The contractor-first approach to architectural metal

Contractors entering the architectural metal business need more than just equipment.

The architectural sheet metal industry offers significant opportunities for contractors, but success depends on far more than purchasing the right equipment. In a recent MetalCast™ episode, Karen Edwards spoke with Ken McLaughlin of Carlisle Architectural Metals about how contractor partnerships have shaped the growth of Drexel Metals and the broader architectural metal market.

Ken explained that Drexel Metals was founded in 1985 with a focus on serving contractors working in the portable roll-forming space. Over time, that commitment evolved into a business model centered on helping contractors navigate the increasingly complex architectural metal environment. “Drexel has always been the partner to the contractor. That's been their model,” Ken said.

This philosophy has become increasingly important as metal roofing and architectural metal cladding systems continue to gain market share. According to Ken, growth has been driven by contractors, manufacturers and the design community working together to educate the market and expand awareness of metal building solutions.

Yet opportunity often comes with challenges. Contractors pursuing higher-end architectural work must balance homeowner expectations, aesthetics, performance requirements and risk management. Projects may call for specific design features, lower-slope applications, fire protection considerations or tested assemblies that meet regional building requirements. “A lot of the smaller contractors have annual revenue that rivals some of these large contractors,” Ken noted, pointing out that specialty residential projects can be just as demanding and profitable as larger commercial work.

Finding the right partner often is the difference between success and frustration. Contractors may be tempted by machinery or systems that appear to solve immediate challenges, but Ken emphasized the importance of understanding long-term implications, particularly when it comes to testing, code compliance and system performance.

As more contractors look to expand into architectural metal work, the conversation shifts from simply acquiring equipment to building a sustainable strategy. This broader approach sets the stage for the next step: creating a support system that helps contractors grow with confidence.

Listen to the full podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about architectural sheet metal contractor partnerships.