Balancing Aesthetics with Functionality

When it comes to building materials, consumers can now choose from a far wider range of options that include economical architectural metal panels. In the past,  traditional exterior materials were comprised of stone, brick or wood. The popularity of exterior metals is increasing. over the past few decades for many reasons, including cost, performance, durability and a wide array of surface aspects. The following are just a few of the benefits of  architectural metal panels.

Greater Versatility

Architectural metal panels can be solid or perforated. The sturdy construction and stability of these materials enable their use as protective cladding over wood or gypsum substrates. You can mount some systems, such as insulated metal panels, directly to studs without needing extra sheathing, insulation, or waterproofing components. For parking garages, metal panels with perforated slots shield the structure from rain while facilitating air circulation. You can install them around patios for stylish protection, and the solid panels serve as durable wall cladding that enhances the structure’s aesthetics for many years. With the ability to bend the metal into countless shapes, architects can plan more interesting buildings with waved walls, sculpted edges and other modern designs.

Energy Efficiency and Insulation

Newly released building codes and standards are calling for more stringent requirements for exterior insulation. The majority of metal panels, including single-skin and metal composite, add no insulating value to the assembly. Insulated metal panels (IMPs) include a factory foamed-in-place core, minimizing insulation gaps, along with a thermal break between the face and the metal liner. With CENTRIA’s Formawall Dimension Series insulated metal panel system, the panels offer superior weather resistance by utilizing pressure equalization along the length of the horizontal joinery. CENTRIA’s ATMP® technology allows Formawall Dimension Series to provide superior thermal and moisture protection. CENTRIA products helped Rush University Medical Center Orthopedic Ambulatory Building (OAB) become Chicago’s first LEED® Gold certified healthcare facility. Read this and other case studies to learn more.

Using insulated metal roofing and wall panels can reduce the heat island effect. Although the metal itself is a conductor of heat, its solar reflective value can offset heat gain. A thermally broken, insulated system offers increased R value to the exterior wall assembly.

Minimize Seams for Greater Protection

Many commercial metal panel systems have undergone testing to surpass the latest wind load performance standards.Reducing the number of seams can lead to less uplift potential and also minimizes the risk or water intrusion when heavy rains and high winds are moving through the area.

Less Maintenance and Long-Term Savings

Metal panels require very little maintenance. Unlike other wall claddings, you can power wash most metal panels when they need cleaning. They’re available in painted and unpainted options. Painted versions may require maintenance over the years, but no one will ever need to treat the unpainted options. Materials like zinc in metal panels naturally change color when exposed to the elements, forming a protective patina. The best part is that options like zinc and copper never need painting to keep them looking great. Business owners appreciate this for the impressive savings it offers them in paint, repairs and replacements.

There are many benefits to choosing architectural metal panels. At Wade Architectural Systems, we offer a host of exterior metal panel solutions to architects, contractors and owners. We can provide budgetary pricing to the design and construction team for an array of options that can suit any budget, exceed performance requirements and suit aesthetic tastes.

Want to use economical architectural metal panels your next project? Work with Wade Architectural Systems today.