Metals

Metal building products deliver endless design freedom and sustainability

June 16, 2015
2 min read

Although metals are widely prized for their nearly unlimited design freedom, their sustainable attributes are equally impressive. What other material offers the potential for unlimited recyclability and a practically endless lifespan? Numerous metal building products contain recycled content, reducing the need to mine new materials and saving space in landfills. Because metal is low in weight, it is easy to transport to project sites and uses less energy for transportation than heavier materials. Metal roofs are also a good fit for projects with rain water collection systems for non-potable water because the roofs easily shed contaminants. Using metal building products painted with Valspar coatings can also score points towards LEED certification. 

As a company dedicated to green innovation, Valspar is helping to make metal even more durable, energy efficient, and attractive. Valspar produces high-performance coatings with excellent color retention and corrosion resistance. One of the most effective sustainable maintenance strategies is durability, as these products meet extreme performance and aesthetic criteria with fewer inputs.

Valspar scientists conduct numerous tests, and even have natural weather testing centers to drive innovation and determine which products meet stringent criteria. Graffiti-resistant coatings for example keep projects looking pristine, even in the face of vandalism and Kameleon Colors expand the color palette and inspire awe with pearlescent color-shifting coatings.

Many metal products also help boost energy efficiency, reducing the use of fossil fuels and maintaining occupant comfort. Insulated metal wall panels provide an architectural element, while lowering heating and cooling costs. Innovative solar reflective coatings cut building cooling costs when applied to wall panels, roofs, and extrusions, and Valspar produces coatings with the highest solar reflective values in the industry.

Valspar's innovative coatings have a large impact on comfort and operating costs, due to their tremendous energy savings. They can even lower outdoor ambient temperatures by reflecting rather than absorbing heat, thus mitigating the heat island effect that plagues many cities. Regardless of the color selection, Valspar coatings are at the forefront of green development. 

About the Author

Jeff Alexander

Jeff Alexander, Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings VP of Sales for the Coil and Extrusion division has been with Sherwin-Williams (formerly Valspar) since 1997. He has an entrepreneur spirit and has thrived in building relationships with our customers. Jeff has fully immersed himself in all levels of the coating industry and enjoyed his term as National President at NCCA (National Coil Coating Association).  He is focused on continuing to educate customers on the paint industry.

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