By Ken Buchinger, American Building Components.

Understand the causes and solutions for ice damming to ensure you are providing the best solutions to your customers.

Ice dams can wreak havoc on roofs, creating a hazardous situation for both people and property. When water backs up behind these frozen barriers, it can infiltrate roofing materials, leading to costly interior damage. For metal roofs, proper installation and maintenance are key to mitigating this risk. ABC Metal Roofing emphasizes the importance of a well-sealed, insulated and ventilated roofing system to prevent ice dams from forming in the first place. By addressing the root causes, you can help homeowners and building owners safeguard their structures and ensure their metal roofs perform properly in winter conditions.

What causes ice dams to develop?

Most ice dams are a result of building air barrier flaws. When warm indoor air escapes through a rooftop, it warms the roof sheathing. This rise in temperature melts the underside of the layer of snow on top. The melted snow then moves down the slope of the roof toward the eaves, where it freezes into ice. As this process continues, the ice thickens, resulting in ice dams. These obstructions can cause water to back up and form a reservoir that can damage ceilings.

How can ice dams be prevented?

To prevent ice dams, follow these four steps:

1 – Seal air leaks  

Sealing air leaks between the warm building interior and the attic or ceiling is imperative to prevent increased sheathing temperatures that can lead to ice dams. If a roof leaks every winter, it’s likely that an air leak is to blame. And getting a new roof is not likely to help — even if it features more ventilation. The simple way to determine if you have air leaks is to get into your attic and check. Leaks can likely be easily sealed with two-component polyurethane spray foam. And extending any exhaust fans that don't reach outside can help adequately seal the structure.

2 – Ensure proper insulation

Many buildings don't have adequate insulation levels to prevent ice damming. Building codes based on your geographic location can help you determine how much insulation you need. If the structure’s design doesn’t allow for adequate insulation, we recommend installing as much closed cell spray polyurethane foam as possible. If replacing the roof, you can also install additional rigid foam insulation on top of the existing roof sheathing before you install the new roof. When taking that approach, make sure all products used are compatible with your new roof and adhere to manufacturer’s recommendations. It’s also imperative that attic insulation completely covers the top plates of a building’s exterior walls.

3 – Improve ventilation

Improving ventilation alone will not prevent air leaks that cause ice damming and should never be your first or only defense. In fact, improving ventilation without sealing air leaks and installing adequate insulation can increase heating costs and make ice damming problems worse. Despite this, if combined with steps one and two above, addressing your roof ventilation can’t hurt. The best ventilation options include soffit and ridge vents. It’s important to remember that all attic ventilation systems require an insulation dam (blocking) between the trusses and ventilation baffles at the attic’s perimeter, facing the soffits, to maintain a ventilation channel from the soffit to the attic and protect against wind-wash.

4 – Use underlayment

Covering the roof sheathing with two or more layers of rubberized membrane underlayment is another protection method that is far less effective if not used in concert with steps one and two. To use properly, it should extend from roof eaves to a point that’s three feet higher than your exterior wall.

Additional measures like framing the roof with raised-heel trusses can also help prevent ice dams. Additionally, avoiding including valleys as well as gutters that are at or above the roofing plane is ideal. Taking these steps can help ensure people and property are safe from overhead dangers. This should be a priority when designing, installing and maintaining your metal roof. For additional information on how metal roofs perform in winter weather, read part one and part two of our ‘Metal Roofs and Snow’ blog series. For additional tips on how to winter-proof your roof, reach out to a local ABC representative today.

Original article and image source: ABC Metal Roofing

By Casey Walker, ABC Metal Roofing.

A smart investment for your home, comfort and wallet, no matter the season.

Winter weather is more than just a nuisance; it’s a true test of your home’s durability. As temperatures drop and snow piles up, your roof bears the brunt of Mother Nature’s wrath. But what if there was a solution to protect your home, reduce your energy bills and even give you peace of mind during those icy months? Enter metal roofing from ABC Metal Roofing, a Cornerstone Building Brands: the unsung hero of winter-ready homes. If you’ve been debating a roof upgrade, now’s the time to consider why a metal roof might be the best decision you make this season.

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Metal roofing for cold climates: Winter performance

A few of the benefits metal roofing offers in the winter include:

1 – Metal roofing reduces the snow burden.

Snow and ice can cause major damage to a structure, especially if the weight burden increases during harsh winters. Metal roof panels are manufactured to resist cold weather damage and are installed to gradually shed snow and ice. Snow guards can help ensure snow safely slides off in small amounts, reducing the chance of injury to those below.

2 – Metal roofing cuts the cost of heating bills.

Metal acts as an insulator and allows both cool and warm air to circulate without escaping – a benefit realized year-round. This results in lower energy costs throughout the year and helps your home stay cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

3 – Year-round installation means you don’t have to wait until spring.

The busiest times of the year for contractors is in the spring, when people are preparing for hurricane season and in fall, when most homeowners want to fix damages before the colder months arrive. Many people assume that metal roofing can't be installed during winter because of snow and ice, however, this assumption is false. In fact, contractors are more likely to be available and to offer lower pricing during this time.

Investing in a metal roof this winter is a decision that will continuously give back financially and environmentally.  With installation available throughout the year and benefits that help you instantly save, why wait? Reach out to your local ABC Metal Roofing representative to learn more!

Original article and photo source: ABC Metal Roofing

By Alejandro Vela, American Building Components. 

How to know when it’s time to say goodbye to your old roof. 

Editors Note: Share this guide with your customers who are homeowners to help them recognize the key signs of roof deterioration and make informed decisions about timely replacements, potentially saving on costly repairs while exploring durable options like metal roofing. 

It’s easy to overlook the silent work your roof does every day, protecting your home from the elements. But when shingles start curling or water seeps into your attic, your roof may be waving a red flag you can’t afford to ignore. A worn-out roof can lead to costly damage, from leaks to structural issues, that no homeowner wants to face. Recognizing the signs early not only safeguards your home but can save you thousands in repairs. Wondering if your roof might be due for a makeover? Here at American Building Components we’ll teach you what to look for before minor issues become major headaches. 

1 – Age is more than just a number 

If your roof is approaching or has passed the 25-year mark, it’s time to start planning for a replacement. Most asphalt shingle roofs last between 20 to 25 years, but if your roof was installed over an existing layer of shingles, its lifespan might be even shorter — around 20 years. In contrast, metal roofs offer a much longer lifespan, often lasting 40 to 70 years, making them a durable alternative. Check your home improvement records or old receipts to find out when your roof was last replaced and consider a professional inspection to assess its current condition. 

2 – Shingles are showing their age 

Take a close look at your shingles. Are they curling, cupping or clawing? These are telltale signs that your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan. Cupping occurs when the edges of the shingles turn upward, while clawing happens when the middle of the shingle lifts while the edges remain flat. You might also notice missing shingles or find small pieces of shingles in your yard after windy days. These are clear indicators that your roof's integrity is compromised and it's time to consider a replacement. 

3 – Granules in the gutter 

Check your gutters for an accumulation of granules — the sandpaper-like grit that covers asphalt shingles. While it's normal for a few granules to come loose, especially on a new roof, excessive granule loss is a red flag. These granules protect your shingles from sun damage. When they start to wear away, your shingles become more vulnerable to the elements, leading to faster deterioration. If you're noticing more granules in your gutters each time they are cleaned, it's a sign your roof may be due for replacement. 

4 – Sagging roof 

A sagging roof is one of the most serious signs that you need a new roof — and fast. This usually means there is a structural issue, such as severe water damage or a broken rafter. A sagging roof can lead to collapse if not addressed promptly. If you notice any dips, curves or waves in your roofline, don't wait. Contact a professional roofing contractor immediately to assess the situation and discuss replacement options. 

5 – Water damage or leaks 

Water stains on your ceilings or walls or active leaks during rainstorms are clear signs that your roof is failing to do its job. These issues can stem from compromised shingles, deteriorated flashing or poor installation techniques. Remember, leaks don't fix themselves and can lead to more severe problems like mold growth or attract pests. If you're experiencing water intrusion, it's crucial to have your roof inspected and potentially replaced to prevent further damage to your home's interior.  

Why consider a metal roof?  

If your current roof is showing any of these signs, it may be time to consider a replacement and a metal roof could be the ideal solution. Metal roofs not only offer an extended lifespan of 40 to 70 years, but they also provide superior protection against many common roofing issues, including water damage and granule loss. Investing in a metal roof means fewer worries about replacements and a strong defense against the elements for decades to come. 

Original article and photo source: American Building Components 

By Jonny Suchor. 

Essential tips for a durable and aesthetically pleasing metal roof.

Attention to detail is key when installing a metal roof. Metal roofs, known for their durability of over 60 years, depend heavily on the right choice and fitting of roofing accessories. Tyler Roose from American Building Components (ABC) offers essential insights for mastering metal roofing installation to ensure both the roof's longevity and visual appeal. 

Choosing the appropriate accessories starts with clearly understanding the type of construction, more specifically the roofing substrate. The material the panels are attached to directly impact the type of fastener used. Another consideration is the roof layout and if it has unique roof features like chimneys or skylights which require precise flashing to prevent leaks. The roof's pitch and slope are also crucial to pay attention to as they affect water flow, dictating the right panel profiles and accessories needed for effective water drainage and aesthetic consistency. 

Before you can select the right accessories, it's crucial to understand your roof's unique requirements. According to Tyler, “Each panel series has specific installation resources with a product checklist that outlines the standard accessories that should be used.” 

Like any roof accessory installation, precision is key. “All penetrations should be added to the project specifications and approved ahead of time by the roofing contractor... For the longevity of the metal roof, it's crucial to follow the standard details for your roofing conditions,” according to Tyler.  

And when it comes to installing these accessories, it's essential to avoid using incompatible materials like lead, copper and graphite together, as they can lead to corrosion. Choosing the correct clip system for your insulation's thickness and using recommended tools, like snips instead of abrasive saws, will help prevent damage to the paint and metal. 

Learn more about effectively installing metal roofing accessories here.

By Jonny Suchor 

A guide to choosing metal roofing trim for every roof style and customer need. 

Selecting the correct metal roofing trim is essential for the longevity and functionality of a roof. Additionally, properly installing the metal roofing trim is key to ensuring the building stays safe from leaks. It’s important to understand the various trim options and how they work with different roofing styles to achieve your customer’s goals and aesthetic preferences. 

“There are a variety of factors to consider when selecting metal roofing trim, including the application, roofing style and curb appeal expectations. Once you’ve made your selection, it’s important to ensure that the trim is properly installed to protect your building from water leaks,” according to Marc Carolan from ABC Metals.  

Key metal roofing trim types include valley trim for drainage at roof junctions, transition flashing for different roof pitches, endwall/sidewall flashing for roof protrusions, gable trim for panel endings and eave trim for the lower roof edge. It is essential to choose heavier gauge materials for better dent resistance and select steel panels with high hail and fire ratings for more protection. 

When selecting trim, consider the roofing style (fastened-through or concealed fasteners), the desired look (rustic to modern) and specific needs like gutters, ridge caps, roof overhangs and the existing roofing composite. Ridge caps, critical for peak protection against weather, come in single bend for a sleek look or double bend for greater durability. 

ABC offers a wide range of trim options and custom solutions to fit unique project requirements, providing a diverse color palette for panels, trim and gutters, to meet functional needs and curb appeal.  

Read the article here to learn more about ABC Metal offerings and find the ideal match for your project.

By Jonny Suchor. 

A trusted building material supply dedicated to delivering exceptional service for over a century! 

Since 1908, American Building Components (ABC) has aimed to support your growth, focusing on reliable deliveries and clear communication.  

“At ABC, we offer a broad selection of products that are designed for a variety of industries including agricultural, commercial, residential and post-frame. This makes us a one-stop shop to meet the needs of all of your customers,” says Kelly Huntsman of ABC.  

With locations in 45 states, ABC ensures fast and affordable delivery of your materials, meeting customer needs quickly. They offer a wide variety of high-quality products for different sectors, making them a convenient source for all your needs. Their experienced team brings innovative solutions to help your business grow. With facilities strategically located across 45 states, this allows you the ability to place smaller orders if needed, reduced shipping costs and helps get you your materials to you quicker. 

But it's about more than just getting products from point A to point B. At ABC, variety meets quality. With the digital age in full swing, their online ordering tool exemplifies convenience by making ordering easy, allowing dealers to manage selections, orders and pricing from anywhere, helping your operations. The ABC platform is built around your needs, offering flexibility in payments and shipping, ensuring that managing your supply chain is as seamless as possible. 

“With over 100 years of experience, we offer innovative solutions backed by knowledgeable staff. Our customers benefit from the combined insight and expertise of our team as we continue to proactively seek out ways to improve their experiences,” Kelly explains. “At ABC, we’re dedicated to providing trusted quality paired with reliable service.”

By Jonny Suchor. 

Discover the ease of ordering roof and wall trim through ABC’s online platform. 

Ordering metal roof and wall trim has never been easier, thanks to the online tools by ABC Metal Roofing that allow for seamless browsing and purchasing. Essential for sealing joints and edges against moisture and providing a polished transition between panels, the right trim is crucial for any metal roofing or wall project.  

Their online selection includes trims in all standard colors to complement various panel profiles, organized into four main categories: concealed fastener trim for the SL-16 panel, exposed fastener trim suitable for profiles like imperial rib and PBR, standing seam trim for LokSeam and versatile custom trim for diverse applications. Each category is carefully tailored to match specific panel profiles, considering differences in rib heights, spacing and installation methods to ensure compatibility and efficiency. 

For projects requiring a unique touch, ABC Metal Roofing provides an easy route to order custom trim, available in lengths up to 20 feet and all standard colors. The process is detailed and requires specific information such as dimensions, color side, degrees of bend and labeling with a piece mark for identification. This approach allows for each custom piece to meet the exact specifications of your project. 

Custom trims are priced based on square footage, with additional costs for bends and hems. For those who find themselves reordering the same trim, ABC Metal Roofing can assign a unique part number for ease of future orders. Customers are encouraged to visit the online ordering tool to take advantage of this ordering process. For new users, registration is a simple step towards accessing various trim options designed to elevate the quality and appearance of any metal roofing or wall project. 

Check out this link to learn more about ABC’s online platform.

By Emma Peterson. 

A paint finish is an easy way to preserve the look and functionality of metal roofing panels and only requires light maintenance over time.  

ABC Metals’ roofing panels use a baked-on paint finish on top of the Galvalume®-coated steel surface to ensure they maintain quality over decades. While this coating keeps maintenance minimal, there are times where it will need touch-ups to preserve the aesthetic appeal of the metal.  

While metal is an inherently resilient material, it can get scratched or dented. A common point for this type of light wear to occur is during the installation process. To avoid scratches or dents on metal roofing panels, they should be treated and stored carefully. ABC Metals recommends storing them “at a slight angle in a dry location that is out of the way of foot traffic and ongoing construction.” Another tip they have is to avoid dragging panels across each other when unbundling them to prevent possible damage.  

After the installation, there are other factors that can lead to minor damage to metal roofing, such as surrounding environmental factors like tree branches scraping against it. According to ABC Metals, it is good practice to remind homeowners to have their roofs checked once a year for annual maintenance to make sure it remains in good condition and to check where any touch ups might be needed.  

When it’s determined that touch-up paint is needed, it’s crucial to make sure the new paint is compatible with the original. In order to achieve the best results, ABC Metals suggests purchasing the touch-up paint from the same metal roof panel manufacturer. These manufacturers often sell small containers of the paint that are specifically designed to match the existing roof panels they sell.  

Check out ABC Metal’s guide to learn more about applying touch-up paint it to metal roof panels!

By Jonny Suchor. 

As metal roofing grows in popularity, ABC Metals provides customers with the highest quality products. 

In a recent MetalCast episode, host Heidi J. Ellsworth interviews Vince Kiteley from American Building Components (ABC Metals) to learn about the growth of metal exteriors and why homeowners are choosing metal for their roofs.  

Established in 1908, ABC Metals has a history of producing residential and commercial metal products. Focused on roofing, siding and structural applications, the company is known for its quality and professional touch. ABC Metals has become a top-tier provider of metal products and materials for customers nationwide.  

Metal is a growing trend in modern construction and can be seen on buildings ranging from classic barns to contemporary architectural wonders. Recently, there has been an increased demand for metal roofs over more traditional options in the residential and high-end housing markets. “We’re starting to see good growth in the residential market,” says Vince, “It’s really taken a turn, and what we see is a house on a block will put metal on.” 

Beyond its visual charm, metal roofing is an ideal option for houses exposed to severe weather conditions, such as wildfires and hail, due to its Class A fire rating, Class 4 hail rating and wind load of 80 mph as long as it is installed correctly. “There are benefits versus a traditional shingle house where those types of elements (fire, hail, wind) can damage a roof, causing stress and pain for the families, but also insurance costs and such where metal will help in that direction,” Vince explains.  

Although the durability of metal is an obvious benefit, homeowners are also choosing metal for its overall aesthetic as well. “With all the different varieties and colors and styles, there's something to fit everybody's taste or needs, the rest of the neighborhood starts all of a sudden going, ‘Oh, wow, that looks really nice. It's not what I thought,’” Vince shares. The recent trend is using metal roofing to turn a regular barn into a beautiful, modern barndominium.  

ABC Metals is dedicated to delivering excellence in metal exterior building products and service as the demand for metal continues to grow. Vince shares, “As a whole, we don't lead with price. We lead with the quality of our products, we lead with the quality of our service, and then we're competitive in the markets, but we want to make sure that people understand what they're getting is the quality.  

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the full MetalCast to hear more about ABC Metal and the trends in the metal market.

By Adam Cabrera. 

From aesthetics, environmental considerations and durability, metals continue to redefine the roofing industry. 

From traditional barns to cutting-edge architectural masterpieces, metal building products are becoming a common feature of modern construction. A recent episode of MetalCast, hosted by Heidi J. Ellsworth and featuring Vince Kiteley, a representative from American Building Components (ABC Metals), shed light on the growing popularity and benefits of metal exteriors. 

Established in 1908, ABC Metals has a long history of manufacturing residential and commercial metal products. Specializing in roofing, siding and structural applications, the company is well known for their high-quality products and professionalism.  

Today, the company no longer sees metal confined to sheds and barns, it’s finding its way into homes and high-end architecture too. "Residential is huge. We're starting to see good growth in the residential market," Vince says. 

Metals benefits in these markets are numerous. Durability, longevity, fire resistance and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions top the list. A focus on environmental considerations, such as heat reflection, energy savings and waste reduction, adds to the allure. 

Aesthetics play a vital role too. Used as an architectural accent or in trends like barndominiums, metals are transforming the visual landscape of buildings. Moreover, the company's new product offerings, like the Retro-R commercial panel, adapt to these trends all while maintaining a high standard of quality and ease of installation. “You don't have to disrupt the business underneath. Everything can continue running. It's a very straightforward, simple process of replacing and it just overlays,” says Vince.  

That being said, Vince emphasized that quality and performance should not be overshadowed by price. "There are thousands of companies out there that roll metal for roofing, and they're not all the same... We lead with the quality of our products, we lead with the quality of our service. We want to make sure that people understand what they're getting is the quality,” he said. 

In an era where construction trends are ever-changing, ABC Metals' passion for quality metal exterior building products resonates with those seeking robust and visually striking solutions.  

Listen to the full MetalCast episode or read the transcript to hear more about trends in the metal market and what advice Vince has to offer for contractors looking to explore the territory.