Author: Eco-Insulated Panel Manufacturing Inc.

Lifespan of Insulated Roof Panel

How Long Can A Roof Made Of Insulated Panels Last?

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Lifespan of Insulated Roof Panel

The use of insulated panels can span far beyond commercial applications. Homeowners are beginning to enjoy the benefits of insulated panels too! Insulated roof panels are not only economical, but also provide unrivaled R-values and energy efficiency. Who  doesn’t enjoy utility bills? What else do IRPs bring to the table, and how long can you expect your roof to last when utilizing them?

1. What Are Insulated Roof Panels?

Insulated roof panels consist of metal panels with steel skins and an insulating foam core. This foam core, usually PIR or PUR foam, adds a layer of insulation to buildings which increases their overall energy efficiency. Insulated roof panels are not only known for their superior thermal properties, but also their design flexibility, strength, and quick installation time.

2. What Makes Insulated Roof Panels So Durable?

Insulated roof panels are weather-sealed and provide a strong thermal and moisture barrier. This makes them far less susceptible to damage from the elements overtime. Wood shingles can and do weather and in addition, mold, and moss has a tendency grow on the shingles which are in shaded areas. Concrete tile roofs may seem like the most durable roofing material, however, they suffer from problems brought on by freeze/thaw cycles in northern climates. 

3. How Long Do Metal Roof Panels Last?

Overall, IRPs provide a long lifespan that can be upwards of 60 years. Many even come with a 50 year warranty. Compare this with the 12 to 20 year lifespan of premium traditional roofing materials. With insulated roof panels, your home shouldn’t need a roof replacement for a long time. 

4. Speaking Of Elements, IRPs are Fire-Resistant.

Additionally, metal roof panels provide exceptional fire resistance. The panels are made from non-combustible steel, preventing the spread of fire to your house. Fire-resistant roofing is a must if you’re located in an area that’s prone to wildfires.

5. IRPs Are Cost-Effective.

If you are looking to maximize your ROI, IRPs should be your first choice of roofing material. The use of these panels results in far less utility costs and maintenance investment over time. Providing you with significant cost savings in the long run compared to traditional roofing materials.

Planning to install a metal roof? We can help. Contact our qualified team of professionals at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.

Which Projects Are Best For IMPs

Which Projects Are Best For IMPs?

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Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs) are the ultimate option for a single step, factory insulated, energy saving construction material. IMPs are an all-in-one single element panel system that can be used for walls, partitions, ceilings, and even roof applications. The leading innovative structural material, metal panels are durable, economical and quick to install. So which construction projects find themselves utilizing IMPs the most?

Commercial or Industrial Buildings

Recreational buildings, manufacturing facilities, even institutional and government buildings are all excellent candidates for construction with IMP. Large schools or retail centers can directly benefit from the excellent insulation and energy efficiency of IMPs. The ease of installation means these buildings can also be completed more quickly than when using traditional construction materials. 

Architecturally Unique Buildings

From an architectural design standpoint, IMPs offer a superior advantage. With these panels, architects can incorporate tailored shapes, unique colors or finishes, and an endless array of custom fabrication. This can mean curved panels, trimless ends, or unexpected integrated materials. When incorporating IMPs, you are also incorporating multiple applications and design opportunities. Designers and architects everywhere can truly create one-of-a-kind buildings.

Climate Controlled Facilities

IMPs are considered the ultimate solution for climate-controlled facilities. Whether that’s a greenhouse, storage building, distribution facility, or a manufacturing plant. IMPs have the ability to meet your specific thermal performance need. Aside from varying thicknesses, high performance coatings can be applied to improve the buildings energy efficiency. For buildings dealing with perishable items, special panels and joint designs can be utilized to meet hygiene and contamination requirements.

Insulated Roofs

Roofs constructed with IMPs provide the greatest insulation, simplest maintenance, and longest life. Add in that roofs also boast the quickest installation for commercial and industrial roofing applications. The essentially two-step installation process speeds means less labor and reduces the materials required for construction; lowering the overall carbon footprint of the roof.

Top of the line insulation, accelerated construction timelines, and environmentally responsible; there really is no building project that wouldn’t benefit from utilizing Insulated Metal Panels. Are you considering IMPs for your next building project? Contact our qualified team of professionals at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.

Are Metal Roofs Noisy

Are Metal Roofs Noisy?

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May be one of the most frequently asked questions regarding metal roofs. “Are metal roofs noisy?” Well. Individuals who are looking for the solace of a gentle rain on their new metal roof could be disappointed. The theory that a metal roof is “noisy” stems from the memory of a barn, where there is nothing between an individual and the roof except air. So what make the metal roofs today different? 

How Metal Roofs Today Aren’t Noisey

It is with few exceptions that modern metal roofing is installed without some form of underlying material that absorbs sound. And in a re-roofing situation, metal is often installed over an existing layer or two of shingles. So when you consider the multiple layers of shingles, roof deck, attic air space and the insulation above the ceiling…it’s hard to believe a homeowner could hear anything at all! 

What If I Like The Sound of Rain?

A metal roof installed over open framing will register a louder sound than panels that are installed over a solid roof deck. This is because the roof deck literally absorbs or muffles the sound. So, if you like the sound of the rain, let your Contractor know! In this instance, the roof can be installed to enhance the noise you desire.

What Are The Other Benefits of Metal Roofs?

Aside from a quiet nights sleep, owners of metal roofs can enjoy numerous benefits! Heating and cooling amounts to one of the largest expenses homeowners face. Metal roofs, especially those containing a reflective finish or “cooler” color, can reduce the heat absorbed by your home in the summer, while helping the home retain the temperature inside when it’s cooler. Metal roofs also offer a longer lifespan than traditional roofing materials. And when they’ve lived their life? They are still 100% recyclable! Talk about a return on your investment. Pair this with their limitless design capabilities, and you’ve got yourself the perfect roofing material.

Metal roofs are the building material to choose if you want a long-standing foundation that will cost you fewer resources and money over time. Are you interested in learning more about your metal panel options? Contact our qualified team of professionals at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.

Metal Wall Panels

How Metal Panels Reduce Construction Costs

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With their simplicity of concept, design flexibility, efficient construction, and long-term performance, it is easy to see why metal panels are the superior choice for today’s buildings. In fact, metal panels have even proven themselves to reduce construction costs. Why are these metal panels so much more cost effective than other building materials? Let’s find out!

Quicker To Assemble

A building constructed using metal panels can be erected far quicker than buildings using timber or concrete. The panels arrive pre-manufactured and pre-engineered for construction. Meaning they are both easy to place and precise in measurement already. There will be no unexpected surprises or adjustments needed to be made. You can expect construction time of a building utilizing metal panels to be reduced, both by time and by dollars, by about 20% to 40%.

Metal Panels Are Cost-Effective

Metal panels are all around more cost effective than other building materials, hands down. Since they are pre-fabricated, there is very little waste leftover. Compared to the many pieces of wood or gallons of concrete leftover on some job sites. Since the panels are so lightweight, less labor is needed to erect the structure. Compare this to the many men and pieces of machinery required to assemble other buildings. Metal panels provide the opportunity to save money at every stage of the construction process.

Metal Panels Are Strong

Metal panels are strong and durable; able to withstand strong winds, repel water, and contain fire. Traditional buildings made from wood or brick, however, encounter many repair needs throughout their lifetime. Especially when faced with mold, rotting, warping, pests, and extreme weather. Metal panels also deteriorate far less quickly than brick or wood. Your metal panel structure will save countless dollars over the long term without the need for sealing, caulking, re-roofing, painting… The list goes on.

Higher Energy Efficiency

Metal buildings have been designed with keeping energy efficiency in mind. Features such as cool metal roofs help in preventing the rise of heat. Reducing the heat island effect produced by concrete and other traditional roofing material. Improving indoor air quality, increasing efficiency, and reducing the need for electricity when paired properly with windows and skylights. All of these steps lead to substantial energy conservation and cost savings in the long term.


Metal panels are the building material to choose if you want a long-standing foundation that will cost you fewer resources and money over time. Are you interested in learning more about your metal panel options? Contact our qualified team of professionals at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.

Why Choose Insulated Panels For Roofing

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Once used primarily for commercial projects, metal is now one of the fastest-growing materials used for residential roofing. The Metal Roofing Alliance estimated that 750,000 metal roofs were installed in 2015 and it’s only increased since then. It’s easy to see why. Metal roofs are durable, reliable, beautiful, and they will likely last the rest of your life. Need more reasons to choose metal for your roof?

Long Life Span

A traditional asphalt shingle roof will last between 10 and 20 years. A metal roof will last at least three times that. This makes it a great choice for your forever home. It also has great resale value, so whether you’re planning to stay in your home forever or sell soon – it still makes a valuable investment.

Eco Friendly

Nothing beats metal roofs when it comes to sustainability. They are manufactured with 25-95% recycled content and are 100% recyclable at the end of their life. Meanwhile, 20 billion pounds of old asphalt shingles are sent to U.S. landfills every year.

Energy Efficiency

Metal roofs reflect solar radiant heat. This means that heat is not absorbed into your home, and your AC doesn’t have to work as hard to stay cool. Reducing cooling costs by 10 to 25%…sometimes more! Talk about efficiency.

Resale Value

Metal roofs may end up paying for themselves! Homes with metal roofs have higher resale value. This is generally because of the longevity of metal roofs, and the increased value they bring to your home.

Maintenance

Metal roofs are simple. You can rest easy against wind, hail damage, and even fire. While you should continue with your annual inspections, they don’t require as frequent maintenance as other roofing materials do.

Safety

Metal roofs are virtually indestructible and will not spark and ignite into flames during a wildfire or lightning strike. They can also stand up against other elements of Mother Nature, such as high wind, extreme temperatures, or snow and ice buildup. 

Fire Resistant Metal Roofs

Are Metal Roofs Fire Resistant?

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Your home is one of your most important assets. Not only does it house valuable items, but precious memories. As such, you will want to do everything to ensure your home is well protected against expected, and unexpected, threats like fire. While a metal roof is by no means fireproof, it can absolutely boast the title fire resistant. Here’s why!

Fire Resistance Ratings

When it comes to the varying roofing materials, there are Class Systems in place that rate how fire-resistant they are. The material is tested with either the ASTM E108 or the UL 790 Fire Tests of Roof Coverings., which rate three fire-related qualities of a roofing material:

  • Ability to resist the spread of fire into the attic (or cathedral ceiling) area
  • Ability to resist flame spreading on the roof covering
  • Ability to resist generating burning embers.

Once evaluated, the roof covering is given a rating: Class A, Class B, and Class C, with Class A being the most fire-resistant. Since metal roofing is designated with a Class A fire rating, it is one of the most non-combustible roofing materials, with the greatest strength to stand up to fires. While fire resistance should not be the only determining factor for getting a metal roof, it is an important consideration. This is especially true for homes in areas with a higher risk of wildfires.

Additional Benefits of Metal Roofs

Metal roofs come with a plethora of additional benefits! Including

  • A Long Life Expectancy. Metal roofs can last anywhere from 40 to 70 years. Compare that to the traditional 10 to 20 years of asphalt shingles. An extra advantage to metal is that unlike some roofing materials, age does not reduce its fire resistance. 
  • Metal roofs are both energy efficient and sustainable. A metal roof can help homeowner’s save between 10 and 25% on their heating and cooling bills. On top of being 100% recyclable, they can also easily support the weight of solar panels and are perfect for creating systems to collect rainwater.
  • Coming in a variety of colors and styles, the wide range of aesthetic options means there’s a metal roof to suit anyone’s personal taste.

Metal roofs offer superior fire resistance. Protecting a structure’s assets and keeping people safe. Are you considering retrofitting your building with metal panels? Contact our qualified team of professionals at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.

Metal Panel Thickness

What Panel Thickness Should You Choose?

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Have you ever heard the term “gauge” when referring to metal panels? Gauge is the term used to define the specific thickness of a metal panel. Like all materials used in construction, metal panels come in a wide array of sizes, shapes, colors, and gauges. One of the first decisions a person considers IMPs will have to decide on is what gauge they would like. So what exactly does that mean and how do you determine the right gauge for your project?

Range of Gauges

The thickness of metal panels can range anywhere from 22-gauge to 29-gauge, with 29 being the thinnest and 22 being the thickest. These gauges are associated with a decimal range. For example, a 26-gauge steel panel can range anywhere from 0.0179” to 0.0217.” This also means that a 26-gauge metal panel from one manufacturer may not be the same thickness as a 26-gauge metal panel from another. Although those seem like small numbers, they represent a noticeable difference in panel stiffness and strength.

When to Choose a Thinner Gauge

Almost all homes have a layer of plywood or something similar, covered by a weather-resistant barrier. In this case, the metal panels will be affixed to the sheathing as opposed to serving a structural role. A quality 29-gauge panel is more than adequate for this situation; which is why it’s used on nearly 80 percent of homes with metal panels!

When to Choose a Thicker Gauge

When a building needs to remain structurally sound without the support of sheathing, a thicker gauge is the best option. These gauges are also more forgiving in the event of an installation error, such as over-tightening screws. Thicker trim pieces also lay more accurately. A common combination amongst contractors includes 29-gauge roof and wall panels, accompanied by a 26-gauge trim. However, you can expect to pay more for thicker panels. The cost of a 26-gauge product will be about 15% higher than a 29-gauge with the same profile from the same manufacturer. 

Wondering what gauge of metal panels is right for you? Our qualified team of professionals would be happy to help you! Contact us today at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.

Metal Panels and Fire

Fire and Insulated Metal Panels

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Eco-friendly, lightweight, durable, and fire-resistant. Metal panels come with a multitude of benefits. However, one of these benefits is oftentimes misunderstood: a metal panels ability t to resist heat and flames. In order to fully grasp how metal panels can be a superior choice in terms of safety, one must first understand the different fire resistance ratings and capabilities of metal panels themselves.

Building Code Requirements

Safety is number one, which is why building and fire codes have been developed that determine which degree of fire resistance is required based on the situation, building type, and conditions. In the end, every wall within a structure should provide some degree of fire resistance. This gives people enough time to safely evacuate in the event of a fire. An added precaution would be choosing a material which can also help contain the fire. Preventing the spread throughout the building or neighboring structures. When planning for your structure, be sure to identify what the minimum fire resistance requirement is for your exterior and interior walls to be sure you are complying with all legal codes.

Ratings Are Based on Testing

To establish whether or not a wall meets a particular fire resistance rating, a fire test must be conducted in an independent laboratory. For IMPs, that means a manufacturer needs to submit full-size product samples to a lab, which will then carry out a standard test. The procedures and standards are intended to be the same for all similar materials to ensure an accurate fire resistance rating for each. When the products undergo the designated heat and flame under uniform laboratory conditions, then they can be classified based on how well they performed. Some products, for example, may survive the test long enough to qualify for a 1- or 2-hour rating. Others may only qualify for a 30-minute rating before succumbing to the fire.

Selecting A Fire Resistant Metal Panel

Insulated metal panels use thermoset foam cores. These cores don’t melt and have a high degree of fire resistance. With increasing demands for structures that combine contemporary aesthetics, energy efficiency, and safety, insulated metal panels are an effective choice.

Insulated metal panels offer superior fire resistance, protecting a structure’s assets and keeping people safe. Are you considering retrofitting your building with metal panels? Contact our qualified team of professionals at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.

Can You Build a Home Faster with Insulated Panels?

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If your home or building is constructed using insulated panels, you may be wondering why all buildings aren’t constructed this way. Insulated panels create homes and structures that are durable and energy efficient. And once the siding is installed, it is impossible to differentiate a house constructed from IMPs with a conventional one. But are these panels quicker for construction than their timber counterparts?

The Answer Is Yes!

Homes using insulated panels can be constructed considerably quicker than traditionally framed buildings.  A properly trained Structural Insulated Panels (SIP) installation crew can cut framing time by as much as 55%! But what makes construction with these panels so much quicker?

What Is A SIP?

SIPs are an advanced method of construction consisting of an insulating foam core, sandwiched between two structural facings. This kind of panel can be used for walls, roofing and floors. Because these panels are pre-manufactured and easy to erect, construction time is drastically reduced.

7-Day Build

When using SIPS, construction of a typical two-story home will take between five and seven days. This is because SIPs are pre-manufactured to your own requirements. This saves both builders and architects a lot of time on site, while further reducing the number of materials needed for a similar size build. Simply slot the panels together on site and voila! And because less supporting structure is needed, these panels also allow for a more open floor plan.

SIP Flooring?

Yep, these panels can also be used for flooring. They are even designed with the ability for utilities to run through them, meaning no drilling. If aesthetic is a concern, fear not. These panels range in style from metal to timber. And the best part? This flooring can be installed in a matter of hours opposed to the 3 days conventional flooring takes.

It’s not just construction time you can save when building with insulated panels. Builders will also enjoy decreased construction and labor costs, while homeowners will enjoy continuous insulation and better control over air quality. Wondering if insulated panels are right for you? Our qualified team of professionals would be happy to help you! Contact us today at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.

Do Metal Roofs Keep Your House Cooler

Do Metal Roofs Trap Heat?

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Metal roofs are surrounded by misconceptions. From assuming they easily dent to being sure that they will make a lot of noise with wind and rain. Today we are going to debunk another common metal roof myth: the heat debacle. Will a metal roof trap heat and make your house hotter? Let’s find out!

No Metal Roof Is The Same

Before assuming a metal roof will trap heat, consider the vast array of materials metal roofs are made of. A copper roof, for example, will not conduct heat the same way a steel roof would. Aside from the type of metal, the color and ending finish will also have an affect on how much heat the panel retains. These days, there are plenty of finishes certified to reflect sunlight, helping to keep your home cool even when exposed to direct sunlight.

All Roofs Retain Some Heat

Whether asphalt or metal, any material exposed to the sun will retain some heat. The lightest material, however, will return back to its ambient temperature quicker than a heavier one. The longer these materials stay hot, the more heat is transferred to the building beneath.  In terms of roofing materials contributing to heat in a building, once the sun stops shining, metal is the best possible option.

Insulation Matters

Your metal roof is more than just metal. Joints are often made of wood, and other system features are a different material entirely. This is where the insulation comes in. Most metal roof installers account for heat build-up by leaving a space between the roofing system and home underneath where air can accumulate and escape. 

Overall, when it comes to choosing a roof that can help keep your home cool, metal should be your top choice. It provides insulation during the winter, while simultaneously allowing lower demand for air conditioning during the hotter months. Are you ready to make the switch to a metal roof? Contact our qualified team of professionals at 519-451-7663 or info@ecoinsulatedpanels.com.