ABC Announces New 138T Symmetrical Panel System
Lower-Profile Product Is Ideal For Steep-Sloped Applications
Houston, TX – With the introduction of their 238T Symmetrical Panel System, Architectural Building Components believed they had found a “Clearly Better” solution for low-slope metal retrofit and reroofing applications. And with their latest product, the newly introduced 138T, they now have a “Clearly Better” metal roofing solution for steep-slope new construction too.
“We listened to the problems with typical standing seam metal roofing and offer a “Clearly Better” solution,” said Charlie Smith, president of Architectural Building Components. “Our veteran 238T is an ideal panel for low slope retrofitting and reroofing, however the new 138T’s lower profile makes it a more aesthetically appealing option for steep slope new construction. Symmetrical panel systems are clearly better than standard asymmetrical systems. By expanding ABC's symmetrical product line, the opportunities for standing seam metal roofing multiply.”
According to Smith, asymmetrical panels have long been problematic because of the time and money associated with permanent seam problems, as well as the watertight complications of the clip and sealant discontinuity. Symmetrical Systems, on the other hand, are better because of their individual panel replaceability, superior weather-tight performance and efficient installation benefits.
INDIVIDUAL PANEL REPLACEABILITY
The most measurable benefit of ABC’s symmetrical panel design, according to the company, is individual panel replaceability and repairability. Structural metal panels have historically been un-modifiable due to their asymmetrical design and permanent 180-degree mechanical seaming that occurs to make the roof watertight. Since symmetrical panels have no interlocking seams, only one panel needs to be removed for repairs. The design also gives installers better control over where panels can be installed. Installation of the panels can begin in the middle or on different parts of the roof at the same time. This can drastically reduce the total labor time required to complete the installation.
SUPERIOR WEATHERTIGHT PERFORMANCE
• Watertight Seam
In standard asymmetrical panel systems, the clip is not continuously sealed at the top of the seam. This sealant discontinuity creates a vulnerable opportunity for roof leaks,” Smith points out. By contrast, ABC’s 138T & 238T Symmetrical Systems each have a seam in the form of a “T” with two beads of continuous factory applied sealant. Once installed, this two-piece design provides an uninterrupted seal at the top of the seam, ensuring that there will be no break in the sealant at the clips. For further prevention of leaks, the symmetrical panel design allows installers to work around roof penetrations in order to secure a weather-tight curb solution as well.
• Insulating Airspace
Both Symmetrical Systems are composed of a two-piece mechanically seamed standing seam roof panel with a 3/8” insulating airspace between the deck and panel system. This airspace helps to reduce the transfer of hot or cold air into the building.
• Unlimited Thermal Movement
The entire Symmetrical System works collectively to adjust with the expansion and contraction that is typical of a metal roof as it is exposed to a range of temperatures.
• Unmatched Wind Uplift
The symmetrical design also performs so well in uplift testing that, in many instances, no additional framing is required to meet wind load criteria in a re-roof or retrofit application. This valuable, money-saving capability is not available with many other metal roofing systems, especially in coastal windstorm zones.
EFFICIENT INSTALLATION
ABC’s 138T system is an excellent option for new construction on solid deck applications with slopes of 2:12 and greater. Similarly, the 238T system is ideal for retrofitting or new construction on a broad range of substrate applications, including open-framing, with slopes as low as ¼:12. Symmetrical Panel Systems provide for a clean & efficient installation. Since the clip is not seamed (only the “T” cap), there is no time spent on pre-tonging clips. With the panel’s symmetrical shape, the clips can be pre-installed to further reduce labor time and costs.
For a free demonstration of the new 138T Symmetrical Panel System, contact Architectural Building Components today.
About Architectural Building Components
Architectural Building Components, a division of McElroy Metal, is one of the country’s leading innovators and manufacturers of metal roofing and siding solutions. For more than 20 years, Architectural Building Components has provided low-slope and steep-slope roofing, metal re-roofing, retro-fitting and new metal roof construction designed to save money and minimize upkeep. Headquartered in Houston, Architectural Building Components has developed products such as the uniquely designed 238T & new 138T symmetrical standing seam panel systems, as well as Archzilla® - jobsite manufacturing truck- to serve the complex roofing needs in the educational, healthcare, government, liturgical, entertainment, retail and service industries. For more information about the company, visit www.archmetalroof.com.