By Metal Construction Alliance.

Join us to learn design‑focused, technical and practical tips from three experts, including an award-winning architect and an industry-leading specifier!

You're invited to earn up to three continuing education (CE) credits at a new, half-day educational program on May 29, 2026 in Chicago. Form, Function, and Finish: Designing with Metal is being developed and delivered by the Metal Construction Association (MCA)—the industry authority on the use of metal in the building envelope. Breakfast is included, and you can make new connections with time to network with attendees and vendors.

The details

When: Friday, May 29, 2026 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: 633 North St. Clair Street, Chicago
What: Earn three (3) CEs in one morning
Why: Level up your skills and network

Registration is free for architects, designers and specifiers from throughout the Chicago area, Milwaukee and northwest Indiana.

What you'll learn and from whom

Designing with Metal: Performance, Resilience + Architectural Expression
Rick Schneider, FAIA LEED, founder and principal of ISTUDIO Architects
An architect will discuss how metal systems reduce long-term operational costs, streamline construction and support resilient design via four award-winning projects. 

Designing With Metal Composite Materials
Samuel Chastain, director of commercial operations at Alfrex, Inc
Learn about flexibility, sustainability, energy efficiency and visual appearance designing with metal composite materials from an experienced industry professional who co-invented a composite building panel with improved resilience.

Insulated Metal Panels: Performance, Sustainability, + Design
Kyle Ferenc, CSI, district sales manager, ATAS International and VP of the Chicago Chapter of the Construction Specifications Institute
A specifier will explore various uses for insulated metal panels in creative design, and the benefits of long-term sustainability. 

Companies you can connect with

In addition to learning, you can network with other attendees and meet leading suppliers for the metal building envelope. These companies include McElroy Metals, ATAS International, Sheffield Metals and more. The entire event is sponsored by Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings. Make new connections and find products to help you achieve your goals!

Save your seat today! 

Taking a closer look at the MasterLok line of standing seam panels for low-slope commercial roofing. 

In low-slope commercial roofing projects, it’s important to consider the intricate role panel design and quality will play when it comes to getting the most exact measurements. With seam configuration as a top-of-mind factor, panels such as the MasterLok-90 and MasterLok-FS from McElroy Metal are the ideal trapezoidal standing seam panel systems for the job. Each panel system is designed with low-slope applications in mind and offers different seam configurations based on your project needs.  

McElroy Metal breaks down the core differences and components of each panel profile, offering a better look at how to determine which panel is right for your project needs.  

What is the MasterLok Standing Seam System? 

MasterLok-90 and MasterLok-FS share the same trapezoidal standing seam panel profile and feature a 3" rib height. Both panels are designed for roof slopes as low as 1/4:12 and are intended for simple sloped roofs without dormers, hips, valleys or other special conditions. 

Both systems can be installed over solid decking or open framing, allowing them to be used in a variety of low-slope roofing assemblies. 

Within that shared platform, the difference between the two panels lies in seam configuration. 

MasterLok-90 

MasterLok-90 (ML-90) is a snap-together trapezoidal standing seam system. The panel uses the same trapezoidal geometry found across the MasterLok family and is designed for low-slope roofing applications. 

This system is commonly used on commercial and industrial buildings with low-slope roof assemblies, including projects with long panel runs and complex roof layouts. It may be considered for new construction or recover applications when project conditions allow. 

From an installation standpoint, proper panel alignment and engagement are important for supporting the system's long-term performance. Careful attention to installation details helps ensure the panels are installed in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and perform as intended over time. 

How does MasterLok-FS differ from MasterLok-90? 

MasterLok-FS uses the same panel geometry as MasterLok-90 but features a mechanically seamed configuration. This distinction sets it apart from the snap-together design used in MasterLok-90 while maintaining the same overall panel geometry. 

With MasterLok-FS: 

• Panels are installed by engaging the factory-formed edge 
• Final mechanical seaming is completed after placement 

As with any mechanically seamed standing seam system, proper installation in accordance with manufacturer guidelines is important to ensure the panels are properly engaged. 

Learn about seaming tool rental. 

Comparing MasterLok-90 and MasterLok-FS for low-slope commercial roofing 

The primary difference between MasterLok-90 and MasterLok-FS is how the seam is formed and completed. 

• MasterLok-90: snap together trapezoidal standing seam system 
• MasterLok-FS: features a mechanically seamed configuration 

Neither system is intended to replace the other. Instead, each supports different testing and project requirements. MasterLok-FS systems typically offer improved uplift and weather-tightness performance, so they're popular in coastal and high wind applications. In contrast, MasterLok-90 offers a quicker installation and lower overall cost. 

Low-slope design considerations for standing seam metal roofing 

Low-slope metal roofing systems require careful planning beyond the panel profile itself. When working with MasterLok systems, contractors should consider: 

• Minimum slope requirements  
• Substrate preparation and condition 
• Underlayment selection and compatibility 
• Penetration, edge and transition detailing  
• Drainage paths and roof geometry  

Early coordination between the contractor, design team and manufacturer can help reduce field adjustments and support predictable installation outcomes. 

What is the MoistureLok® anti-condensation option? 

MasterLok-90 and MasterLok-FS are available with the MoistureLok® anti-condensation option. MoistureLok is a factory-applied feature designed to help manage condensation that may form on the underside of metal roof panels. 

The MoistureLok material is applied to the underside of the panel during manufacturing and is designed to absorb and store moisture until conditions allow it to evaporate. This option can be used in applications where condensation management is an important consideration. 

Selecting the right MasterLok system for your low-slope roofing project 

For contractors, choosing between MasterLok-90 and MasterLok-FS is a project-specific decision. Both systems are engineered to address the challenges associated with low-slope metal roofing, but each offers a different approach to installation and different strengths. 

Understanding how seam formation, jobsite workflow and detailing requirements differ between the two systems allows contractors to make informed recommendations and plan installations more effectively. Matching the system to the project's conditions, rather than forcing it beyond its intended use, remains the most reliable path to long-term roof performance. 

Original article source: McElroy Metal

By The Coffee Shops™. 

Metal roofing systems offer a wide range of benefits, and determining what system is right for your customer starts with understanding the material. 

While homeowners often concern themselves with curb appeal and the aesthetics of their roofs, priorities for commercial building owners are a bit different. For a commercial building, a durable and long-lasting roofing system is the top priority. These roofs need to last, as they’re often a major investment in the success of whatever operations happen inside the structure they protect. That’s why metal manufacturers, like McElroy Metal, make the case for using metal roofing in commercial work.  

Metal roofing systems are well known for their reputation as having one of, if not the, longest service lifespan on the market. Metal roofs can be expected to last decades, from 50-70 years! For commercial building owners looking for a solution with low maintenance needs and superior durability that’s going to get them the most out of their investment, metal is fantastic.  

On top of that, metal roofing systems are tested and continue to receive stellar ratings for wind uplift and water-shedding performance. In environments prone to harsh weather conditions or where wind and rain are commonplace, these systems are designed to protect and prevail. In addition, regions experiencing volatile weather patterns have the benefit of maximized energy efficiency with metal roofs, which are a great sustainable option due to metal’s ability to regulate internal temperatures better than conventional roofing materials.  

In the long run, metal is hard to pass on once you’ve identified the impressive characteristics and capabilities it offers. Superior durability, energy efficiency, a long lifecycle and even modern aesthetics – metal has it all!  

Learn more about the benefits of using metal roofing systems in commercial projects.

By Dani Sheehan. 

A growing community gathered in Oklahoma City this year to celebrate craftsmanship and strengthen the post-frame industry. 

Members of the National Frame Building Association (NFBA) gathered in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, for the 2026 NFBA 58th Annual Conference and Expo, bringing together builders, suppliers and industry leaders to share ideas and celebrate the post-frame community. 

Held at the Oklahoma City Convention Center, this was the first time NFBA has hosted its annual expo this far west. The new location proved to be a success, drawing record attendance and introducing the show to new builders and markets. 

“This is our first time in Oklahoma City, so we really weren’t sure how it was going to go,” Morgan Arwood, membership director for NFBA, shared in a live floor interview. “We were pleasantly pleased to have so many people here at the show.” 

Moving the expo farther west allowed contractors from states such as Texas and Arizona to attend more easily, expanding the reach of the event and bringing new participants into the post-frame community.  

Trade show floor showcases 

The expo floor gave attendees the opportunity to explore the latest innovations shaping the post-frame industry, with exhibitors highlighting new products, equipment and services designed to support builders and contractors. 

We had a great time exploring the show floor, frequently pausing at the demo area as they assembled an entire post-frame building in a matter of hours. Our partners at Everlast Roofing were highlighting their color guides with a magnetic board of samples you could touch and see how different lighting affected each shade. MetalForming LLC brought their tried-and-true Schroeder and Schechtl machines while also announcing their newest partnership with New Tech Machinery. We loved capturing content with K9 Fasteners®, who shared why their fasteners exceed the durability and performance standards needed in places like Oklahoma and Colorado that endure frequent extreme weather events. And Jamie at Chem Link showed us how quickly and easily their M1® Universal Adhesive and Sealant repairs leaks even underwater! 

NFBA continues expanding its reach 

As the industry continues to grow, NFBA is working to ensure its annual expo remains accessible to members nationwide. Future expo locations are expected to rotate among cities such as Columbus, Ohio; Louisville, Kentucky; and Nashville, Tennessee, while periodically introducing additional outlier locations to expand the association’s reach. 

“As the National Frame Building Association, we have to be national,” Morgan said. “By moving locations and introducing the show to different regions, the goal is to help post-frame gain traction and attract more builders.” 

Celebrating craftsmanship  

One of my favorite events of the expo each year is the awards luncheon, where NFBA members gather to celebrate the craftsmanship and innovation shaping the post-frame industry. This year’s Building of the Year Awards saw a record 110 project submissions! Winning projects represented a wide range of building types, including agricultural, commercial and residential structures, demonstrating the versatility and design flexibility that post-frame construction offers.  

To recognize companies of varying sizes, awards were divided into three categories this year based on annual post-frame sales volume. Each winning project received two plaques, one for the builder and one for the building owner. “When a building owner gets to display a Building of the Year award and someone asks who built it, it becomes a great referral opportunity for that contractor,” Morgan added. 

In addition to honoring outstanding projects, NFBA also recognized individuals who have made significant contributions to the industry. Awards presented during the ceremony included Crew Foreman of the Year to celebrate the field leaders who help ensure projects are completed safely and successfully. The association’s highest honor, the Bernon G. Perkins Award, was presented to Ken Gieseke, who recently retired from McElroy Metal. A past NFBA president, Ken has long been recognized for his dedication to the association and his leadership within the metal construction industry. 

Networking and community remain at the heart 

While the trade show floor and educational sessions are central to the expo, NFBA always provides numerous opportunities for members to connect and strengthen relationships across the industry. Both the PLYCO reception and the NFBA Social and Silent Auction were favorited this year. Proceeds from the silent auction support the NFBA Foundation, the association’s charitable arm dedicated to advancing the industry through research, technology initiatives and education. This year was an important milestone as the foundation awarded its first two scholarships to support the next generation of our industry. 

From first-time attendees to long-time members, the expo reflected a culture of collaboration and mentorship that has long defined the post-frame industry. “The people in this industry are fantastic – truly some of the kindest people you’ll ever meet,” Morgan shared. “It’s fun to be around them and it’s fun to be part of an association that supports them.” 

Catch up on what you missed at this year’s expo with other live interviews on our MetalCoffeeShop YouTube channel!

By Anna Lockhart.  

Seamlessly bring together any metal structure with the help of this concealed fastener metal panel from McElroy Metal.  

When it comes to choosing a material for building exteriors, durability and aesthetics are some of the first qualities to come to mind. Metal siding and wall panels can deliver on both fronts, giving a building’s exterior a sleek and modern look while also offering long-lasting protection against the elements.  

Taking it a step further is the selection of soffits and fascia that can provide additional support to the primary wall system’s lifespan. One such product is the Marquee-Lok metal panel from McElroy Metal, a concealed fastener panel created for soffit and fascia use. Versatile and durable, this panel profile stands out to designers and contractors due to their various potential uses across a single project. 

Using Marquee-Lok panels create a seamless, modern look for the building exterior, a design choice favored by those looking to increase aesthetics and maximize curb appeal. Further, for soffit and fascia applications, the panel aids in increasing a structure’s strength and creating a uniform appearance along roof edges and overhangs. Need the exterior to blend across all areas? Marquee-Lok can be used as wall panels as well, covering areas where consistency is needed, cutting down on the number of unique profiles purchased for a project.  

Seen frequently on commercial buildings and institutions such as campuses and office spaces, it’s necessary for the chosen panels to offer a well-blended appearance due to their highly visible nature. Marquee-Lok panels offer a seamless appearance that elevates any project, while also assuring that structure can be relied upon to endure for decades to come.  

Learn more about the benefits of utilizing Marquee-Lok panels in your next project!

The latest coating technologies are designed with sustainability and durability in mind. Here’s what you need to know about these innovative solutions.  

As the market shifts towards more environmentally friendly designs and material choices, finding ways to provide sustainable metal roof coatings is a top priority for many contractors. This recent, yet rapid, change is showcasing just how critical embracing new and innovative paint technologies can help secure business and satisfy customers as we move into a new era of eco-conscious thinking. 

The metal roofing experts at McElroy Metal share the must-know facts about the latest coating technologies and how this evolution can be a game changer, if adapted and understood correctly.  With the right metal roof coatings and understanding of their environmental impact, contractors can take on this evolving market in a whole new way. 

The good-better-best coating hierarchy 

When we talk about sustainable paint technologies, it's crucial to understand the three-tier system that defines today's metal roof coatings. Picture it as a performance pyramid where each level represents a unique balance between cost, performance and environmental impact. 

Polyester coatings: The foundation level 

These coatings serve as the entry point into the market. While they offer basic protection for interior applications and some limited outdoor use, their performance limitations make them unsuitable for most residential projects. The cost advantage becomes meaningless when you consider premature replacement cycles. Experienced contractors steer clear of recommending polyester coatings for projects where long-term performance matters, which covers virtually every residential application. 

Silicone-modified polyester (SMP): The middle ground 

SMP systems represent a step up from straight polyester, but this is where real-world performance reveals the true story. I've witnessed too many contractors caught off guard by SMP's limitations. The most compelling evidence came from a Louisiana project where identical green panels were installed — some with SMP, others with PVDF coatings. After just eight years, the SMP panels displayed severe fading and chalk degradation while the PVDF panels maintained their original appearance. 

This isn't an isolated incident. SMP coatings consistently demonstrate significant fade and chalk issues within the first decade of service. While they might work for budget-conscious projects with light colors where degradation is less noticeable, they're not the sustainable choice for clients who value long-term performance. 

PVDF (Kynar 500®): The sustainability leader 

PVDF coatings have been establishing the standard since their development in 1965. Originally embraced by the architectural community for their superior performance, these coatings quickly became the gold standard for commercial applications. The game-changer arrived in the 1990s when government intervention dismantled the monopoly on PVDF resin production, making high-performance coatings accessible to all quality-conscious consumers. 

What makes PVDF the most sustainable choice? The numbers tell the story. PVDF warranties allow only 20% chalk resistance for roofing applications versus 50% for SMP systems. For fade performance, PVDF maintains 5 Delta E compared to SMP's 9 Delta E. These aren't just technical specifications — they translate directly to real-world performance that lasts decades. 

Cool roof pigment technology: Where energy efficiency meets innovation 

The science behind reflective coatings represents one of the most significant advances in sustainable roofing technology. Metal roofing naturally deflects heat better than traditional materials, but adding reflective pigments creates a synergistic effect that dramatically improves energy performance. 

Cool roof pigments work by enhancing both solar reflectivity and thermal emittance. When combined with metal's inherent heat deflection properties, these systems can reduce cooling costs by up to 20% according to Department of Energy studies. This isn't just about summer comfort — it's about reducing peak demand on electrical grids and minimizing urban heat island effects. 

The technology becomes even more interesting when you consider color options. Even darker metal roofs with cool pigments outperform traditional asphalt shingles in energy efficiency. This gives architects and contractors unprecedented flexibility in balancing aesthetic preferences with sustainability goals. 

Manufacturing innovations that support sustainability 

Behind every sustainable coating system lies manufacturing technology that extends panel life and reduces environmental impact. Warm-forming technology represents one of the most significant advances in sustainable manufacturing practices. 

By heating steel coils to 120-170°F before roll-forming, manufacturers prevent microfracturing that can compromise coating integrity. This process is especially beneficial for SMP systems, which are more brittle and prone to stress cracking during formation. While not all manufacturers have adopted warm forming technology, those that have demonstrated a commitment to producing panels with extended service life. 

Edge coating applications provide another layer of sustainable protection. By applying rust inhibitors to cut panel edges, manufacturers extend panel life and reduce maintenance requirements. These seemingly small innovations add up to significant environmental benefits when multiplied across thousands of installations. 

Environmental impact and life cycle benefits 

The sustainability story of metal roofing extends far beyond the coating itself. Metal roofing systems offer 100% recyclability with high recycled content in new panels. This contrasts sharply with the 11 million tons of shingle waste generated annually, requiring 300 years to decompose in landfills. 

The 60-year life expectancy of properly coated metal roofing systems represents a massive reduction in production energy and waste compared to traditional materials. When you factor in minimal maintenance requirements over the service life, the environmental benefits become even more compelling. 

Perhaps most importantly, the recover versus replacement advantage cannot be overstated. Installing metal roofing over existing materials eliminates tear-off waste and disposal costs while reducing labor and material requirements. This approach delivers immediate environmental benefits while providing superior long-term performance. 

Practical selection guidance for contractors 

Understanding warranty specifications is crucial for contractors navigating the sustainable coating landscape. The chalk resistance standards tell the real story — SMP allows 50% chalk versus PVDF's 20% limit for roofing applications. For fade performance, the difference is equally dramatic, with SMP allowing 9 Delta E versus PVDF's 5 Delta E. 

These specifications matter because they represent what manufacturers consider acceptable performance degradation. The Louisiana project example shows SMP panels that would technically meet warranty requirements despite obvious visual degradation that most homeowners would find unacceptable. 

Inventory considerations also play a role in sustainable practices. National manufacturers typically stock PVDF coatings as standard offerings, while regional manufacturers may only offer special orders with minimum quantities and extended lead times. This availability difference can influence project sustainability outcomes. 

See the video about coating sustainability on our partner Sherwin-Williams site.

The path forward 

Sustainable paint technologies for metal roof panels represent more than just environmental compliance — they offer competitive differentiation for contractors who understand their value proposition. Market trends clearly favor high-performance systems as energy codes become increasingly stringent, and environmental awareness continues to grow. 

The most successful contractors recognize that sustainable coatings aren't just about meeting today's requirements — they're about future-proofing installations for decades of performance. Whether it's supporting solar panel installations, meeting evolving energy codes or simply delivering the "like new" appearance that clients expect, sustainable paint technologies provide the foundation for long-term success. 

The choice between coating systems ultimately reflects how contractors view their role in the industry. Those focused on first cost will continue to struggle with callbacks and customer satisfaction issues. Those who embrace sustainable paint technologies as a core differentiator will build lasting relationships with clients who value both environmental responsibility and superior performance. 

The question isn't whether sustainable paint technologies will dominate the market — it's whether contractors will position themselves as leaders in this transition or scramble to catch up later. The technology is proven, the benefits are clear and the market is ready. 

Original article source: McElroy Metal

This combination brings together two strong, values-aligned organizations while preserving the people, service and relationships that matter most.

McElroy Metal has acquired Fabral, a respected leader in the metal construction industry with nearly 60 years of experience, adding Fabral to the McElroy Metal family of companies.

Fabral will continue to operate independently, retaining its leadership team, employees and customer relationships. Dennis Merino will continue to serve as president of Fabral.

"Our top priority is continuity," said Ian McElroy, president of McElroy Metal. "This combination brings together two strong, values-aligned organizations while preserving the people, service and relationships that matter most."

Dennis Merino, President of Fabral, added, "Fabral customers and vendors can expect the same team, the same commitment to quality and the same focus on service — now supported by the long-term strength and resources of McElroy Metal."

McElroy Metal is an employee-owned manufacturer of metal roofing, siding and related building products with a national footprint and a long-standing commitment to investing in its people, manufacturing excellence and customer relationships.

About McElroy Metal

Since 1963, McElroy Metal has served the construction industry with quality products and excellent customer service. The employee-owned components manufacturer is headquartered in Bossier City, Louisiana, and has 14 manufacturing facilities across the United States. Quality, service and performance have been the cornerstone of McElroy Metal's business philosophy and have contributed to the company's success through the years. As a preferred service provider, these values will continue to be at the forefront of McElroy Metal's model, along with a strong focus on the customer. More information can be found at https://www.mcelroymetal.com.

About Fabral

Founded in 1967 as Fabral Metal Wall and Roof Systems, Fabral is widely recognized as a benchmark for the metal roofing industry. With decades of experience, Fabral remains an integral part of America's building projects. Our quality products, advanced LEAN manufacturing processes and dedicated customer service have helped Fabral become one of the top metal cladding suppliers in the U.S.

By Emma Peterson. 

Save time, reduce stress and keep projects on track by ordering through McElroy Metal.  

We’ve all had it happen before, a truck is late, something comes damaged and your entire project timeline is thrown off and customer confidence is shaken. That’s why having a reliable supplier is incredibly important in the roofing and metal construction industries. You want to work with a supplier that makes it a priority to get you the products you need, when you need them. A supplier like McElroy Metal.  

The team at McElroy Metal knows the importance of their role in keeping your business operating smoothly and go above and beyond to make the ordering and delivery process easier for busy contractors.  

Beyond the order 

The McElroy team’s support starts even before you place your first order. They offer preliminary project estimating and quoting support that will help you understand your material needs and pricing options early in the process. And for a small fee, their expert team offers engineering and drafting services that can ensure accuracy for precise projects.  

Ordering is easy 

Once you are ready to actually make your order, McElroy has a variety of options that allow you to order when and how you want to. For contractors who like 24/7 access, the McElroy online ordering platform allows them to do everything from their office. Prefer to call or talk to a team member? The McElroy Service Center is ready to answer questions and help you get all the materials you need.  

Delivery time!  

Lead times vary depending on the contents of your order. Commonly used accessories or trims might come as quick as next-day. More custom projects often take longer, as the McElroy team wants to make sure everything meets a high-quality standard. 

Once your materials are ready, every panel and component is packaged up carefully to avoid damages as it travels. Most frequently, these packages are sent to the nearest McElroy Service Center for holding. The McElroy team understands the challenge of keeping a job site organized when you have to store materials on site, so their Service Centers have been designed to “serve as local staging hubs, allowing contractors to pick up materials in phases as the project progresses.” 

After the sale 

And, even after your order makes it safely to your job site, the McElroy team is there to support you. Have questions about installation, troubleshooting, warranties, accessories, technical documents or replacement items? The McElroy team will support you through field visits, expert reviews and more.  

Learn more about how McElroy makes metal material ordering easier than ever!

By Emma Peterson. 

From an action‑packed expo floor to standout speakers and special events, here’s what to expect at this year’s NFBA show.  

Join more than 1,000 post-frame professionals at the 2026 National Frame Builders Association (NFBA)’s annual conference and expo! This year’s show will be hosted from February 25 to 27 at the Oklahoma City Convention Center in Oklahoma and is sponsored by leading companies like Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings and McElroy Metal. It's the 58th year NFBA has hosted the show and promises to be a hub for professionals wanting to “find new products, learn best practices and network with colleagues.” 

Explore the expo 

Always a highlight of the show, the expo floor at this year’s conference is full of innovative products and engaging manufacturers. MetalCoffeeShop® will be there in the foyer, so make sure to stop by and say hello to our incredible team!  

Additionally, a lot of our industry friends will be at the show, including but not limited to Everlast Roofing (Booth 645), Dripstop (Booth 937), K-9 Fasteners (Booth 232), MARCO Industries (Booth 201), MetalForming (Booth 903), Progressive Metals (Booth 745) and S-5! (booth 743).  

Check out the full expo floor map!

Level up your learning 

And the expansive expo is just the tip of the iceberg of what the NFBA conference has to offer attendees! On Tuesday (February 24), NFBA will be hosting certification testing in room 104, which is a great opportunity to take your skills and reputation to the next level.  

Then, on Wednesday (February 25) and Thursday (February 26), there will be 13 hours of educational breakout sessions per day. These sessions cover everything from business management to technical skills. Some of our industry friends are even leading some sessions, like Paul and Emily Marshall (two of our incredible MCS Influencers who you might also know as Mr. and Mrs. Post Frame).  

You can find the full schedule of education sessions online.

Exceptional events 

And, throughout the entire three days of the show, there are a variety of special events. Some of the highlights include:  

• Keynote speaker: Wednesday morning (10:45 a.m. - 12:45 p.m.) will see Dr. Anirban Basu of Sage Policy Group deliver a powerful keynote all about the economic state of the industry. His talk will “deliver timely economic outlooks, industry-relevant analysis and forward-looking insights to help attendees better understand what’s ahead — and how to prepare their businesses for it.” 
• 2026 Women in Post Frame Meet & Greet: Later that day (February 25), NFBA will be hosting their much-anticipated Women in Post-Frame Meet & Greet at the Petroleum Club (transport provided for registered attendees). This casual event is a great way to make connections with other professionals who understand the experiences you have had.  
• Awards Luncheon: On Thursday, February 26 from 11:45 a.m. to 1:15 p.m., NFBA will host their annual awards luncheon. This ticketed event recognizes “exceptional performance-based accomplishments by [NFBA] members” with awards like Building of the Year, Excellence in Safety and the Bernon G. Perkins Award. 
• 2026 NFBA Foundation Auction: Closing the night on Thursday (7-10 p.m.) is the NFBA Social and Foundation Auction. The goal of the Foundation is to raise awareness of the post-frame industry by supporting education and industry advancements. This year’s theme is rodeo, so grab your hat and boots and get ready for a fun night in support of a good cause.  
• Friday fun: The last day of the show (February 27) will have a variety of expo floor competitions as well as the grand prize drawing. Whether you’re participating or cheering on from the crowd, the Screw-Driving Competition (10 a.m.) and the Nail-Pounding Competition (11 a.m.) are can’t miss events.  

If you haven’t already, make sure you are registered for this year’s NFBA conference and expo!

Working with insurance companies can be a hassle, but EasyFrame Metal Buildings are the ideal solution for buyers looking for a reliable structure that meets all of the criteria for their insurance policy.  

It’s not easy working with insurance companies, especially when it comes to financing a building project. Standards must be met, both financially and with the quality of materials going into the structure. EasyFrame Metal Buildings from McElroy Metal are the ultimate solution for those looking to get the most out of their investment, both now and in the long run. 

This article provides a general understanding of how insurance companies determine rates and how EasyFrame Metal Buildings can offer savings compared to other building types. 

While not always the case, EasyFrame Metal Buildings often boast a cheaper insurance rate than a traditional post-frame building. In turn, it's worth taking the time to talk to local agents and get a sense of how EasyFrame Metal Buildings stack up to other building types in your market. 

What matters to the insurance companies 

Anyone who has ever purchased insurance knows that there is no simple formula for calculating rates. Insurance costs are based on several factors that are constantly in flux. These factors include the structure's location, age, value and the risk of theft or damage. 

When it comes to damage, the most common risk factors are: 

• Hail  
• Heavy winds (including tornadoes and hurricanes) 
• Water/ flooding 
• Fire 
• Ice and snow loads 
• Termites 

In each of these circumstances, steel offers a significant advantage over wood structures. 

Combustibility 

The primary risk factor when it comes to insurance is fire resistance. Insurance companies classify buildings based on their combustibility. If your building is less than 15,000 square feet, your insurance rate will be based primarily on this classification. 

• Construction Class 1, frame: "Buildings with exterior walls of noncombustible or slow-burning construction with combustible floors and roof or walls and roofs with composite assemblies that include both combustible and noncombustible materials." 
• Construction Class 2, joined masonry: "Exterior walls are constructed of fire-resistive materials rated at not less than one hour or masonry with combustible floors and roof." 
• Construction Class 3, noncombustible: "Exterior walls, floors and roof are constructed of noncombustible or slow-burning materials or are supported by noncombustible or slow-burning supports." 
• Construction Class 4, masonry noncombustible: "Exterior walls of fire-resistive construction rated at not less than one hour or masonry not less than four inches thick, with noncombustible or slow-burning floors and roof." 
• Construction Class 5, modified fire resistive: "Exterior walls, floors and roof constructed of materials described in Construction Class 6 fire-resistive, but there are deficiencies in thickness and a fire resistance rating of less than two hours, but not less than one hour." 
• Construction Class 6, fire-resistive: "Solid masonry walls not less than four inches thick or hollow masonry walls not less than eight inches thick or assemblies with a fire resistance rating of not less than two hours. The floor and roof assemblies have a fire resistance rating of not less than two hours. Horizontal and vertical load-bearing, protected metal supports with a fire resistance rating of not less than two hours. Includes pre-stressed or post-tensioned concrete units." 

EasyFrame Metal Buildings are typically considered Class 3 and will have lower risk and rates than Classes 1-2. 

Class 4-6 buildings have even less risk for fire, but the cost of materials going from Class 3 to 4-6 is much greater than the gap between Class 1-2 and Class 3. 

It's important to note that using less fire-resistant materials on your building may negate or impact your insurance rating negatively. EasyFrame Metal Buildings are engineered so this negative rating will not happen due to our all-steel structure. 

Additional risk factors 

If your building is over 15,000 square feet, other factors such as weather and natural disasters will have a bigger impact on your insurance rate. Steel structures typically receive a more favorable rating than wood. 

• Earthquakes: Steel buildings offer greater strength against earthquakes than wood structures. Metal buildings tend to be less expensive and faster to rebuild in the event of a disaster, another positive consideration for insurance rates. 
• Wind: Cold-formed steel buildings originated in Australia, where wind loads in cyclonic regions (C and D) are equal to or greater than the Florida hurricane codes. EasyFrame Metal Buildings are engineered to meet these rigid demands. 
• Ice/snow loads: When it comes to snow and ice, steel offers greater strength than wood structures. EasyFrame Metal Buildings are engineered to meet the rigid standards of heavy snow regions across the United States and even Canada. 
• Hail: Steel offers superior impact resistance protection that will not decrease over time. 
• Water damage: Steel does not rot like wood and is not susceptible to mold, a significant advantage over wood structures. 
• Termites: Insurance estimates put the average cost for termite damage in homes at $3000 per claim. Suffice it to say that with a steel frame, the risk of termite damage to the EasyFrame structure of a building is zero. 

Commercial properties 

Insurance companies take a broader approach when writing an insurance policy for commercial structures. The key factors in a commercial policy can be summed up with the acronym COPE: construction, occupancy, protection and exposure. 

• Construction predominantly refers to the building materials. As we've already addressed, EasyFrame Metal Buildings are typically rated as Class 3: Non-combustible, which results in a favorable rating compared to wood. 
• Occupancy considers the number of people a building can hold and the building's purpose. Buildings used to store or process combustible materials, such as a grain mill, will hurt their rate as a result. A steel structure will not negate these factors but will offer a better rate than one built with less fire-resistant materials. 
• Protection refers to both public and private fire protection. 
• Public: The insurance company considers your building's proximity to the nearest fire station, the caliber of the available fire department, the availability of water supply and other factors that may impact a response from first responders. 
• Private: Insurance also considers fire safety systems, including sprinklers, fire alarms, fire doors and fire extinguishers. 
• Exposure relates to the external hazards, including natural disasters and man-made hazards, such as local infrastructure and local crime rates. While the use of steel offers superior protection against wind, snow and other environmental risks, there's no direct impact, good or bad, when it comes to man-made hazards. 

Consumer history 

Insurance companies run a credit check and review the property owner's history to determine whether the individual is a good risk. Bad credit, a poor claims history and other factors can also negatively impact the price of insurance. 

A consumer's history would obviously have a negative impact on any building type, so a buyer perceived as a risk would likely still pay less for a steel structure, provided they're not using combustible materials on the exterior. 

EasyFrame Metal Buildings advantages 

When it comes to the most critical factors that matter to insurance, EasyFrame Metal Buildings offer significant advantages over wood structures. Combustibility is often the primary concern, but other factors, such as wind and snow loads, water damage and termites, are also top considerations. 

Steel buildings typically offer savings over wood structures in terms of insurance costs. That said, every building is unique based on its geographic location, intended purpose and even the buyer's history. Consult with a local insurance agent to get a better gauge on the value of EasyFrame Metal Buildings in your market before sharing any specifics with your buyers. 

Original article source: McElroy Metal