or concrete. Additionally, they attach SSR clips over thick rigid insulation, face fasten insulated metal panels to steel, and attach nail hem style, clip-less panels to wood. The fasteners have a low-profile pancake head that provides clearance between the fastener head and panel. A square recess drive eliminates cam-out of the drive bit. CONCEALOR Pancake Head Screws are produced with #10, #12, #14 and 1/4-inch diameters; lengths go to 9 inches. TRI-SEAL coating provides corrosion protection.
16. Minarc Inc.
mnmMOD Structural Insulated Panels
January 2019
mnmMOD structural insulated panels (SIPs) are produced with a blend of recycled steel and expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation. Chases come pre-installed. The panels’ minimum R-value is R-4.7 per inch. Standard 6-inch panels are rated R-28. Thicker walls and denser polystyrene with higher R-values are also available. MnmMOD SIPs do not have any wood and contain 30 percent recycled content. They do not mold, harbor termites, warp or support fire. The panels do not emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), contain no dyes or formaldehyde, and are fully recyclable.
17. Werner Co.
L6200 Fiberglass Leaning Ladder
March 2019
L6200 fiberglass leaning ladder features a Leansafe ladder top that secures tools and accessories, and securely leans against flat wall surfaces, wall corners, poles and wall studs. The ladder has a secure rail latch to keep rails locked in place and a lower rear rail to front rail connection that allows users to get closer to work areas when the ladder is in stepladder mode. The L6200 fiberglass leaning ladder has a 300-pound load capacity and a non-marring foot pad to maximize contact with the ground.
18. CornellCookson Inc.
StormDefender Door
January 2019
StormDefender Door is a rolling steel door for safe room protection from tornados and hurricanes. It provides protection from projectiles and wind pressure to 250 psf. The StormDefender Door can be installed right into precast concrete, embedding it into the infrastructure of a building. It has a release device that allows it to close without loss of door spring tension, which provides maximum protection. The rolling door is tested and certified to ICC500-2014 and FEMA P-361 standards. The fire-rated version meets UL10B and UL1784 standards.
19. Banker Wire
Secondary Finishes for Wire Mesh
January 2019
Secondary finishes for its wire mesh via other vendors including physical vapor deposition (PVD). PVD produces a range of metallic colors and a finish that is corrosion resistant, scratch resistant and does not patina. The process uses a vacuum chamber to create and deposit metallic vapor onto stainless steel wire mesh. PVD utilizes titanium nitride, carbide and dioxide compounds to produce finishes including Champagne, Chocolate, Cobalt Blue, Gunmetal, Rose Gold and Royal Gold.
20. Velux America LLC
Modular Skylights
July 2018
Modular Skylights integrate ventilation and sunscreening components into skylights. They are produced in six configurations: Longlight 5-25°, Wall-mounted Longlight 5-40°, Northlight 40-90°, Ridgelight with Beam 5°, Ridgelight 25-40° and Atrium Longlight/Ridgelight. Modular Skylights integrate into a variety of architectural styles and roof configurations, and provide a range of interior lighting levels. They are pre-engineered and do not require job-site caulking, puttying, welding, soldering or glass cutting.
21. Big Ass Fan Co.
Pivot 2.0 Fan
March 2019
Pivot 2.0 fan features balanced airfoils, a direct-drive motor and variable speed controls. It is 6 feet in diameter and cools air as far as 120 feet from the fan. The Pivot 2.0 fan has 73 airflow positions and can be mounted to ceilings, beams or columns. It operates quietly and has a steel cage for safety. The Pivot 2.0 fan is Intertek/ETL-certified to UL 507 and CSA C22.2 No. 113.
22. Southern Aluminum Finishing Co. Inc.
SAF Sunshades
March 2019
SAF Sunshades are constructed of extruded and formed aluminum sheet for minimal weight and corrosion resistance. Different blade shapes such as airfoils, round tubes and Z-shapes are available. SAF Sunshades are customizable and come in a variety of anodized and PVDF finishes.
23. CopperCraft by Fabral Inc.
Chimney Pots and Caps
September 2018
Chimney pots and caps are handmade by metal artisans in copper, Freedom Gray Copper and steel. They protect chimneys and interiors from weather damage and pests. The chimney pots and caps are available in three standard footprints: octagon, square and round. Heights range from 25 3/4 inches to 52 1/8 inches. Diameters range from 14 inches to 24 inches. CopperCraft’s chimney pots and caps are shipped ready to install.
24. IMETCO
AquaBlock Underlayment
December 2018
AquaBlock roof underlayment is a self-adhering, SBS-modified membrane for metal roof panels, metal shingles and metal tiles. The self-sealing roof underlayment has a silicone-treated, split-back release film for installation, and can be installed directly to concrete, plywood, wood composition board and gypsum. AquaBlock is designed to protect against water infiltration due to ice and snow accumulation at penetrations, valleys and edges on sloped roofs.
25. Petersen Aluminum Corp.
Flush Wall Panels
January 2019
Flush wall panels have a rounded interlock leg and concealed fastening system that improves the flush appearance and provides strength. Additionally, they are available with a reveal-style joint. Maximum panel length is 25 feet; minimum length is 4 feet. Flush panels are factory formed to length to minimize field cutting. They are used for walls, fascia and soffits to create a flush, or flat, appearance. On-center dimensions are offered to complement PAC-CLAD roof panels.
26. Fabral Inc.
Silhouette HCF Series Panels
January 2019
Silhouette HCF Series horizontal, concealed fastener panels are available in a range of profiles and configurations, including options for one to four ribs. An interlocking side-lap feature hides fasteners and is installed with or without clips to allow for thermal movement. Purlin spacing is a maximum of 4 feet on-center. The panels have a field curving minimum radius of 200 feet. HCF Series panels come 12 inches wide or 16 inches wide, and at a maximum length of 30 feet.
27. Solatube International Inc.
SolaMaster 300 DS Tubular Daylighting Device
July 2018
SolaMaster 300 DS tubular daylighting device may be installed in small or low ceiling spaces. It can also be used in hard and suspended ceiling systems with 2-foot by 2-foot grids. SolaMaster 300 DS works on new and retrofit projects with 16-inch on-center framing without structural modifications. It features Spectralight Infinity with SoftLight technology, which provides light diffusion without light loss by manipulating the spread or beam of light coming down its tube.
28. FallTech
7410M Hinged Reusable Roof Anchor for Steel
July 2018
7410M Hinged Reusable Roof Anchor for Steel is used on flat and sloped roofs to a 12:12 pitch. Installation requires a minimum 22-gauge steel decking and 14-gauge Z-purlin. The 7410M Metal Frame Structure Anchor comes with a plated alloy steel D-ring and plates, and 12 #14 by 2 1/2-inch, self-tapping, sheet metal screws. The temporary anchor has a minimum static strength of 5,000 pounds, ANSI user capacity of 310 pounds and OSHA user capacity of 425 pounds.
29. Skyco Skylights Inc.
Industrial Unit Skylights
July 2018
Industrial Unit Skylights feature polycarbonate domes with 70 percent visible light transmittance. The 4-foot by 8-foot skylights have a copping system that eliminates cracking and leaks, and condensation gutters. They are curb mounted or self flashing. Industrial Unit Skylights passed an 800-pound impact test and have a Class IV hail rating. Additionally, an optional VORTEX venting base is available.
30. Silvercote LLC
Energy Saver FP Insulation System
June 2018
Energy Saver FP insulation system provides high R-values in roof and wall envelopes for new construction. It consists of a network of banding straps, bright interior support fabric and un-faced ECOSE glass mineral wool insulation. The insulation uses hot melt technology, which gives it instant adhesion, fiberglass recovery, and minimal wrinkles and slip on the facing. Single- and double-layer configurations available, providing solutions that meet IECC 2015 energy code requirements. Energy Saver FP provides OSHA compliant, leading-edge fall protection.
