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Articles by Karen Knapstein
Submit Your Standout Metal Roofing Project to the IDEA Book
Originally Published as: Don’t wait to share your best work If you’ve completed a metal roofing project you’re proud of, don’t wait to send it in to be featured in the magazine and online. Every year, the Metal Roofing IDEA Book gives roofing contractors an opportunity to put their work in front of the people who make up the metal roofing industry. And every year, I’m reminded just how many great projects are out there that we never get to see. Maybe you’ve completed a beautiful residential roof.
Shield Wall Media Business Directory
Here is the 2026 Shield Wall Media Construction Business Directory. This is a free printed issue for subscribers of any of our magazines. To receive next year’s edition, sign up for a free subscription to any of our magazines.
Shield Wall Media Business Directory
Here is the 2026 Shield Wall Media Construction Business Directory. This is a free printed issue for subscribers of any of our magazines. To receive next year’s edition, sign up for a free subscription to any of our magazines.
Building Better Together: Your Voice Shapes Metal Roofing Magazine
Originally Published as: Looking Beyond the Waves If you’ve been around standing seam metal roofing for any length of time, you’ve probably heard the term oil canning. Maybe you’ve seen it on a project, answered questions from a customer about it, or wondered what really causes those subtle waves that sometimes appear in flat metal panels. The truth is, oil canning has been part of the conversation for decades.
The Timeless Appeal of Metal Roofing
Originally Published as: Timeless Metal Metal roofing has always had this way of feeling both classic and current at the same time—and that’s a big part of why it continues to stick around. If you spend any time checking out all the metal roofing projects we publish here in the magazine and online, you start to notice a pattern: styles may shift a little, but the overall look of metal just doesn’t go out of style.
Making Gutters: A Closer Look at the Mach II 6” Portable Roll Former
New Tech Machinery’s (NTM) 6” Mach II machine is the big brother to the company’s 5” model. Prototyped in 1991 and first delivered in 1994, the Mach II has seen a few tweaks, but its separate polyurethane drive and forming rollers, and rugged design are still built on that original, field-proven model. K-Style is the most popular type of gutter in residences and buildings across the country and beyond. The most common K-Style gutter sizes are 5” and 6”.
Gutter Facts: Roof Knowledge Helps with Installing Correct Gutters
Knowledge helps you make the best choices, including gathering all the information you can about the roof when you take on the assignment of installing gutters on a home or commercial building. A glance at the roof should help you understand some of what you need to know. Is it a large roof? Is it steep? Is there a valley or more than one that gathers larger amounts of rainwater to a particular area? Also, what kind of roof is it?
METALCON 2025 offering unique educational sessions
METALCON has a reputation for having something for everybody. This year’s tradeshow certainly lives up to the hype with new and unique learning opportunities on the show floor and off. Steve Clisset of Dragon Armor Shingles in Hotchkiss, Colo., will present Sacred Geometry and Metal Roofing: A Match Made in Heaven (1:30 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 22), focusing on a recently completed signature project.
Networking Events Announced for METALCON 2025
METALCON, the only global event dedicated exclusively to the application of metal in design and construction, is setting the stage for unparalleled professional connection and collaboration at its 2025 tradeshow and conference in Las Vegas, held October 21–23 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.
Sealant Guidance: Choose Wisely to Support Your Metal Roof
The purpose of using sealants when installing a metal roof is to prevent moisture and air infiltration, along with creating a barrier against dirt, dust, and other debris. Any time metal roof panels or accessories overlap or connect, frame an opening, or meet features like fascia, flashing, roof ridges, or walls, the detail needs sealant.
Building Restoration and Renovation with Metal Roofs
During METALCON 2024, industry veteran Todd Miller of Isaiah Industries delivered an insightful presentation on architectural restoration and preservation using metal roofing systems. Todd explored the unique needs of older buildings, explained how metal can meet those needs, and demonstrated why metal is an excellent choice for preserving historic structures. Here’s a recap of some of the key points Todd shared.
2025 Metal of Honor Award Winners Announced
Metal Roofing Magazine announces the 2025 class of Metal of Honor recipients. Marking its 21st year, the Metal of Honor program was created to allow metal roofing professionals the opportunity to bring recognition to and honor the suppliers who help them succeed by providing quality products and excellent service. This year, Metal of Honor awards go to: ABC Supply Co., Inc. AceClamp Acu-Form American Building Components AppliCad Software ASC Machine Tools ASCO USA, Inc.
Residential Roof Seaming
By Karen Knapstein Standing seam metal roofs are a premium choice for homeowners, offering unmatched durability and weather resistance. While the cost of these roofs is significantly higher than asphalt shingles, affluent homeowners and those in specific regions find them a worthwhile investment. Coastal areas demand corrosion resistance and strong uplift ratings, often achieved with aluminum panels and mechanical seaming.
Buildings Of Distinction: Growing the Post-Frame Industry By Promoting the Possibilities
In each year’s April edition, Frame Building News publishes post-frame building projects that exhibit some of the many possibilities for this tried-and-true building system. The tradition of a project-promoting issue began in 2020, the first full year that this magazine operated under the ownership of Shield Wall Media.
Two-Day Metal Roofing Course to Take Place at the University of Wisconsin
Metal roofing expert Rob Haddock presents Metal Roofing Systems at the University of Wisconsin Madison’s School of Engineering on Dec. 5-6, 2024. If you design, install, commission, maintain or repair metal roofing systems, this course will provide you with the tools and techniques to do your job correctly and avoid problems.
Harnessing the Power of Social Media Marketing
In today’s digitally driven landscape, social media has become an indispensable tool for businesses aiming to connect with their audience on a deeper level. Few understand this better than Jessica Haddock, the Marketing Director at S-5!, a global leader in metal roof attachment solutions. In a recent interview, she shared invaluable insights into the pivotal role social media plays in their business strategy.
Metal Minds in Motion Roundtables at METALCON
METALCON is hosting a series of insightful roundtable discussions, each facilitated by an expert member of the Metal Construction Association at 3:00 p.m., on Thursday, October 31 at The Exchange area in the exhibit hall.
Business Building at the Post-Frame Builder Show
By Karen Knapstein Post-frame construction pros gathered for business and pleasure June 19-20 at the first annual Post-Frame Builder Show. Produced by Shield Wall Media, publisher of Frame Building News, attendees, speakers, and exhibitors gathered in Branson, Missouri, from all over the United States to move the post-frame industry forward.
What's New from the Frame Building Expo
By Karen Knapstein For the better part of a week, Iowa was the hub of the post-frame industry. Frame Building Expo (FBE), sponsored by the National Frame Building Association, was held March 6-8 in downtown DesMoines at the Iowa Events Center. The event hosted more than 160 exhibitors on the Expo floor. Several attendees polled said their most important objective was to find new products. If you missed the event but would like to learn about some of the products debuted in Des Moines, read on.
Equine Inspiration: Horse Barns for Animal and Owner Comfort
By Karen Knapstein There must be something in horse dander that makes them so irresistible to some people. Some people even go so far as to live in a trailer house themselves so they can afford to put up their horses in finer lodgings. The passion that people have for horses is just one of the reasons that make horses a blessing for the post-frame industry.
Horse Stall Hardware: An Important Part of Keeping Horses Safe
By Karen Knapstein When building or installing horse stalls, post-frame builders must prioritize safety, functionality, and durability. Horses are intelligent but can also be unpredictably skittish. Whether your customers’ horses are valued at a few thousand dollars or much more, owners want to provide them with a safe and comfortable shelter. Here are some key considerations for horse stall hardware when working with equine investors, professionals, and enthusiasts.
Thermography: Do It Yourself Or Hire Out
Thermography, also known as infrared (IR) imaging, can be a valuable tool for roofers. It can be used to assess the condition of roofs, diagnose problems, and aid in finding appropriate solutions for the property owners. However, since it requires specialized equipment and knowledge, it leads to the question: Should it be done by a thermographer (hired out), or can roofing company personnel do it themselves?
METALCON Announces 2023 Top Product Award Winners
803 METALCON, the only global event dedicated exclusively to the application of metal in design and construction, announces the METALCON Top Products Award winners. This year’s exhibitors were invited to nominate their top metal products in one of 15 product categories. To be eligible for consideration, a product must have been introduced to the market after Jan. 1, 2022, and its manufacturer must be a 2023 METALCON exhibiting company. Winners were determined by an electronic vote.
METALCON Gives Back to the Local Community Helping Las Vegas Area Veterans
958 The only global event dedicated exclusively to the application of metal in design and construction gives back to the local community during its annual tradeshow and conference taking place Oct. 18-20 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. METALCON has partnered with the Semper Fi & America’s Fund (The Fund), a non-profit organization dedicated to helping veterans in all branches of the military.
Learn Metal Roofing Best Practices at METALCON 2023
796 With the metal construction industry’s largest tradeshow and conference fast approaching, S-5! announces a number of education sessions planned for METALCON in Las Vegas, providing opportunities for attendees to earn continuing education credits. Beginning on Tuesday, Oct. 18, Shelly Higgins, S-5! Architectural & National Accounts Director will host a panel discussion on Why Design and Build with Metal – The Most Sustainable Construction Material Available.
Barricade Building Products Exhibiting at LAT 2022 Expo
Barricade Building Products will feature its complete range of building envelope products at the 136th Lumbermen’s Association of Texas (LAT) Annual Convention & Expo at Omni Frisco Hotel in Frisco, Texas from September 12-14, 2022.
Rural Builder Sept. 2022
Also in this issue: Metal Builder … don’t miss it! Note from the Editor: Lack of education? One of the perks of being an editor at Shield Wall Media is that I get to talk to a lot of people and hear different viewpoints. Recently I spoke to a gentleman in New York who has had a long career in residential construction; we’ll call him Hank. He says he has excellent employees and that he rarely has to hire because he pays well and treats his employees with respect.
Metal Builder Sept. 2022
Great Things in the Works! Welcome to the second issue of Metal Builder Magazine. Since the last publisher’s letter, the recession has become official but we keep moving forward. Two initiatives across all of our magazines, including Metal Builder, are increasing the data generation capabilities and recognizing the top builders in each market segment we serve. Part of preparing for success (and to minimize the negative impact of a recession) is planning. Good planning requires good information.
Extra-Large Boat and RV Storage Facility
By Trachte Building Systems If you purchased a boat or RV recently, you aren’t alone. Both boating and RV industries have reported significant growth in 2021 with a strong start to 2022. At the same time, these units are somewhat rare – while they can be profitable, they are not as profitable as traditional household storage units, and the major corporate brands of self-storage do not build them.
New Product: Pro Tips On: Your Post-Frame Home
Looking for a consumer resource to help you market your business? Look no farther.
Boston Tower Fast-tracked with Tower Cranes
By Manitowoc Company Over the past year, the rapidly rising, 43-story One Congress office tower has become a distinct new landmark in Boston’s North End. But going largely unnoticed are the Potain MR 415 and MR 418 A tower cranes that are quietly growing along with the building — and also inside it.
Pre-fabrication Meets Custom Features
By Jen Heimburger, President, Heimburger Construction & Metal Building Contractor & Erectors Association Ohio’s upper Miami County regional community welcomes the Arbogast Performing Arts Center (APAC), a multi-purpose venue built in Troy, Ohio. The 39,000-square-foot facility opened in October 2021, although planning for the $11 million structure began more than a year before construction started. Foundation Steel LLC, located in Swanton, Ohio, and Brentwood Builders, Inc.
Understanding Metal’s Sustainability Qualities
By Mark Swagerty, Exhibit Sales Manager, METALCON Metal construction products offer many advantages. Metal roofing, metal walls, metal framing and studs, all bring durability and economic benefits to any project. Metal is where it’s at and METALCON is where you find it. METALCON 2022 is the place to learn about all of the benefits provided by the widest array of metal construction products under one roof. METALCON is scheduled for October 12-14 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis.
Can’t Miss Metal Event: METALCON 2022
METALCON, the only global event dedicated exclusively to the application of metal in design and construction, announces its program line-up for this year’s annual conference and tradeshow scheduled from Wednesday, Oct. 12 to Friday, Oct. 14 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. From intensive pre-show workshops beginning on Tuesday, Oct.
Solar Solutions — American Style - Rural Builder
Liberty Self Storage, a multi-site storage facility business in Louisiana and the state’s largest solar-powered company, contacted The Next Energy Technology, a Louisiana-based solar power company, to do a conversion project for one of their locations. Liberty Self Storage dedicated itself to green energy in 2016, commissioning solar conversion for the first nine of 12 locations in St. Tammany Parish, but this time they wanted to do something different.
New Product: Simpson Strong-Tie New Tension Strap
Simpson Strong-Tie has introduced the MTWS mass timber washer strap as a versatile, off-the-shelf, load-tested option for a variety of cross-laminated timber (CLT) panel-to-panel and panel-to-steel connections in mass timber construction. Mass timber projects can use a hybrid of materials and require strap and hold-down connections with two to three times the capacity of light-frame connections.
Midyear Construction Business Climate
We asked suppliers and manufacturers about their take on the current construction business climate. Here’s what a few of them had to say: Crew workers are still hard to find. Increased payroll expenses due to increased poaching in a very limited labor pool are driving building prices up to dangerous levels. The balancing act of price, profit, and pay scale is extremely challenging. The bright side is that demand remains steady in our markets.
Project of the Month: Mini Warehouse
The customer started out by looking for a company to aid in the design and construction of this project. The project required working with the local authorities and securing financing, and it took a year and a half before construction could begin. The project consists of office, storage, and some heated buildings. All of the buildings are by Wick and the mortarless block masonry is Moderra.
Rural Builder July 2022 – Gold Key Awards - Rural Builder
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Metal Builder July 2022
Metal Builder is a special section in Rural Builder dedicated to the metal building construction sector. In 2023, Metal Builder will become a stand-alone publication. SUBSCRIBE TODAY Contents: • Metal Builder Making a Comeback • Metal Building Is A Growing Sector • Metal Building Aesthetics in Public Spaces • Building With Metal Aided By Technology >> Read the rest of the July 2022 edition of Rural Builder Metal Buildermetal buildingbuilding with metal
Metal Builder Making a Comeback
By Gary Reichert, Publisher Launching something new is always exciting, and usually fun. In this case it is a bit of a stretch to call Metal Builder new. Metal Builder (MB) was a section in Rural Builder starting in 2006 that featured a metal building contractor each month. In 2007 it became a supplemental magazine that would polybag with Rural Builder and continued until 2011. The supplement emphasized all aspects of metal in construction.
Building With Metal Aided By Technology
By Smartbuild & Reed’s Metals If you think “metal buildings” in the South, the name Reed’s Metals probably comes to mind. That’s because for over 24 years, the company has been an industry leading provider of metal roofing systems, metal roofing panels, post frame, tube buildings and pre-engineered steel buildings.
Metal Building Aesthetics in Public Spaces
By Kim Allen, Polyvision Corp Public spaces like offices, transportation hubs, and hospitals are often thought of as utilitarian structures designed to serve a specific purpose. While it is true many public and commercial projects are developed to fulfill a functional requirement, strategically utilizing architectural elements can make a significant impact on those using or occupying the space.
Metal Building Is A Growing Sector
By Mark Swagerty, Exhibit Sales Manager, METALCON The versatility of metal buildings is no longer a secret. More and more, architects and contractors are taking advantage of the benefits offered by metal buildings to grow the market. “Over the last 20 years, as the construction industry has grown more sophisticated, so have pre-engineered metal buildings,” says Jay Kocon, Director of Group Sales & Talent at Nucor Buildings Group.
Survey Results: Construction Business Climate
Shield Wall Media recently closed its mid-year Construction Business Climate Survey. Despite all the doom and gloom we hear on the news, the results are surprisingly good. We divided respondents into three categories: Building Contractors, Roofing Contractors, and Building Material Dealers or Manufacturers.
Union Corrugating Co. • Gold Key Winner 2022
website: www.unioncorrugating.com phone: 888-685-7663 • 2 Gold Keys Won For three-quarters of a century, Union Corrugating Company, headquartered in Fayetteville North Carolina, has served the metal building components market.
ST Fastening Systems • Gold Key Winner 2022
website: www.stfasteningsystems.com • phone: 800-352-4864 • 16 Gold Keys Won ST FASTENING SYSTEMS is a leading supplier of threaded fasteners to the pre-engineered metal building and post frame building industries. Product is shipped from two convenient service centers in Tyler, Texas, and Cincinnati, Ohio. The heart of the ST FASTENING product line is the MAXX STEELBINDER self-drilling screw.
S-5! • Gold Key Winner 2022
website: www.S-5.com • phone: 888-825-3432 • fax: 719-495-0045 • 9 Gold Keys Won ColorGard® by S-5! Rooftop avalanches cause hundreds of millions of dollars in property damage, personal injury and fatalities each year, creating potential liability for building owners and contractors. S-5! has mastered the art and science of mitigating this hazard since 1992 with a variety of fully engineered snow guard systems.
Richland Laminated Columns LLC • Gold Key Winner 2022
phone: 419.895.0036 • fax: 419.895.0062 • 12 Gold Keys Won Richland Laminated Columns was founded in 2005 by manufacturing superior laminated columns and partnering with industry leaders and innovators, therefore we have built ourselves into “Your One Stop Pole Shop.“ For the last 15 years Richland has been manufacturing Nail-Lam Columns, in 2019 we have built and installed a Glu-Lam plant to manufacture an all-Glu-Lam Column.
Covertech Flexible Packaging • Gold Key Winner 2022
website: www.rfoil.com • phone: 800.837.8961 • 7 Gold Keys Won rFOIL Reflective Insulation has been a leading manufacturer of thermal insulation for the metal building and metal roofing markets for nearly 35 years. Manufactured by Covertech Inc., rFOIL has earned a reputation for quality, performance, and durability.
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