Metal’s Versatility

by Mark Robins | 1 April 2022 12:00 am

Standing seam metal panels have dominated the commercial roofing market for many years because of their many advantages over asphalt shingles. The life span of metal, long panel options and color choices make metal the perfect choice for a large roof surface area. Today we are seeing more and more residential applications choosing metal for a long-term solution. When long standing seam panels do not fit the bill, metal shingles are the next best option.

Stamped metal tiles are taking over the marketplace with a wide range of options. Your choice of metal, color and finish is crucial for each type of application and location. Metal shingles are available in stainless steel, aluminum and steel with a different look depending on the design intent. Companies like Millennium Forms are offering a large color palette to suit almost any project type and style. Choosing metal for your roof is making a long-term

investment for your next build. Asphalt shingles will last 15 to 30 years if you are lucky and will look worn out toward the end of their life. If the correct metal is selected for your application, your roof will last a millennium.

Metal Shingles on the Façade

Metal roofing tiles have been gaining popularity due to their longevity and color/finish options. As more architects and contractors choose colored metals, the same question keeps arising: Why choose a beautiful metal tile that is hardly visible on a roof? Aside from its performance, more customers are interested in seeing their products in a more visible space.

The same stamped metal tiles that are installed on a roof can be installed directly to your façade. Adding colorful metal tiles to the wall of a building adds a focal point on any project that is sure to stand out. Building trends are leaning toward a mix of several materials on the façade to add texture and variety. Metal can add a unique effect for a wide range of applications. Metal tiles are available in different shapes and patterns to add character to the build and a unique appearance that cannot be achieved with standard siding.

Incorporating Color with Metal Tiles

It’s not often you see an entire façade wrapped in metal. It is a unique look for a building but does not fit every type of application. Colored metal tiles are most commonly used as an accent or focal point mixed with other exterior materials. Universities often use colored metal to tie into the school colors and add excitement for their students and faculty.

The John Cotton Dana Library at Rutgers University, Newark, N.J., was searching for a colorful metal shingle to make their new library stand out. Burgundy LIC stainless steel was selected for a warm vibrant color that went along with the school color scheme. The beautiful advantage of LIC is shown in a natural range of color as you would see with other materials like brick, stone or wood. Not only does the colorful metal stand out, but it also changes and shifts colors with the light and time of the day. This university library also showcases a cupped tile that adds more depth than a standard metal shingle. Notice how the light plays off the surface of the metal adding a shadow effect with each individual shingle.

Metal is quickly becoming the go-to solution for commercial and residential applications. If you want to prioritize quality and a product that will last the life of your building, the choice becomes easy. The only question left to answer is which type of metal do you want to make your next project stand out from the rest.

George Cibon is marketing manager at Millennium Forms, Elkhorn, Wis. To learn more, visit www.millenniumforms.com[1].

Source URL: https://www.metalconstructionnews.com/articles/metals-versatility/

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