Mad About Metal

Follansbee introduces homeowner website

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 14:36:00 +0000

Follansbee Steel, a leader in metal roofing products and technology, introduces its exclusive website, My Best Roof, which gives every homeowner the opportunity to construct their very own virtual Follansbee roof.

"Follansbee roofing has always been recognized for aesthetic appeal and longevity, which are perfect qualities for any home," says Ed Thomas, vice president and general manager of Follansbee Steel. "It only seems logical to create an easy-to-navigate website specifically for homeowners who would like to experiment before making such an important decision. Now, homeowners have the opportunity to see exactly why a Follansbee roof is the best roof money can buy."

While Follansbee's original website is directed more toward architects and contractors, the new site is geared toward the homeowner. Throughout My Best Roof, homeowners discover full product descriptions, roof comparisons, benefits of going green, an extensive gallery of homes and much more.

The most beneficial aspect of the site is under the "Build Your Own Roof"
section. Homeowners are directed through a three step process to customize the style and color of home and roof they desire. After all options are selected, a finished home appears.

Follansbee produces steel roofing materials coated with patented ZT Alloy.
A specially formulated combination of zinc and tin, ZT Alloy is one of the reasons a Follansbee roof last up to 20 times longer than a run-of-the-mill steel roof, especially in harsh environments. Additionally, the proprietary alloy is responsible for creating the surface patina that gives a Follansbee roof its unique visual characteristics.

Classic acquires Kassel and Irons

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Thu, 03 Apr 2008 13:17:00 +0000

Classic Metal Roofing Systems of Piqua, Ohio, recently acquired the Kassel & Irons business unit from Precoat Metals of St. Louis.

Kassel & Irons is a manufacturer of residential metal roofing with the KasselWood steel shingle roofing system as its flagship product. KasselWood, a past Metal Roofing Magazine Top 10 Product of 2005, combines Precoat�??s unique metal finishing process with precise engineering to create a product known for beauty and durability.

According to Classic president Todd Miller, Kassel & Irons will continue to operate as its own business unit, selling products through independent distributors and dealers worldwide. The KasselWood product consists of 8x40-inch locking steel shingle panels, specially formed and coated to provide homeowners with the look of wood shake roofing. Designed for low weight and strength, KasselWood can be installed over most existing roofs. A full complement of matching accessories completes the system.

�??We are very pleased to have the opportunity to be a part of the future of Kassel & Irons. This acquisition enhances our position as a leader in the manufacturing of specialty residential metal roofing,�?? says Miller. �??The KasselWood product is uniquely positioned in the marketplace due to the beauty and durability achieved with the Precoat finish. We look forward to a long relationship with Precoat continuing to provide coating for this product.�??

MeTecno launches customer newsletter

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Thu, 27 Mar 2008 19:54:00 +0000

MeTecno USA, a worldwide leader in the manufacturing of foam insulated metal and single element panels, launches their quarterly customer newsletter on each of their division's websites this week.

MeTecno is a two-time Metal of Honor winner as voted on by the readers of Metal Roofing Magazine.

The quarterly newsletter, MeTecno News, gives customers the opportunity to stay informed with MeTecno USA. They will be able to learn more about upcoming products, projects, events and other important news from all four MeTecno USA Divisions: API, ASI, Benchmark and Morin.

"The purpose of the newsletter is to keep the lines of communication open between divisions, vendors and most importantly our customers," explains Rachel Scholan, Marketing Manager of MeTecno USA. "Our biggest priority is to keep everyone accurately informed."

MeTecno USA maintains the distinctive ability to provide customers with a variety of insulated composite panels and architectural metal wall and roof building options from multiple plants across the country. Each division offers unique methods technology, products and services, and is available to assist with all of your metal building needs.

ABC Supply: a great workplace winner

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 18:41:00 +0000

For the second consecutive year, ABC Supply Co. has been honored with a Gallup Great Workplace Award. The company is one of only 20 worldwide to receive the 2008 award.

The Gallup Great Workplace Awards recognize the best-performing workforces in the world and are based on the most rigorous workplace research ever conducted. Companies considered for the award were evaluated by a panel of workplace experts, who compared each company�??s results to those of thousands of work teams all over the world, using Gallup�??s massive data base. The 2008 awards will be presented at the Gallup Summit on May 14 in Omaha, Neb.

ABC Supply, also a winner of Metal Roofing Magazine's Metal of Honor in 2008, is among the award winners because its results demonstrate that it has one of the most productive and engaged workforces in the world. Other 2008 winners include such familiar names as The Campbell Soup Company and Marriott Vacation Clubs (also second-year winners), CarMax Inc. and Country Inns & Suites by Carlson.

�??We are humbled to again stand alongside such an outstanding group of companies,�?? says David Luck, chief executive officer and president of ABC Supply. �??This award belongs to our 5,800 associates across the United States. They make ABC Supply a great place to work. They come in every day committed to helping our customers succeed by treating them with respect and making it easy for them to do their jobs.�??

�??It was always Ken Hendricks�?? dream that ABC Supply would become the best company in America to work for,�?? Luck says, referring to ABC Supply�??s founder, who died in December 2007. �??He was so proud to receive this award last year and would have been thrilled to be recognized again. We will accept this award in his honor and celebrate collectively this milestone on the road to achieving his goal.�??

Luma Resources wins big at Roofing Expo

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 15:28:00 +0000

According to Luma Resources, it�??s only a matter of time before solar applications will revolutionize the roofing industry. The sooner roofing contractors see the light, the better off they�??ll be. That�??s the thinking at Luma Resources, a newly formed sister company of Allen Brothers Inc., a multifaceted roofing contractor located in Rochester Hills, Mich. Luma Resources (www.LumaResources.com) was formed in 2007 to market the company�??s recent breakthrough, a solar roof kit designed for residential applications.

Luma Resources was awarded the top prize for Best New Product by attendees at the International Roofing Expo in Las Vegas in February.

Allen hopes their new product will help other roofing contractors and home builders enter the world of solar energy.

The patented solar roof kit system is the brainchild of Gary Allen. With his years of
experience, Gary was able to see the perfect way to marry a solar system compatible with any residential roofing shingle. �??It fits with any metal shingles, cement or clay tile, asphalt shingle, cedar shakes and shingles, slate �?? anything,�?? says Allen. �??All of the solar applications I had seen were vertical, designed to work with standing seam roofs. But that wouldn�??t work in most residential roofs, where almost all of the systems are set up with horizontal lines. I immediately visualized it as a horizontal application on metal panels, with room for the wires to run underneath. The rest of the system and its components were designed over time, along with the method of terminating the sides of the kit.�??

The current solar kit uses thin-film photovoltaic solar cell technology, but can also be adapted to fit other kinds of solar collectors. Luma Resources standard solar kit is designed to generate 1,860-watt of domestic electric per moment. The roof kit consists of 60 solar shingles, the inverter, and all of the flashing and components needed to put the system together. Each metal shingle is 51 1/8 inches long and 15 5/8 inches wide, and the shingles can be installed in one of two configurations: 10 rows of six shingles or 12 rows of five shingles.

Ideal Roofing has new metal shingle

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Mon, 10 Mar 2008 14:22:00 +0000

Ideal Roofing, a Canadian manufacturer of metal roofing, has jumped into the metal shingle market with a new product called Wakefield Bridge.

Wakefield Bridge steel shingles are designed as an alternative to common asphalt shingles, but with the toughness and long-lasting qualities of high-strength steel roofing panels.

With a limited 50-year warranty, Wakefield Bridge steel shingles are manufactured with a stucco-embossed finish for greater strength and a distinguished look �?? available in eight colors to match today�??s popular residential construction cladding materials.

Wakefield Bridge shingles are at least 60 percent lighter than asphalt shingles, concrete and clay tiles, cedar shakes and slate roofing. They are protected by the company�??s proven oven-baked PVDF paint system with Kynar 500 resin and most advanced �??cool roof�?? solar reflection technology ensuring exceptional protection from solar radiation and reducing the cooling load.

Englert, Soprema announce partnership at IRE

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 22:14:00 +0000

Englert and Soprema (USA), two of the nation�??s leading suppliers of roofing systems and materials, announced a strategic alliance to cross sell each other�??s product lines and to offer a single-source warranty that will cover all roofing systems sold and distributed by both companies. The announcement was made at the International Roofing Expo by Englert's Tom Dyszkiewicz and Soprema's Gilbert Lorenzo (pictured).

Englert is an innovator of onsite metal roofing and gutter systems and Soprema is one of the world�??s largest producers of roofing and waterproofing products including SBS modified and liquid roof membranes. The two companies have agreed to jointly market and promote their respective product lines, particularly to contractors, architects and building owners who are incorporating metal and membrane as the roofing system for a single project.

The alliance will be supported by a single-source weather tightness warranty backed by both companies that will protect both metal and membrane systems for a period up to 20 years.

�??Soprema is excited to enter into this relationship. We have been impressed by Englert�??s dedication to quality and customer service and believe our joint efforts will offer a greater benefit to our customers,�?? says Lorenzo, vice president/general manager of Soprema. �??Teaming up with Englert is a natural fit as we both carry quality, premium products; both companies are greatly respected in the roofing industry and we share the same family-owned values.�??

�??We are delighted to be allied with SOPREMA, a world leader in research and development, particularly for modified bitumen,�?? says Deborah Tripod, chief executive officer of Englert. �??Our alliance meets the needs of owners and architects who are looking to suppliers like Englert and Soprema to bring them peace of mind on their investments with a single point of contact and coverage of critical transition areas.�??

Richard McKuhen, owner of Total Roofing Systems, Inc., in Port St. Lucie, Florida, where he has been installing both Englert and SOPREMA products for more than 15 years, commented on the alliance. "This is a very good, proactive venture on the part of Englert and Soprema. By joining together and offering a single source warranty, they are creating a comfort zone and a simpler path for architects and owners with not only the ability to follow up when there is a need, but also by using a single roofing contractor who is certified by both of these manufacturers. This will help to eliminate a possible finger pointing situation and gives the designer a more secure basis for specifying the two products together on a single project, where a long term warranty is desired."

Plenty of friends attend Roofing Expo

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 14:36:00 +0000

A lot of people say they're tired of Las Vegas, but the International Roofing Expo was able to pull in another good crowd for its show at the Las Vegas Convention Center last week (February 21-23).

Archie Manning, who now is probably more famous for being the father of Peyton and Eli than for his own NFL quarterbacking days, helped kick off the event with his keynote address just before the opening of the show. Manning related his playing experiences to everyday life and shared several humorous stories with the standing-room-only crowd. When he was finished, he tossed a couple of footballs out into the audience �?? probably the best receivers he played with.

The trade show floor was busy on opening day. We had a chance to visit with a lot of friends located in the Metal Marketplace with the Metal Roofing Magazine booth. We met some folks we've only communicated with via email and telephones and made some new friends, many with good things to say about Metal Roofing Magazine. One reader told us he thought of Metal Roofing Magazine as the USA Today of the industry.

The show floor also featured a New Products Pavilion where attendees on their favorite new product introduced in the last year - they selected Luma Resources. Luma Resources offers solar kits that can be applied to any roof system and uses photovoltaic cells that provide electricity throughout the day. Everyone is dazzled by solar!

Traffic appeared to be way down the final day - in fact, Kyler Pope from our magazine had a chance to play a little pinball at the Englert booth. He walked away with the second highest score.

All in all, we had a good show and picked up a lot of ideas for the rest of the year so stay tuned. Maybe we'll get a pinball machine here in the office.

Shepherd rolls out 'cool" green colors

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:11:00 +0000

The Shepherd Color Company introduces Dynamix Green 30C612 and Dymamix Green 30C678, unique and innovative �??stir-in�?? inorganic color pigments to the coatings market.

Dymamix Green 30C612, C.I. Pigment Green 50 is yellow-shade green and Dymamix Green 30C678, C.I. Pigment Green 26 is a dark green. Both new green pigments are also part of the Arctic range for coatings and can be used widely in color matches to maximize total solar reflectance (TSR), minimize heat build up and reduce overall energy costs.

More than 20 years of IR reflective pigment development coupled with the new Dymamix technology assures unsurpassed technical expertise from Shepherd.

Dymamix dispersion characteristics are so superior, conventional milling and dispersion techniques are unnecessary. Dymamix �??stir-in�?? pigment technology requires only simple mixing. The time it takes to reach complete dispersion will depend upon the intensity of the mixing equipment but can be achieved in as little as 5 minutes. Dymamix is unique because it is not restricted in application. It is compatible with solvent and waterborne coatings systems as well as 100 percent solids systems and UV cured coatings.

Dymamix offers chemists, formulators and colorists the potential to be creative in their approach to coatings development. Color can be added at any stage. The color and tint strength properties are �??locked-in�?? and can be achieved consistently. There are no dispersants or additional resins to formulate around; Dymamix is 100 percent color. The weather durability, heat stability and chemical resistance you have come to expect from Shepherd pigments is assured with Dymamix.

Shepherd�??s Arctic pigments reflect the infrared portion of the sun�??s light. Because IR light contributes greatly towards heat build up, coatings made with Arctic pigments reduce the temperature of products that are exposed to the sun �?? without sacrificing color! This can extend product life, cool interior spaces or contents, retard coating degradation, or mimic the spectral properties of foliage for military camouflage.

Arctic pigments are used in Energy Star compliant roof coatings, automotive exteriors and interiors, protective coatings, camouflage paints and more.

MCA announces President's Award winners

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Thu, 07 Feb 2008 15:31:00 +0000

I managed to escape the cold weather of the Midwest last week to attend the 2008 Metal Construction Association annual meeting in Marco Island, Fla. It's a tough job, but someone has to do it, right?

The MCA recognized winners of its 2007 President�??s Awards, an annual designation given to top projects involving MCA members. The awards honor innovation and encourage creativity while showing how MCA members�?? products help achieve all types of wonderful designs.

Two awards were presented for metal roofing specifically: The Gregory Residence, Woodland Falls, NY, residential; and Teton Science Schools, Jackson, WY, roofing.

Other metal projects receiving the respective MCA 2007 President�??s Awards were: Marina Condos, Madison, WI, overall excellence; Dallas Executive Airport, Dallas, TX, commercial-industrial; and Stockton Arena, Stockton, CA, municipal-institutional.

Residential
An interesting metal roof adds new appeal to the Gregory residence in Highland Falls, NY, an historic village on the banks of the Hudson River near West Point Military Academy. The roof is made from more than 1,100 square feet of Castle Top, diamond shaped shingles from ATAS International Inc., Allentown, PA. These shingles are often used to preserve the historic look of a building and to provide interesting patterns.

The 16-by-16-inch squares made of .032 aluminum are applied in alternating colors of classic bronze and medium bronze and have a Kynar 500 coating. Metal roofing installer was Double RA Construction Corp., Rye Brook, NY. General contractor on the project was Tim Brennan General Contractor, Cold Spring, NY.

Roofing
The new 800-acre Jackson, WY campus of the Teton Science Schools, a non-profit organization internationally recognized for educating and training students of all ages about nature, sports the winning roof design. The project was planned to have a low impact on the area and on the environment, so metal was the natural choice for the roof and parts of the exterior walls based on life-cycle costs, low maintenance, and appearance.

SuperLok standing seam panels from Houston-based MBCI were chosen as the sole roofing material for this massive project. More than 73,000 square feet of panels were formed from 22-gauge Galvalume with a fluoropolymer paint finish with a Zactique II treatment to give it a weathered appearance. The campus sits on the edge of a national forest and houses administrative headquarters, a pre-kindergarten through 12th grade school, a teacher learning center, a conservation research building and meeting space. So the high level of fire protection provided by the metal roofing was very important. For added protection, metal wall panels by AEP Span and fireproof HardiPlank siding were used on the walls. The same AEP Span metal panels were also used on low slope porch roofs.

Metal panel installer was Salt River Roofing, Afton, WY. The general contractor was Zaist Construction Management, Teton Village, WY. Architects of this winning project were MITHUN of Seattle, WA, and Hawtin Jorgensen Architects of Jackson, WY.

Learn on the Roofing Expo trade show floor

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Mon, 04 Feb 2008 16:42:00 +0000

With more options than ever before, roofing professionals attending the 2008 International Roofing Expo will have an array of exciting, action-packed show floor educational opportunities and pavilions to choose from. Being held February 21-23, the show will take place in the South Halls at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

"We are thrilled to be able to provide so many options at this year's show," said Donna Bellantone, show director. "These options give the show a more action-oriented, hands-on format, giving attendees a chance to actively participate in the event."

Metal Marketplace
This special pavilion showcases the leading companies offering metal products, services and technologies. Attendees can compare features and benefits to find the products that best fit their needs, all in one dedicated section of the show. The Metal Marketplace is 17 percent larger than last year. Participating exhibitors include AppliCad, Architectural Metal Specialties, ASC Building Products/AEP Span, ATAS International, Berger Building Products, Berridge Manufacturing, Building Products Development, Central States Manufacturing, Colbond, Custom-Bilt Metals, Developmental Industries, Drexel Metals, Dynamic Fastener, eco-structure, Englert, Fabral, Follansbee Steel, GSSI Sealants, ITW Buildex, Level Rite Ladder Safety Tools, LUMA Resources, Marion Manufacturing, MBCI, McElroy Metal, Metal Construction Association, Metal Construction News, Metal Roofing Alliance, Metal Roofing Magazine, Metal Sales, metalmag, Metals USA Building Products, Metl-Span, Metro Roof Products, Nemco �?? Lemminkainen, Revere Copper, RKW US, Roof Hugger, S-5!, Sheffield Metals, Topps Products, To-Scale Software, Triangle Fastener, Umicore Building Products/VM Zinc and Union Corrugating.

Live Demonstrations
Located in booth 2501, a series of Live Demonstrations will be offered Thursday and Friday. Attendees will be able to see first-hand the latest roofing equipment, materials and techniques �?? and learn how to use, sell and install them for maximum profitability and effectiveness. Each Live Demonstration is 45 minutes in length and bleacher seating is provided.

Exhibitor Product Clinics
Select exhibitors will present their own demonstration of their equipment, tools and materials through Exhibitor Product Clinics. Demonstrating how easy it is to use their products, the clinics will be presented by DCI Products, DuPont, EternaBond, Grace, OMG and USG, and will cover attic ventilation, sealed attic system, roof repairs, weather resistive barriers, roof boards, automated insulation fastening system, insulation adhesive and non-penetrating fastening system.

New Product Pavilion
Offering attendees a glimpse of the newest product lines, innovative styles and emerging trends changing the face of the industry, the New Product Pavilion is the latest addition to the show floor. Located on the show floor in booth 1725, this area will only display products that have been introduced since the 2007 Expo in March.

Who makes this exact 5v profile?

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 19:58:00 +0000

A New Jersey reader of Metal Roofing Magazine is looking for a little help. He's got me stumped so I'm going to the World Wide Web for help.

John is having a hard time finding a 5v crimp panel to match the profile on his barn - shown here - he guesses was built in the late 50s or early 60s. The five "Vs" are not as sharp as current profiles and the two Vs that overlap (making the siphon channel in the lower panel) the adjacent panel are not cut deep into a v, but have a softer, u-shaped profile.

Does it look familiar? Who manufactures this panel or makes the machine that does? John wants to replace some of the panels, but not all of them. The 5v crimp panels he has found are not identical and don't look good overlapping his original panels (bottom).

If you can help at all, please send an email to me at jim.austin@fwpubs.com.

Thanks for your help and thanks for checking out Mad About Metal!

Centria receives $300,000 grant

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 14:07:00 +0000

Congressman Tim Murphy presented the employees of Centria with $300,000 in federal funds during a ceremonial check presentation. The funds, which help further Centria's commitment to sustainability and green building practices, will assist in the development of integrated solar building panels.

"We�??re very pleased that Congressman Murphy and others in government not only recognize the importance of sustainable design, but also that Centria is an industry leader in this effort,�?? said Rick Mowrey, director of marketing and business development. �??These funds will help us complete research and development, engineering standards and commercialization of BIPV (Building-Integrated Photovoltaics) for Standing Seam Metal Roofs. These standards will be available for all Metal Roof Manufacturers and Contractors which will speed adoption of Solar Power as an alternative energy."

BIPV Solar Energy Systems combine lightweight, flexible and durable solar panels into one single roofing product that can be used to replace existing roofs or for new construction. It will be used as a national model in providing high-performance, energy-efficient buildings created with the power of the sun. As the designer of the system, Centria is helping to lead the industry in the development of environmentally friendly alternative energy sources.

�??As the nation searches for new, alternative sources of energy, Southwestern Pennsylvania will continue to be a leader in developing the technology,�?? said Congressman Murphy, a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. �??We have a dedicated workforce, a strong base of technology and energy firms, and universities to train scientists and engineers. The Building-Integrated Photovoltaic Solar Energy System which these funds will help create is one of the many advanced energy projects being developed in the region.�??

Congressman Murphy obtained the funds as part of the 2008 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act which passed the House of Representatives in July of 2007 and was later included in the omnibus spending bill which became law this past December.

Drexel Metals brings on Hennessy

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Fri, 11 Jan 2008 18:09:00 +0000

Drexel Metals, Ivyland, Pa., recently announced that Patrick Hennessey, a 20-year veteran of the building materials industry, has been retained to develop a new sales structure and �??go to market�?? strategy.

Brian Partyka, president of Drexel says, �??His enthusiasm along with the combination of his experience in the commercial market segment and sales management is precisely what we need as we expand our business. Drexel is embarking on a business expansion designed to add value to our customers�?? business and further our leadership in the industry�?? Partyka adds.

International Roofing Expo goes digital

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 20:33:00 +0000

The International Roofing Expo is right around the corner. If you're looking to learn more about what it's all about, review the digital brochure for more details on:

�?? Exhibitors

�?? Conference Program

�?? Show Floor Highlights

�?? Registration

�?? Housing & Travel

See new products. Stay on top of the trends. Talk to the experts. Compare brands, quality and price. Make the smart buying decisions that will increase your sales year-round �?? only at the 2008 International Roofing Expo.

ABC Supply Mourns Loss of Ken Hendricks

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 20:59:00 +0000

A press release from ABC Supply on the passing of founder Ken Hendricks:

BELOIT, Wis. -- It is with great sadness that we share the news that Ken Hendricks, founder, chairman and chief executive officer of ABC Supply, passed away early Friday morning, December 21. He suffered a massive head injury as a result of a fall at a construction site at his home Thursday evening and died in surgery. He was 66 years old.

This is an enormous tragedy and a great loss to the family, associates, and the community. Right now, we are focused on working through the initial impact of this tragedy with primary focus on the Hendricks family, as we keep them in our hearts, thoughts and prayers.

Further information and funeral arrangements are pending and details will be announced at a later time.

BlueScope acquires IMSA Steel Group

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Thu, 20 Dec 2007 14:53:00 +0000

Another major transaction in the steel world.

BlueScope Steel Limited today announced its subsidiary, BlueScope Steel North America Corporation, has agreed to acquire the outstanding shares of IMSA Steel Corp for $730 million from Ternium S.A. The acquisition is subject to normal regulatory approval and is expected to be completed by early 2008. The latest consolidated sales of the group for 2006 was approximately $1.2 billion, with EBITDA of $86 million.

IMSA Steel Corp has four distinct businesses with manufacturing facilities throughout the United States and sales throughout North America:

Varco Pruden Buildings Inc. (�??VP�??) �?? a leading North American manufacturer of pre-engineered building systems for the non-residential market with five manufacturing facilities. It has a total processing capacity of approximately 210,000 tons per annum.

Steelscape - a leading west coast producer of metal coated and painted steel coils with three production facilities. Steelscape has a total capacity of approximately 500,000 tons per annum of metal coated steel products and 350,000 tons per annum of painting capacity.

Metl-Span �?? a leading North American manufacturer of insulated steel panels for commercial, industrial and cold storage buildings. Metl-Span has five production facilities across the United States.

ASC Profiles �?? a leading North American manufacturer of building components including architectural roof and wall systems and structural roof and floor decking. ASC has ten production facilities located primarily in the western U.S.

BlueScope Steel Managing Director and CEO, Mr Paul O�??Malley, said: �??This acquisition greatly accelerates BlueScope Steel�??s North American strategy allowing us to significantly broaden our scope and geographic reach. It fits squarely with the BlueScope blueprint announced on 29 November by giving the company an expanded presence in North American building products and solutions markets.

�??The acquisition will significantly develop our downstream North American multi-brand, multichannel strategy. BlueScope Steel expects to realise approximately US$40m p.a. of synergies within three years.�??

O�??Malley added, �??This acquisition builds on our existing highly successful pre-engineered buildings business, Butler Manufacturing, and makes BlueScope Steel a leader in the North American steel building and construction market.

�??This acquisition will deliver significant value creation opportunities in North America and provide us with excellent assets and a strong base on the west coast of the United States," says Brian Krueger, president BlueScope Steel North America, Corporate Strategy and Innovation. �??BlueScope Steel knows the IMSA Steel business and its markets well. BHP Billiton, from which BlueScope Steel was de-merged, used to own Steelscape and ASC Profiles prior to their sale in 2000 to Grupo IMSA. IMSA Steel is an excellent strategic fit with our businesses in North America.�??

�??Butler Manufacturing and VP Buildings are two highly respected brands in the North American PEB market. The acquisition will provide a platform to expand our footprint into the components market in North America with the ability to cross-sell ASC products to our Butler Builder distribution channel. Metl-Span provides an entry point into the high growth insulated panels market.�??

�??This transaction will create many flow-on benefits to other parts of BlueScope Steel. For example, we will be looking at opportunities to optimise the value chain benefits of sourcing Steelscape hot rolled coil feedstock requirements from BlueScope Steel�??s Port Kembla Steelworks.�??

BlueScope Steel has agreed to pay a break fee of US$20m to Ternium S.A. if the acquisition agreement is terminated in certain circumstances.

Metal roofing a target for thieves

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 13:50:00 +0000

According to a story we found on sootoday.com, the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service and Crime Stoppers are seeking the public�??s assistance in solving vandalism and theft on Creek Road.

On November 1, damage was discovered to a log cabin on Creek Road. All the windows were removed and smashed and doors were damaged. The flooring was ripped out.

Unknown persons attempted to remove the metal roofing, probably to sell to recyclers, but were unsuccessful. (Photo from www.sootoday.com)

It appears that all terrain vehicles were used to remove building material.

The damage is estimated at approximately $10,000.

Guard your metal!

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 20:32:00 +0000

Keep an eye on your metal - you never know who else has an eye on it. Or worse yet, a slippery hand.

We've been reading a lot lately about metal roofing and gutter materials being stolen by someone looking to make a quick buck selling it to a recycler. According to theglobeandmail.com, about $180,000 in stolen metal manufactured to be used for the roof of the Vancouver Trade and Convention Centre was recently recovered! That's a lot of roofing!

Police say the metal was found at an Abbotsford recycling business. The metal was reported missing by the owner of Deelite Welding in Surrey on Sept. 17.

Earlier, 52-year-old Kenneth Howard Moon of Langley was charged with theft over $5,000 in the metal's disappearance.

RHEINZINK selected twice for same project

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 14:36:00 +0000

Seeing the impressive nature and beauty of his nearly-complete 10,000 square foot hillside home in West Vancouver, British Columbia, the owner decided to recreate the design after the original structure was destroyed by fire.

Approximately 2,000 square feet of RHEINZINK 24-gauge Double Lock standing seam roof panels and 2,000 square feet of RHEINZINK 22-gauge S-Lock wall panels were integral to the design. Both systems were finished in Preweathered Pro Blue Gray.

The RHEINZINK standing seam roofing and fascia system articulates the massing according to Canadian architect Michel Coutya practicing in Vancouver. The standing seam technique scales the components and softens the edges. �??The curvilinear architecture flows from the site configuration, its sloping topography and a stunning city view,�?? according to Coutya. �??The design was enhanced by the beauty and flexibility of the RHEINZINK which is also known for its durability and workability.http://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gif�??

Fabrication and installation of the RHEINZINK panels was done by TV Metals, Coquitlam, British Columbia.

�??The characteristics that RHEINZINK offered were ideal for this application,�?? reports Georg Koslowski, RHEINZINK�??s director of technical services-Canada. �??The owner, architect and installer all saw the impact of the nearly-completed original residence. There was no question about duplicating it and adding more zinc to define the soffits.�??

For more information on RHEINZINK, visit .

Roofing Expo scores TD with headline speaker

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Tue, 06 Nov 2007 20:11:00 +0000

Former NFL quarterback Archie Manning will deliver the keynote address during the 2008 International Roofing Expo at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas.

Held prior to the opening of the show, Manning's �??Principles for Success,�?? will take place on Thursday, February 21, from 9:45 am to 10:45 am at the Renaissance Hotel Ballroom, located directly across from the Convention Center.

During his presentation, Manning will discuss the principles he used throughout his career for success, including developing an attitude of leadership, depending on others, being flexible and playing the game.

"Many similarities exist between what it takes to succeed in football and what it takes to succeed in the challenging roofing marketplace," said Donna Bellantone, director of the International Roofing Expo. "As a proven leader, Manning will provide attendees with a wealth of inspiration and business advice that will help them become more focused on achieving their peak performance."

Manning completed an outstanding 15-year National Football League career in 1985, having played 12 seasons for the New Orleans Saints, followed by brief stints with the Houston Oilers and Minnesota Vikings. He was voted the NFC's Offensive Player of the Year in 1978 and participated in two Pro Bowls.

Manning was an All-American quarterback at the University of Mississippi and was the second player chosen in the 1971 NFL draft. He is the only Ole Miss player to have his number retired and he was the first player in Saints history inducted into the Louisiana Superdome Wall of Fame.

The Manning family has become a football dynasty and is often referred to as "football's royal family" because three members have played quarterback in the NFL. Archie�??s son, Peyton, is the quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts and was named MVP of Super Bowl XLI, as well as MVP of the NFL in 2003 and 2004. Manning�??s son, Eli, is the quarterback of the New York Giants and was the number one selection in the 2004 NFL Draft. Cooper, the oldest of the Manning boys and the only non-professional athlete, lives in New Orleans and trades oil and gas stocks. Manning co-authored Manning: A Father, His Sons and A Football Legacy, with Peyton in 2000.

Targeted topics highlight '08 Int'l Roofing Expo

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Mon, 05 Nov 2007 21:46:00 +0000

It's never to early to start planning your next trip to Las Vegas!

Roofing professionals wanting to expand their expertise and fine-tune their skills should plan to attend the 2008 International Roofing Expo, February 21-23, in the South Halls at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

With 48 sessions, the conference program features seven educational tracks addressing key roofing segments, including Technical, General Business, Leadership/Management, Legal/HR, Sales and Service, Money Matters and Workplace Safety.

The target audience includes commercial/residential/metal contractors
(46 sessions); owners/CEOs/general managers (41 sessions); superintendents/foremen (29 sessions); architects/designers/consultants (28 sessions); salesmen/estimators (25 sessions); manufacturers/suppliers (25 sessions); and building owners/facility managers (22 sessions).

Of the 48 sessions, 90 feature feature new topics, with five of last year�??s most popular sessions repeated due to high demand. In addition, the Spouse Program offers 23 sessions for the involved spouses who are looking for ways to help manage and grow their family businesses.

"Our educational conference program is designed to provide the latest trends, innovations and business practices that define today�??s thriving roofing industry," said Donna Bellantone, Director of the International Roofing Expo. �??Our relevant, up-to-date content will help attendees build their businesses, increase profits and advance their careers.�??

Noteworthy technical sessions related to metal roofing include �??Green Buildings: Opportunities for the Roofing Industry,�?? �??Photovoltaics and You,�?? �??Understanding Metal Roofing,�?? �??Cool Roofs for Steep Slope Applications �?? Making your Green Building Design a Reality,�?? and �??Metal Roofing: Devil�??s in the Details.�??

Strategic business-related sessions include �??Determining Your Real Labor Costs: Are you really charging enough?�?? �??Startling New Trends in Immigration Enforcement & How to Protect your Business,�?? �??Stop Working For Your Business �?? Work On Your Business,�?? �??How to Motivate Today�??s Construction Worker,�?? and �??Increasing Profits from Current Customers.�??

Attendees can save money by registering before January 8, 2008. Online registration is available 24-hours a day, seven days a week. For more information regarding registration, visit www.TheRoofingExpo.com.

Petersen roof should be last on Florida home

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 16:28:00 +0000

Metal is a permanent solution.

After the original shake shingles sustained significant storm damage, the owner of an upscale residence in Orlando wanted a new metal roof installed that would be �??the last roof we put on this house.�?? Approximately 12,000 square feet of Petersen Snap-Clad panels were installed to meet the owner�??s objective.

The Snap-Clad system has been designed for architectural aesthetics and structural performance and meets Florida�??s Building Code and Miami-Dade NOA standards for wind-uplift resistance.

The 16-inch wide, 24-gauge galvanized steel panels were finished in Copper Penny. Approximately 4,000 square feet of PAC-Clad flat stock was used for flashings and gutters on the project.

Installation of the Petersen panels was done by RAE CO of Ocala, Ocala, Fla.

Centria partners with United Solar Ovonics

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 21:52:00 +0000

Centria, a Pennsylvania-based commercial building products leader, announced its Centria Services Group Division has signed a non-exclusive, OEM purchase agreement for Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) for the non-residential metal standing seam roofing industry with United Solar Ovonic, a wholly owned subsidiary of Energy Conversion Devices.

Photovoltaics (PV) is a solar power technology that uses solar cells to convert light from the sun into electricity. A BIPV system integrates these elements into the building envelope, such as the roof or the facade. By concurrently serving as building envelope material and power generator, BIPV systems provide savings in materials and electricity costs, reduce use of fossil fuels and the release of ozone depleting gases and can add to the aesthetic appeal of a building.

As part of the agreement, United Solar Ovonic will supply its proven thin-film photovoltaic product, branded Uni-Solar, and Centria Services Group will provide its engineering and systems integration technology, resulting in the development of BIPV systems standards for all standing seam manufacturers. The alliance positions Centria Services Group as the turnkey solutions provider for standing seam manufacturers as they look for a BIPV System to brand, manufacture and sell as their own.

�??For five years now, we�??ve tracked the technology, market pricing and adoption rates and feel now�??s the time to establish standards for BIPV standing seam,�?? said Rick Mowrey, director of marketing and business development for Centria Services Group.

"Needless to say, with rising energy costs, architects and owners agree. This partnership represents a great step in industry progress, as research confirms United Solar Ovonic�??s thin-film PV technology is a perfect fit for standing seam metal roofing."

METALCON rocks!

noreply@blogger.com (Jim Austin) — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 12:29:00 +0000

Phew! The 17th annal METALCON International trade show and convention proved once again to be an incredible experience. Who would think you could enjoy three days in Las Vegas without ever leaving the Hilton Hotel or the Las Vegas Convention Center? I know I did.

It's a great time for us here at Metal Roofing Magazine and Rural Builder magazine to visit with industry friends �?? from manufacturers to the nail bangers out in the field. We had a lot of traffic at our booth, hopefully not all because we were a sponsor in the Win-A-Truck promotion.

Either way - if and when you get a chance to attend METALCON - be it for the trade show exhibit, the seminars or the networking - get there. Make plans for next year - in Baltimore, October 1-3.