Building a stronger future

By METALCON. 

Learn how sustainability can be incorporated into metal building maintenance to create a healthier environment. 

There is a growing global awareness and concern about creating sustainable systems that lessen the environmental impact of human activities. This shift is happening in a variety of industries, including the metal building industry. As the industry works towards sustainable practices, some building maintenance strategies that ensure structural longevity and utilize sustainable practices have emerged.  

As one of the leading voices in the metal industry, METALCON is working to incorporate these pivotal sustainability topics into their event at the end of October 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. This METALCON will see professionals and leaders from across the industry come together to showcase the latest sustainability advancements and discuss the important role circularity plays in the metal industry’s evolution for more environmentally friendly practices. METALCON also provides some online year-round learning about this topic and has created this article to help you understand the basics. 

Start with the roof 

According to Metal Architecture, “When you re-roof with metal-over-metal, there’s no downtime. You don’t need to remove the old roof, saving time and expense. Metal-over-metal re-roofing systems let you install the new roof over your existing roof.” The high-profile option can boost the insulation value of your roof by more than 50%. Manage leaks before they become even bigger ones, causing expensive damage to the interior of your structure.  

You may also consider turning your building into an energy producer by adding solar panels. Harnessing the power of the sun is a game-changer in sustainable metal building maintenance and metal roof systems provide a perfect base for adding solar panels. With a proven life span that exceeds 40 years, the metal roof will far outlast any solar panel.  

Lastly, consider implementing green roof systems on metal buildings. These living roofs are not only aesthetically pleasing but also provide insulation, improve air quality and absorb rainwater, reducing the strain on drainage systems. 

Coatings and metal wall panels 

When it comes to preserving and protecting metal surfaces, opt for environmentally friendly coatings. Low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) paints and coatings reduce harmful emissions, promoting indoor air quality and minimizing the impact on the surrounding environment. 

Insulated metal panels (IMPs) can also provide a fast-track transformation for any building. They address multiple needs for any building makeover: 

• Exterior and interior finish: An IMP’s exterior comes in various colors and finishes that can mimic any wall covering, from stucco to concrete. The panel also provides a finished interior that can help to reduce labor costs. 
• Control of water, vapor and air penetration: With highly engineered lap and fastener systems, insulated metal panels eliminate the need to add additional layers of water and vapor barriers than can add additional material and labor costs.  
• Thermal control: The IMP system can easily meet or exceed your energy code requirements.  
• Sustainability: IMPs are 100% recyclable and reusable, supporting your sustainability practices. With a minimum of 30% recycled content and available environmental product declarations, an insulated metal panel will support your efforts to go green. 

Recycling and waste management 

Implement a comprehensive recycling and waste management program within the metal building facility. Proper disposal of construction and maintenance-related waste, as well as recycling materials like metal, can significantly reduce the environmental footprint. 

Regular maintenance inspections and life cycle assessments 

Adopting a proactive approach to maintenance can extend the lifespan of metal buildings, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Regular inspections can help identify potential issues early on, allowing for timely repairs and minimizing the overall environmental impact. Conduct life cycle assessments for metal buildings to understand their environmental impact from production to disposal. This holistic approach can guide decisions in material selection, construction methods and maintenance practices, ensuring a more sustainable lifecycle for the building. 

IAS accredits the inspection practices of companies that assemble metal building systems. IAS accreditation establishes a benchmark for companies qualified to assemble and erect metal buildings. 

Original article source: METALCON