Every year, the Readers’ Choice Awards comes down to—or goes up to—the roof. Whether the top products are metal roof materials, underlayment, clamps or solar arrays, the overwhelming abundance of roof materials and accessories captures the interest of our readers.
Metal Architecture readers identify the products they had the most interest in during 2018
From the top vote getter, the Matterhorn Metal Tiles by Malvern, Pa.-based CertainTeed Corp., to a couple of corrugated metal roofing products from Phoenix-based Western States Metal Roofing, roofing dominates the spectrum. That doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty of variety among the top 29 products of 2018. Our readers also expressed interest in learning more about louvers, curtainwalls, wall systems and doors.
The Readers’ Choice Awards are selected from all the products mentioned in Metal Architecture magazine in editorial articles during 2018, and are ranked by the interest expressed by our readers. We measure that interest based on the leads generated from both the response to circle numbers in the magazine and the MetalConnect emails that provide further information to our readers about these products.
Keeping on top of information about products, given this fast-changing world, is a major headache for architects. Any given project requires in-depth knowledge of thousands of building products, and because they are constantly changing and improving, the continuing education of products is essential to serving the needs of the customer.
Check out the top 29 products from 2018 as identified by our readers in the Metal Architecture Readers’ Choice Awards.
1. CertainTeed Corp.
Matterhorn Metal Tiles
August 2018
CertainTeed’s Matterhorn metal tile replicates the appearance of clay tile on a Tuscan villa. A roll-formed, tongue-and-groove snap-lock hides fasteners and creates a seamless appearance. The metal tiles have 130-mph wind resistance, come in eight colors rated by the Cool Roof Rating Council, and comply with California’s Title 24.
2. EDCO Products Inc.
Infiniti Textured Shakes
August 2018
EDCO Products’ Infiniti textured shakes have PVDF paint granules that are thermally fused to them so they don’t chip, peel or crack. The steel shakes have a four-way interlocking system that attaches to roof decks with clips and fasteners. They are 50.7 inches long by 12.8 inches wide with a 50-inch by 12-inch exposure. Infiniti textured shakes are rated for 160-mph wind uplift resistance and have a Class 4 Impact Rating from the UL-2218 standard. Seven colors are available.
3. Airolite Co. LLC
Narrow Profile Aluminum Louvers
January 2018
Airolite’s aluminum sun controls can be cantilevered, horizontal, vertical or inclined. They have an all-welded assembly for strength and durability. The sun controls can be used to integrate daylight in new and retrofit building projects. They filter the sun’s heat and glare to 80 percent, and cut wintertime radiant heat loss.
4. Exterior Technologies Inc. (EXTECH)
LIGHTWALL 3440 Wall System
April 2018
EXTECH’s LIGHTWALL 3440 is an interlocking polycarbonate translucent wall system. It uses insulating, recyclable, 40-mm structural cellular polycarbonate and recycled aluminum framing. LIGHTWALL 3440’s vertical panels can extend to 54 feet long and eliminate leak-prone horizontal joints. Structural cellular polycarbonate panels are 500 mm (19 11/16 inches) wide. Options for ultraviolet resistance, infrared blocking and anti-glare glazing are available.
5. S-5!
PV Kit 2.0 EdgeGrab and PV Kit 2.0 MidGrab Photovoltaic Clamps
November 2018
S-5!’s PV Kit 2.0 EdgeGrab and PV Kit 2.0 MidGrab mount photovoltaics on standing seam roof systems. They have preassembled components and PV Kit 2.0 EdgeGrab is a single piece. PV Kit 2.0 EdgeGrab and PV Kit 2.0 MidGrab create a 1-inch gap between modules, allowing load reduction per ASCE-7. One tool is needed for installation, and they have a disk design that works with all S-5! clamps and exposed-fastened brackets.
6. CENTRIA
Formawall Graphix Series Insulated Metal Panels
January 2018
CENTRIA’s Formawall Graphix Series insulated metal panels (IMPs) are produced without halogen in their insulating foam cores. The panels have a Health Product Declaration (HPD) from the HPD Collaborative. Horizontal and vertical IMPs are available in a range of lengths, thicknesses, reveals and profiles. Additionally, the panels can be curved.
7. Dri-Design
Aluminum Wall Panels
January 2018
Dri-Design aluminum wall panels on the renovation of the Durham City Hall in Durham, N.C., received interest from our readers. The wall panels included an interior gutter system to rainwater off the face of the panels. The design featured 3,535 square feet of post-painted aluminum wall panels. The primary color was Dorian Gray. Agreeable Gray, Amazing Gray and Dark Bronze panels were also used.
8. MiaSole Hi-Tech Corp.
FLEX-03N Photovoltaic Module
November 2018
MiaSolé’s FLEX-03N module is a copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS)-based, flexible, thin-film, photovoltaic (PV) module that provides high power density. It has more than 16 percent cell efficiency. It is 0.37 meters (14.6 inches) wide, and can be used on standing seam roofs, where modules fit in the spaces between seams. Length ranges from 1710 millimeters (67.3 inches) to 5910 millimeters (232.7 inches). The FLEX-03N module is impervious to hail, shatterproof and wind resistant. It adheres directly to metal roofs without racking, brackets or roof penetrations. The PV module can also conform to curved structures.
9. NanaWall Systems Inc.
Cero Large Glass Panel System
May 2018
Nana Wall Systems Inc.’s (NanaWall) Cero large glass panel system has four sill options: flush sill, higher weather performance sill, low-profile saddle sill, and low-profile saddle hybrid sill. The higher weather performance sill has a stainless steel track that sits above the water table to prevent corrosion, and a cascading water management system that weeps water to panel faces or below. The flush sill lies flush against surrounding floor and is used in protected areas and interiors. The low-profile saddle sill is shallow; it is recessed at 7/16 inches and reduces sheeting rain from entering interiors. The low-profile saddle hybrid sill is a combination of the low-profile saddle sill and flush sill. It works with varying interior and exterior finish floor heights.
10. RCS–Roof Curb Systems
Fast-Rac Platform System
January 2018
RCS-Roof Curb Systems Fast-Rac roof platform system mounts roof equipment to low-slope, standing seam roofs. It has aluminum construction and is installed with integrated utility clamps. The Fast-Rac system does not penetrate roofs. It can be used to mount air conditioning condensers, mini-splits, duct supports, utility shutoffs and accessories less than 400 pounds.
11. Covertech Fabricating Inc.
rFoil Reflective Insulation
July 2018
Covertech Fabricating’s rFOIL reflective insulation has a layer of polyethylene bubbles bonded to and sandwiched between a radiant barrier metalized foil and white polyethylene sheet. It controls heat gain/loss and prevents interior condensation in metal and metal-clad buildings. RFOIL blocks 96 percent of radiant heat transfer. It is puncture resistant, tear resistant and UV resistant. It is Class 1/Class A fire-rated (ASTM E84-09).
12. CRL-US Aluminum
Series 4500 Curtainwall
May 2018
CRL-U.S. Aluminum’s Series 4500 Curtainwall features the company’s UNIflash System, which sweeps infiltrated water to the exterior and eliminates the need for vinyl flashing. The curtainwall has snap-in component parts and does not use a pressure bar, which facilitates installation. Exterior and interior members are internally joined with a non-conductive, injection-molded thermoplastic connector that provides thermal performance and U-factors to U-0.24. For contemporary, all-glass aesthetics, the 4500SG model can be used for floor-to-ceiling, uninterrupted glass spans.
13. Hunter Douglas Architectural
High Profile Series Frameworks
May 2018
Hunter Douglas Architectural’s High Profile Series Frameworks are custom, extruded aluminum beams for ceilings and walls. Curved and straight beams can be assembled into elements including peaks, valleys, screens and rafters. High Profile Series Frameworks can be used for vertical, angled and horizontal applications including bays of beams that look like wood, angled at ceilings, descending as screenwalls and in single rafters with variable peaks to create openness and movement. Support options include threaded rods, Unistrut supports and low-visibility aircraft cables.
14. Petersen Aluminum Corp.
Precision Series Cupped Tiles
August 2018
Petersen Aluminum’s Precision Series Cupped Tiles for walls and roofs are 3/8-inch deep and add dimension to exteriors. The cupped design catches light at multiple angles to create a multi-shade effect and sense of movement as viewing perspective changes. Cupped Tiles are produced in 0.032-inch aluminum or 24-gauge steel. They are 14 1/2 inches long by 8 5/16 inches wide. In roof applications, installers can safely walk on the tiles during installation. The metal tiles are offered in 38 PAC-CLAD colors.
15. Simpson Strong-Tie Inc.
SHH Steel Header Hanger
February 2018
Simpson Strong-Tie Co. Inc.’s SHH Steel Header Hangers support cold-formed steel framing box headers and large-flange lay-in headers in curtainwalls. They reduce drywall build-up, have minimal screw counts and a galvanized G90 finish. Two models are offered: SHH6 and SHH3. SHH6 is manufactured in steel thicknesses of 54-mil (16-gauge) and 68-mil (14-gauge) and is for use with 6-inch (minimum) box headers. SHH3 is manufactured from 68-mil (14-gauge) steel; it is for 3 5/8-inch or 4-inch (maximum) box headers and large-flange lay-in headers.
16. Skyco Skylights Inc.
Industrial Unit Skylights
April 2018
Skyco Skylights’ Industrial Unit Skylights feature polycarbonate domes with 70 percent visible light transmittance. The 4-foot by 8-foot skylights have a copping system that eliminates cracking and leaks, and condensation gutters. They are curb mounted or self-flashing. Industrial Unit Skylights passed an 800-pound impact test and have a Class IV hail rating. Additionally, an optional VORTEX venting base is available.
17. Aegis Metal Framing
Ultra-Span
September 2018
Aegis Metal Framing’s Ultra-Span is a roll-formed shape for fabricating cold-formed steel trusses. Roof trusses can span to 80 feet. It may be used for floor trusses as well. Ultra-Span is manufactured from 50-ksi steel, and multiple fire-rated assemblies are offered.
18. ClarkDietrich Building Systems
Pony Wall Connectors
September 2018
ClarkDietrich’s Pony Wall connectors create partial wall framing connections. The connectors support out-of-plane loading of cantilevered partial wall systems that are unsupported at the top tracks. Out-of-plane loads are transferred to floor systems through base plates, which are welded to Pony Wall stud members. Pony Wall connectors are available in 24-inch, 36-inch and 48-inch sizes. They meet applicable ASTM standards for cold-formed steel framing members.
19. LM Curbs
Roof Walkway System
January 2018
LMCurbs’ Roof Walkway Systems are mechanically attached to standing seam roofs and non-penetrating. They create anti-skid walkways that protect roofs from foot traffic. Roof Walkway Systems have 12-inch-wide interlocking planks that create 24-inch-, 36-inch-, 48-inch- and 60-inch-wide walkways. They are 2 1/2 inches tall. The walkways are produced with galvanized steel with G-90 coating. Optional components include handrails, kick plates, leveling capabilities and ridgeline step-overs.
20. Metl-Span
CF Architectural Insulated Metal Panels
January 2018
The insulated metal panels (IMPs) for the Central New York Film Hub in DeWitt, N.Y., give it a present-day appearance that complements its modern studio and soundstage. The project comprises more than 20,000 square feet of Metl-Span’s 3-inch, 22/26-gauge CF Architectural wall panels in a variety of metallic gray colors. The IMPs have concealed fasteners and a flush appearance.
21. MFM Building Products Group
Wind & Water Seal Underlayment
October 2018
MFM Building Products’ Wind and Water Seal underlayment is high temperature rated to 250 F. It works well under metal roofing systems, and is self-adhering and self-sealing around fasteners. The 40-mil-thick roof underlayment may be used as a whole roof covering to offer secondary water protection. Rolls are 36 inches by 67 feet (200 square feet).
22. Móz Design
Blackened Steel Patina
May 2018
Móz Designs’ Blackened Steel Patina mimics weathered steel. The finish is digitally rendered on 0.040-inch aluminum sheets. It comes in two standard sheet sizes: 4-foot by 8-foot, and 4-foot by 10-foot. Applications for the lightweight material include ceilings, columns, feature walls and partitions. Blackened Steel Patina is in Móz Designs’ Elemental palette in the company’s Blendz Patina product line.
23. R&S Roof Products
RS36 Prismatic Skylights
April 2018
R&S Roof Products’ RS36 Prismatic Skylights can replace LTP skylights on 12-inch on-center, high-rib roofs. The 10-foot-long skylights have an ultraviolet additive in its plastic that resists yellowing from sun exposure. A RS36 Prismatic Skylight is installed on a single roof panel. The skylights include factory-installed OSHA fall protection screens.
24. Solarworld
Photovoltaic Panels
January 2018
Heron Hall, Bainbridge Island, Wash., is one of the greenest houses in the world, and features solar panel modules from Solarworld. The array generates 105 percent of the energy the 3,300-square-foot house requires.
25. Solatube International Inc.
SolaMaster 300 DS Tubular Daylighting Device
April 2018
Solatube’s SolaMaster 300 DS tubular daylighting device may be installed in small or low ceiling spaces. It can also be used in hard and suspended ceiling systems with 2-foot by 2-foot grids. SolaMaster 300 DS works on new and retrofit projects with 16-inch on-center framing without structural modifications. It features Spectralight Infinity with SoftLight technology, which provides light diffusion without light loss by manipulating the spread or beam of light coming down its tube.
26. Super Stud Building Products Inc.
EDGE Steel Framing System
September 2018
Super Stud Building Products’ EDGE Steel Framing System features a closed triangular lip for safety. It does not have sharp edges anywhere along the length of the studs. The drywall studs come in three thicknesses. The EDGE 25 is 15 mils (0.015-inch) thick and can be used instead of 25-gauge framing. The EDGE Performance 20 is 19 mils (0.019-inch) thick and is manufactured from 55-ksi materials. The EDGE Super 20 is 23 mils (0.023-inch) thick and is manufactured from minimum 40-ksi material. The EDGE Steel Framing System is UL Classified for use in one-, two-, three- and four-hour wall assemblies, and complies with ASTM C645 and C754.
27. Western States Metal Roofing
7/8-inch Corrugated Panels in Streaked Copper
April 2018
Western States Metal Roofing’s 7/8-inch Corrugated panels in Streaked Copper are 24-gauge steel panels painted in a Kynar 500/Hylar 5000 PVDF finish to make them look like copper with a patina. The highs of the corrugations look like a dull and weathered brown copper; the lows are painted Aqua Marine Green. The different colors and shades of paint in the highs and lows create depth and a realistic paint print.
28. Western States Metal Roofing
Corrugated Corten Steel Panels
January 2018
Kansas Municipal Utilities Inc.’s training center in McPherson, Kan., is headquarters for a statewide association of government agencies and features 1,300 square feet of Western States Metal roofing’s corrugated Corten steel panels. The minimal finishes and exposed structural members were a neat complement to the Corten panels.
29. YKK-AP America Inc.
YSD 600 T Sliding Glass Door
January 2018
YKK AP America Inc.’s YSD 600 T thermally broken, low-threshold sliding glass door incorporates accessibility into designs. It provides structural capabilities without reinforcement. The YSD 600 T sliding glass door accepts standard tempered 1-inch-thick insulating units. All panels, fixed and operable, are shop-fabricated and can be pre-glazed. It features a ThermaBond Plus thermal break and has a U-value of 0.51 BTU/hour/foot/F.