Metal moves with the environment, so do not
try to "Nail it Down."
Environmental effects on construction metals result in
failures of some of the most critical elements of the
external flashings and cladding, which then threatens
drastic consequence on the structure and interior of the
buildings on which improper techniques were employed.
Every material has limitations and metal
is no exception. The limitations of metal flashings,
cladding, and sidings are dictated mainly by the inherent
properties of each metal. Interaction between the metal
and the environment must be predetermined.
Trade standards are being stretched by
new engineered products and methodologies. Prefabricated
roof panels, for instance are now engineered in very large
lengths, but with "free floating" blind fastening that
allows for expansion and contraction.
Field fabrication is still required on
every job, at some point. The intersections of roof
valleys and wall flashings are most critical and many
times these areas fail from poor application methods.
Improper fastening is one reason for over-stress of metal
products in construction. Most often, it is the field
fabricated element that will fail.
Gutters are particularly problematic and
provision for movement must be incorporated into the
design.
See Youtube
Videos
by Bob Wewer on Built in gutters and
expansion joints.
Below is a chart that shows the expansion
rates of some of the common metals used in the industry.
THERMAL MOVEMENT OF COMMONLY USED
CONSTRUCTION METALS
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