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Benefits of specifying insulated metal panels

Oct. 9, 2019
3 min read

When it comes to specifying building materials, we know you have options, but when it comes to your next project or retrofit, there are benefits of insulated metal panels (IMPs) that will take your commercial build-out to the next level.

The reasons are within the properties of Metl-Span's IMPs themselves. Made up of a urethane core within a steel interior and exterior barrier, IMPs provide superior air, water, vapor and thermal management in a variety of finishes and sizes. Even though they’re all-in-one, they provide customizable elements so your final project will be one-in-a-million.

 

Code Compliance

By investing in the latest engineering research and staying on top of changes in the construction industry, Metl-Span's IMPs consistently pass or exceed code requirements involving air, water, vapor and thermal performance. For fire-resistant applications, composite IMPs are available with non-combustible mineral wool insulating cores.

Metl-Span's superior insulating barrier comes from the materials used in their state-of-the-art panel design. The urethane core is injected between two pre-finished steel facings so that the materials become a single, solid unit that doesn't lose R-value over time. Adding sealant to the panel’s hidden side joints produces a product that provides the ultimate building envelope protection in the toughest environments.

 

Performance

Due to the design of our IMPs, not only do they pass initial code compliance testing, but the envelope will continue to perform for the life of the building, particularly when it comes to energy efficiency. In fact, the highly efficient insulation not only drives down energy costs but helps projects obtain Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) credits.

 

Longevity

Because Metl-Span uses superior G-90 galvanized and AZ-50 aluminum-zinc coated steel, buildings that use IMPs last—and age well too. By offering a 70 percent PVDF fluoropolymer paint coating that endures the test of time and extreme weather including paint warranties up to 40 years, the projected life span of IMPs can exceed 60 years.*

(*Dependent on environmental conditions.)

 

 

Aesthetics

Metl-Span's IMPs are more than just an all-in-one solution when it comes to the structural and performance aspects; they're designed for exterior and interior walls, and roofs. A wide variety of colors, finishes and profiles offer a generous palette of design choices.

Interiors can be left exposed, providing a clean, bright washable surface without the cost of installing interior drywall and framing.

And because IMPs can be installed vertically or horizontally and can be specified in standard widths from 24” to 42” there's no limit to what can be done with Metl-Span’s products.

 

Speed and Ease of Installation

In construction, time equals money. Because the Metl-Span product line of IMPs are light-weight, they are easy to install. They can also be manufactured to wider widths and longer lengths, increasing the speed with which roofs and walls can be installed. With less panels to hoist and lift into place, installation time can be reduced and finished with more ease than traditional wall systems.

Because IMPs by themselves are a superior wall cladding system, they can also be used as a higher functioning backup wall when combined with other facades as part of a rainscreen assembly. Labor savings vs conventional multi-component backup walls can be significant, and wall design and detailing are greatly simplified. Fewer trades working on the wall assembly equals less conflict, shorter construction schedules and improved warranties.

Pre-fabricated and shipped directly to the site ready to install, Metl-Span's line of products decrease build time from the very start.

About the Author

Metl-Span

Metl-Span is a dynamic industry innovator dedicated to manufacturing and marketing the highest quality insulated building panel products since 1968. We are a recognized leader in the advancement of insulated metal panel technology. With our history of visionary product design – and by consistently setting the highest standards in technological advances – architects, designers and builders trust Metl-Span panel products to perform reliably, be aesthetically-pleasing and come with a proven sustainability track record. Structural integrity, tireless testing and a determination to exceed expectations are primary to Metl-Span’s focus. At Metl-Span, form meets function in the most reliable, cost- and energy-efficient manner possible. For more information, please visit http://www.metlspan.com/.

 

 

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