How to choose the right metal gauge

By ASC Building Products. 

Knowing which gauge of metal needed is pivotal for a roofing project as it can make or break the success of the installation.  

When it comes to installing metal roofing and siding, having a basic understanding of gauge is necessary to ensure the success of the project at hand. And here at ASC Building Products, we know metal gauge. This article outlines key information necessary to select the right metal gauge and the various factors to consider when selecting the right one. If you find you want more information, seeking guidance from technical experts (like us) is highly recommended. 

Why is metal roofing and metal siding popular? 

Roofing and siding are exposed to a variety of weather conditions, so they must be tough and durable. The strength and durability of metal roofing and siding can allow your investment to last up to 50 years. Metal panels offer you different style options, blend well with traditional materials and can increase the value of the property. Furthermore, painted metal panels have reflective properties that can reduce energy costs by minimizing heat absorption by the metal surface. 

What does the gauge of a metal panel mean? 

• Gauge refers to the thickness of metal roofing or siding panels. It represents a nominal decimal range. So, metal panels with the same gauge can have a slightly different thickness; this creates a noticeable difference in panel sturdiness. ASC Building Products’ metal panels come in 22, 24, 26 and 29-gauge, with 22-gauge being the thickest and 29-gauge the thinnest. 
• So what gauge is right for your home or project? Well, it comes down to a variety of considerations you need to take a look at before you answer that question. Considerations in choosing the right gauge for your home include: 
• Weather Resistance 
• Cost 
• Material 

Weather resistance 

• The gauge of the metal panel influences the ability of the material to withstand severe weather conditions. In areas prone to high wind and hailstorm, the use of a 29-gauge metal roofing for homes is not recommended. Thicker metal roofing panels such as a 24-gauge should be used instead. 
• Hailstones can also cause aesthetic and functional damage to a roof. The extent of the damage depends on the slope of the roof. Low-slope roofs tend to receive more damage than steep-slope roofs as the greatest damage occurs at a 90-degree angle of impact. Thinner panels can be easily dented and will have a shorter service life when exposed to such weather conditions. 

Cost 

• One factor affecting the cost of metal panels is the gauge. Simply put, thicker panels cost more than thinner panels. The price of a 26-gauge product is about 15% higher than that of a 29-gauge. Thicker panels are stronger, but they are not always the best option for achieving increased strength. Before spending extra money, consider the overall building construction and location.  

Material 

• Thicker panels are recommended for areas that experience extreme weather conditions because they are less likely to be damaged; however, the durability of thicker panels can also be achieved by using materials with lower costs. Metal panels are available in copper, aluminum, zinc and steel. 
• Steel is the least expensive among the metals used for metal roofing and metal siding, therefore, it has become the best option for many homeowners. The use of steel with higher gauges is more cost-effective than using thicker panels of copper, aluminum, and zinc. And of course steel is a sustainable option as it’s 100% recyclable at the end of its lifespan. Check out our page on Sustainability to learn more and read about the potential residential metal roof tax credit! 
• ASC Building Products offers a wide selection of products for the exterior design of residential, commercial and agricultural constructions, including metal roofing and siding. We assure homeowners of excellent quality products.  

When should you choose the thicker panel? (And why)? 

Although thicker panels are stronger, this extra strength is not always necessary. Different factors will determine what is necessary for the building. For instance, the type of building construction in the location of the building will change how much strength is needed. 

When should you choose the thinner panel? (And why)? 

The most common type of sheathing is plywood covered by a weather-resistant barrier, with metal panels attached to hold it in place. If the sheathing doesn’t have much structural importance, 29-gauge panels work well. Of course, this type of sheathing arrangement is only appropriate for areas that don’t often face harsh weather conditions. If you live in an area where there are frequent storms, you should choose a more durable type of metal panel. 

In conclusion, gauge really is a simple, yet critical item to consider when selecting metal panels for your new roof or siding. Be sure to consider your environment, temperature ranges, moisture and roof slope before deciding on a proper gauge.  

Original article source: ACS Building Products