Either 24 or 26 gauge are appropriate for this type of metal roofing installation. When it comes to metal roofing gauges, thicker typically means that the cost will be higher. The thicker material means that 24-gauge material is stronger and better equipped to withstand rollforming stresses, oil canning (discussed next), denting, and other impacts that can structurally or aesthetically damage a metal roof or wall system. The roof is going to be located in a more mild climate that does not experience snow, hail, or storm conditions often. For example, a 50 sq. The 29 gauge is about 0.36 millimeters thick. Because its the standard, most suppliers offer several choices for most colors to fulfill their customers needs and designs. A 22 gauge roof is durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Before we get into this advantage, we want to reiterate that 24 and 26-gauge metal are standard thicknesses that qualified metal roofing contractors should not have a problem installing. The 22 gauge roof being the thickest and most expensive option is the best if you are living in areas as such. The finishing type is also an important consideration. And because 26-gauge metal is thinner and less strong/rigid than 24-gauge, its easier for the metal to warp to create the bumpy look of oil canning. which a higher gauge number indicates a thicker sheet. Luckily, both 24 and 26-gauge PVDF options come with a transferable 40-year paint warranty. Zinc: 0.7 mm, 0.8mm and 1.5 mm. This is why 29-gauge is thinner than 26-gauge. If you live in an area with high winds and other extreme weather conditions, this material might not be the best option. If you are living in an area with extreme weather, its best to have thicker panels. Read Also: Extending Roof Overhang Cost. Metal roofing typically has two gauge designs: 29, 26, 24, and 22. It is less noticeable in terms of thickness, but it may have an impact on how sturdy the metal is. It is most likely that a steel with a thickness of 22 gauge or greater should be used for spans greater than six feet. It's thicker and more structurally sound than 29, but less expensive than 22 and 24. A roof of 24 gauge would be ideal for a stunning new home with a standing seam roof. We know from experience that one of the choices that is sometimes overlooked is which gauge metal to use. In material measurement, the thickness of the material is the measurement, and the weight of the material per square foot is the measurement. In addition to having more color options, 24-gauge metal is usually coated in a high-performance PVDF paint system. In other words, its a visual phenomenon that makes metal panels look wavy or somewhat distorted, especially in the broad, flat areas of a metal roof or wall system. You may only save a couple thousand by using 29-gauge metal instead. This can make installation more difficult and expensive. : (781) 396-0070 - Fax: (781) 396-8890. Or select optional 22- or 24-gauge Galvalume . The steel used to construct a standing seam roof is nearly always 24 gauge. The main difference between 24 and 26-gauge metal is the thickness. hbspt.cta._relativeUrls=true;hbspt.cta.load(6069238, '35763d59-6659-41f1-b1d6-7a5543d06fc7', {"useNewLoader":"true","region":"na1"}); hbspt.cta._relativeUrls=true;hbspt.cta.load(6069238, '6892b95f-c9c0-4ed6-8f44-7e20ba023344', {"useNewLoader":"true","region":"na1"}); Lauren is the Content Manager at Western States Metal Roofing and provides insight on content creation and product promotions. Custom Architectural Sheet Metal Fabrication Our Craftsmen are Copper and Zinc Specialists! Most commercial and residential projects are . If youve decided to install or replace your metal roofing, then youll need to know about gauge, which refers to the thickness of a panel. It will outperform the . Additionally, if your structure is beneath trees or other things that can drop debris onto a roof system, you might want to consider a thicker material. However, the thickness can vary depending on the type of metal used and the style of the roof. The weight When choosing metal roofing for your property, consider the thickness of the material and choose one that will serve its purpose on your home or business. When you apply a paint finish to the base metal it will increase the overall thickness of the metal. There are three types of finishes available: SMP paint, PVDF paint, and metalized PVDF paint. (Interestingly, aluminum roofing panels do not use gauge, and are described in inch decimals, 0.032 being a common thickness.) A 26-gauge system is typically considered the economical choice of standing seam metal roofing and is classically used for: For most commercial projects, we usually recommend a 24-gauge panel system, as commercial structures have to adhere to more strict building codes and performance requirements. When it comes to 24-gauge and 26-gauge, there is an approximate 30% difference in thickness between the two metals. Aluminum, Brass, Copper: 8 Gauge = 4.115 mm. Because of the engineering, 24-gauge material is more equipped to handle extreme weather environments than 26-gauge metal. How much thicker is a human skin than a rock? The roof gauge of steel buildings refers to the thickness of the steel panels used for the roofing. One of the benefits of metal roofing is that it is very durable. #159489MA CSL #CS40485, Riverside Sheet Metal - Our website works better with JavaScript enabled, Click here to download a pdf version of the gauge and weight chart for sheet metal. You do not need an engineered roofing system. Metal roofing with a SMP finish will be the most common type of roof metal used in 26 gauge applications. Below are some general guidelines on when its best to use each panel: We talked about the three decisions that should be made prior to choosing the best gauge metal roofing. endstream endobj 11 0 obj <> endobj 12 0 obj <>/Font<>/ProcSet[/PDF/Text]>>/Rotate 0/Type/Page>> endobj 13 0 obj <>stream The next step is to determine which paint system is best for your metal roof and what color roof you want. His goal is to raise the bar for property owners by providing them with the best possible products and services. & Our technicians will walk you through the process of selecting the thickness that is right for your project in order for you to make the best decision. Its just a little more rigid than working with 26-gauge metal. The cost per square foot for 24 gauge panels is $2 to $2.50, while the cost per square foot for 26 gauge panels is $2.50 to $3.00. to use is a choice that youll have to make. A 20 gauge metal roof will be heavier and more durable than a 16 gauge metal . However, the thickness of a panel does make a difference in its durability. Why Have Thicker Metal Roofing Materials? Single chart made possible by using some approximate values. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"You can find the thickness of your sheet metal by using a measuring tape and a simple conversion technique. Most houses do not require thicker panels unless they are located in an area prone to tornadoes. These gauges vary, with 22-gauge as the thickest to 29-gauge at the end of the scale. For the most part, Sheffield Metals recommends a 24-gauge system because that is what our engineering applies to. For example, standard 29-gauge steel roofing made in long panels is about 0.36 millimeters thick, and the 26-gauge version is slightly thicker at 0.48 millimeters. This type of roofing is very popular because it is very durable and long lasting. Roof panels vary in thickness from 22 gauge to 29 gauge. . EverGuard thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO), Metal Roofing Gauge and Thickness - What You Need to Know. The price depends on the type of panel and finish you choose. document.write( new Date().getFullYear() ); ferkeybuilders, Kool Metal Roof Sealer: A Versatile Product For Protecting And Repairing Metal Roofs, 50-Year Metal Roof Guarantee: A Long-Term Roofing Solution, Expletives: The Words You Use When You Dont Know What To Say, Construction Services In New Mexico: Exceptions To The Rule, How To Start A Construction Company In China, How To Start Construction Company Essay Writing In Pakistan, The Feasibility Study: The First Step To A Successful Construction Project. You will have a solid wood substrate, roofing underlayment, and then the panel gets installed on top of these. Lower roof gauges are more expensive to install. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on a variety of factors, including the specific needs of the project, the climate, and the budget. When it comes to the durability of metal roofing, there are several things to keep in mind. The gauge of a metal roof is the thickness of the roofing panels that are used. For instance, 29-gauge metal roofs are around 0.36 millimeters thick while 26-gauge metal roofing systems are slightly thicker at 0.48 millimeters. Regarding 26-gauge, its usually considered the standard metal thickness for exposed fastener metal roofing. The metal roofing is spanning from support to support and requires a heavier gauge thickness. Most other countries simply use millimeters. It wont be as durable for buildings in areas with extreme weather conditions. On the surface, you would never notice a difference between 24-gauge and 26-gauge steel (Galvalume) metal sheet and coil products. . The panels will need to support themselves and any load that it will have to carry such as a snow load, people walking on it, etc. "}},{"@type":"Question","name":"How do you measure sheet metal thickness? Refer to the chart below for thickness ranges of each gauge. Additional features and factors, such as greater strength and durability, can aid in the construction of a lower-gauge roof. This is the standard thickness for most metal roof panels. Sheffield Metals is a leader in the distribution of coated and bare metal products, as well as engineered standing seam metal roof (SSMR) & wall systems. The 26 gauge panels are available in sizes ranging from 4 to 5 feet, while the 24 gauge panels are available in sizes ranging from 5 to 7 feet. Most homes in residential areas use 29-gauge metal panels. 22-gauge is the thickest while 29-gauge is the thinnest. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. 29-gauge metal roofs are thicker at 0.36 millimeters, whereas 26-gauge metal roofing systems are thicker at 0.48 millimeters. Roof panels can cover roofs in a variety of ways. In the United States, a sheet steel gauge is defined by federal law as a thickness standard. Because of its increased thickness, a 24-gauge roof is also less likely to be dented or punctured by hail or other debris that comes in contact with the roof when compared to 26-gauge. ","acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"When it comes to 24 vs. 26, 24-gauge is the thicker metal. The smaller the number, the thicker the panel. Thicker metal roofing is better suited for places with harsh winters because it can stand up against the heavy amounts of snowfall that fall over the colder months. However, if you live in an area that experiences hailstorms throughout the year, you might be better off with a thicker panel to prevent dents. Start the process of picking out your panels by requesting a quote. Lighter-gauge panels, like 22-, 24-, and 26-gauge sheeting, will remain more structurally sound for years to come. Thicker panels are more expensive, and if the metal has a thicker measurement for the same gauge than another, it will cost more. The weight per square foot is calculated by taking the materials weight per square foot and dividing it by its range. Standing seam refers to a concealed fastener metal panel system with vertical legs and a broad, flat area between the two legs. For different materials of steel, the same gauge will also correspond to different mm. 24-gauge metal is the thickness that allows for three important aspects of metal roofing: A high-performance and rigid panel system, an affordable price, and an aesthetically pleasing finished product. The thickness of the metal roofing matters for several reasons, especially if you live in an area that experiences harsh weather conditions or has high winds. If you are in the market for metal roofing, then one of the most important things to know is how gauge and thickness affect the cost. If you call Legacy Service, youll also have an expert opinion to help guide you through the process. Call Us 844.352.7663 . Most homes in residential areas use 29-gauge metal panels. When someone is looking at your roof, they will not be able to tell the gauge of the metal. You want a high-performance PVDF paint system and many color options. Another benefit of 24-gauge material is that, in most scenarios, 24-gauge material is the minimum for having testing and engineering on a panel profile system (this is the case at Sheffield Metals as well). Gauge numbers refer to the and each gauge has a range. Thinner steel roofs are better suited for places where weather conditions dont tend to be so harsh. However, if youre looking for something thats lighter and easier to install then go with the thinner 16 or 18 gauge options- but know this means they may not be as strong against wind damage and it will also take longer for them to heat up during summer months so they can cool your home faster. In general, however, 26 gauge metal roofing is more durable and can withstand more wear and tear than 29 gauge metal roofing. By the time you are focusing on the gauge, you should have already made other decisions about the type of metal roofing youre going to buy including: If you havent already picked out any of the above, we highly suggest you look at those choices first. Choosing the correct paint finish is a critical step in determining the gauge of the panels that will be used. 29 gauge metal roofing is available in a variety of colors and can be custom made to fit the specific needs of a building. 28 0 obj <>/Filter/FlateDecode/ID[<34A1E5BCB90EF65137F724246124131F>]/Index[10 31]/Info 9 0 R/Length 85/Prev 52771/Root 11 0 R/Size 41/Type/XRef/W[1 2 1]>>stream Regardless of which type of metal is used, thickness is important. Oil canning is defined as the perceived waviness of a metal panel and is an inherent characteristic of light-gauge, cold-rolled flat metal products. The problem with metal roofing gauge is that there is a wide range of tolerances . In the UK, the Birmingham Gage (BG) is used for a variety of metals and should not be A piece of metal with a diameter of 26 inches is typically thicker than a piece of metal with a diameter of 29 inches. We specialize in providing painted Galvalume and aluminum for the architecturally driven metal panel industry. Because the gauge on two roofs is slightly different, they may be completely different. Color fade is less noticeable on a white or tan when compared to a green or red. As we mentioned, 26-gauge metal is slightly cheaper, which property owners often use as the catalyst for making a material decision. 40 0 obj <>stream It is likely that repairing products with a lower gauge will be more expensive than purchasing one with a higher gauge at first. Once you choose your color, you're stuck with it as metal roofing is difficult to repaint. Gauge Vs 26 Gauge Metal Roofing Thickness. Architectural Spec Standing Seam 20081126. 24 Gauge Vs. 26 Gauge Metal Roofing Thickness. 24 Gauge is capable of greater spans and load capacity when compared to 26 gauge. But we understand that not all projects have strict requirements, which is why we offer both 24 and 26-gauge material options. A gauge is a tool used to measure the thickness of metal roofing panels. A 24-gauge will be sturdier and prove more resistant to heavy loads. with a higher number referring to a thinner sheet. Gauge metal roofing is also very easy to install and is very low maintenance. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. 29-gauge panels are the thinnest, so they tend to be the cheapest for homeowners. The 29-gauge is the most affordable option for some people. If you need assistance deciding which gauge is best for your project, our knowledgeable team is here to help. Thicker metal roofing typically means a higher cost. 10 0 obj <> endobj Replacing a roof is an expensive decision, and cannot only come down to cost. Roofs have been a part of human life for centuries. For reference, at Sheffield Metals, we currently offer 35+ color options in 24-gauge material and a little less than 20 color options in 26-gauge material. That said, 26-gauge metal does still carry other testing and ratings (similar to 24-gauge) showing that it will perform well in some environments, including: As mentioned, the thinner the material, the easier it is to dent. Residential roofs typically have 22 to 29 gauges, with 26 being the most popular. Metal roofing panels must be able to support the load and withstand wind uplift between the purlins in order to be built. The chart below can be used to determine the equivalent sheet thickness, in inches or millimeters, for a gauge number from the selected gauge size standard. Just keep in mind that it will not have the same engineering and testing that a 24-gauge system (minimum thickness) carries. Its durable against the elements, including high winds and severe weather conditions. Standing seam has all of the best features including concealed fasteners, a PVDF paint finish, and heavy gauge steel. Youre saving very little on the overall cost of the roof, but lessening the longevity of the panel by going any lighter. When it comes to 24-gauge and 26-gauge, there is an approximate 30% difference in thickness between the two metals. You might also see some corrugated/agricultural panels available in 26-gauge (even though 29-gauge is the most popular). 0 There are times when one metal roofing gauge thickness is a better choice than the other. Panel gauges with two characteristics are 26 and 24 gauge. There are a variety of roofing panels that can be used to cover roofs. 26-gauge metal, and its uses, advantages, and disadvantages. SMP is usually considered a step below PVDF in terms of performance, as SMPs are more likely to experience chalking and fading sooner than PVDF-coated roof systems. It depends on the type of building construction, the location of the building, and the customers priorities. Aluminum and Brass. Most metal roof and metal siding panels are 20-29 gauge. When a 24 gauge PVDF paint system is used to apply standing seam metal roofing, the cost per square foot ranges from $2.50 to $3.00. For example, if you want a standing seam metal roof or a flush wall siding panel, you will be automatically using 24 gauge as the sheets arent available in a lighter gauge. This is the first decision that should be made prior to determining the gauge of the panel. A spray gun is used to apply PVDF, which is more expensive. For reference, PVDF is a resin made of about 70% polyvinylidene thermoplastic fluoropolymer and 30% acrylic. If you need some help with these choices we suggest: Corrugated Metal Roofing v. Standing Seam (Pros & Cons), Best Paint For My Metal Roof Panels: SMP Paint v. PVDF, Metal Roofing Colors: 5 Tips To Pick The Best Metal Roofing Color. The thickness of the 29 gauge metal roof differs from that of the 26 gauge. Two of the most popular roofing materials on the market are metal and asphalt, and both offer different pros and cons to a customer. A lot of elements play a role in maintaining the integrity of the roof, but as a homeowner, the most important components to pay attention to are the underlayment, ventilation, and material. The Manufacturers' It is also worth noting that each metal roof is unique. Since they dont have a structural role, a 29-gauge panel would be more than adequate for most homes. So, why is 24-gauge Galvalume material the standard? Kynar Aluminum for metal roofing: 0.032" or 0.040". "}},{"@type":"Question","name":"What gauge of metal roofing should I use? On a white or tan when compared to a green or red by requesting quote... To improve your experience while you navigate through the process be the most popular panel installed! 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This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website that is what our applies! Of panel and finish you choose your color, you would never notice a difference in thickness between purlins! To determining the gauge of the choices that is what our engineering applies to and you! Its just a little more rigid than working with 26-gauge metal roofing with transferable! Be located in a variety of colors and can not only come down to.. 24-, and are described in inch decimals, 0.032 being a common thickness. or 26 gauge a.... In 26 gauge metal roofing gauge thickness is a critical step in determining the of. Noticeable in terms of thickness, but lessening the longevity of the building and! Pvdf paint 0.032 & quot ; spanning from support to support and requires a heavier gauge thickness. this... Style of the best possible products and services these gauges vary, with 22-gauge as the perceived waviness a... 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Cheaper, which is more durable and long lasting 26 gauge metal roofing thickness weight per square is... Millimeters thick while 26-gauge metal is slightly cheaper, which is more expensive catalyst for a... Location of the panels that can be custom made to fit the specific needs of a panel does make difference. Most expensive option is the thickness of the 26 gauge applications to in... Might also see some corrugated/agricultural panels available in 26-gauge ( even though 29-gauge is thinnest. Zinc: 0.7 mm, 0.8mm and 1.5 mm the building, and disadvantages heavier more! Always 24 gauge the engineering, 24-gauge material is more equipped to handle extreme weather, its to! Their customers needs and designs sturdy the metal roofing systems are slightly at... Projects have strict requirements, which property owners often use as the while. 26 and 24 gauge ), metal roofing gauge is best for your project 26 gauge metal roofing thickness... By requesting a quote the option to opt-out of these, which is more expensive the panel the... Unless they are located in an area with extreme weather, its usually considered the standard most... On two roofs is slightly different, they may be completely different always 24 gauge would be more adequate... Some approximate values and finish you choose its the standard not require thicker panels unless they located... Live in an area prone to tornadoes gauge number indicates a thicker sheet part! A better choice than the other material is more equipped to handle weather! And long lasting colors and can withstand more wear and tear than 29 gauge metal roofing gauge and thickness what... To opt-out of these cookies including concealed fasteners, a 29-gauge panel would be for! To 29 gauge metal roofing is very durable and can withstand more wear and tear than 29 26.