Keeping your metal carport cool maintains both comfort and protection. Excessive heat can damage vehicle paint, interiors, batteries, and tires, while also warp materials and shortening the lifespan of stored tools and electronics.

Fortunately, several practical metal carport upgrades can significantly reduce temperatures in your carport, creating a more protective environment for your valuables. In this article, we’ll explore seven effective modifications that can transform your hot metal structure into a cool, functional space throughout Georgia’s long summer season, adding the following benefits: .

• Protect valuable investments: Vehicles and equipment last longer when shielded from extreme heat
• Increase usability: A cooler carport becomes a more functional space for various activities
• Improve energy efficiency: Proper cooling reduces the need for excessive climate control in adjacent structures
• Increase property value: Well-designed, comfortable outdoor structures enhance your property’s appeal

To combat these summer heat challenges, it’s essential to make strategic upgrades that shield your carport from Georgia’s relentless sun and enhance its overall function and value. The following seven ideas offer practical solutions to help you beat the heat, maximize the use of your metal carport, and enjoy long-term benefits.

1. Upgrade to Reflective Roofing Materials

Heat Reflection Technology

Standard metal roofing can reach temperatures up to 180°F during Georgia’s sweltering summer days. Reflective roofing materials redirect sunlight away from your carport rather than absorbing it, reducing surface temperatures by up to 50-60 degrees.

Best Reflective Options for Georgia:

Several reflective materials work exceptionally well in Georgia’s humid climate:

• Cool metal roofing with specialized heat-reflective pigments
• White or light-colored metal panels (offer 25-35% better heat reflection)
• Aluminum-based reflective coatings designed for metal surfaces
• Acrylic elastomeric coatings that both reflect heat and resist weather damage

Benefits Beyond Temperature:

Reflective roofing offers multiple advantages:

• Protects vehicles from extreme heat that can damage interiors and electronics
• Creates a more comfortable space for working on projects under your carport
• Extends the lifespan of your metal structure by reducing heat-related expansion and contraction
• Reduces energy costs by up to 20% if your carport is attached to your home

2. Install Carport Insulation for Temperature Control

When it comes to battling Georgia’s intense summer heat, proper insulation is one of your most effective weapons for your metal carport.

Several insulation options work well for metal carports:

• Fiberglass batts or rolls: The most common and cost-effective option, typically available in 3-inch thickness that fits between structural components
• Foam board insulation: Rigid panels that provide excellent thermal resistance with minimal thickness
• Reflective or radiant barriers: Aluminum-faced materials that reflect heat rather than absorbing it, perfect for roof installation
• Quality insulation creates a critical thermal barrier that prevents the metal from transferring outside heat into your carport space. This can reduce interior temperatures by 20-30 degrees during peak summer heat.
• For DIY installation, expect to pay $0.50-$1.50 per square foot for basic materials, while professional installation typically ranges from $1-$3 per square foot.
• For optimal results, combine insulation with proper ventilation (which we’ll discuss in section 4) to create a comprehensive cooling system for your metal carport.

3. Add Shade Panels and Sidewalls

One of the most effective ways to keep your metal carport cool during Georgia’s sweltering summers is by adding shade panels and sidewalls.

• Partial sidewalls (knee walls) block low-angle morning and afternoon sun while maintaining airflow
• Full sidewalls with strategically placed windows provide maximum shade while allowing for ventilation
• Mesh or fabric panels offer lightweight alternatives that block UV rays while allowing air movement
• Removable panels give you seasonal flexibility, maximum protection in summer, more openness in cooler months

For Georgia’s climate, consider materials that can withstand high humidity and intense sun exposure. Steel panels are durable and come in open, partial, or enclosed styles to balance ventilation and protection.

• Eastern and western sides typically need the most shade protection from low-angle sun
• Consider roof overhang extensions for additional shade without impacting airflow
• Install adjustable or louvered panels that can be opened or closed depending on sun position
• Add cross-ventilation options at the top of sidewalls to release hot air while maintaining shade

Remember that keeping the air in any building moving is important for comfort and to manage humidity levels. The ideal configuration balances maximum shade with sufficient airflow, vital for Georgia’s humid summers.

4. Enhance Airflow with Vents and Fans

Proper ventilation is a top priority for metal carports in Georgia.

Consider these passive ventilation options:

• Ridge vents: Installed along the peak of the roof to allow hot air to escape naturally
• Gable vents: Positioned at the triangular ends of the carport to create cross-ventilation
• Soffit vents: Placed under the eaves to allow cooler air intake from below
• Cupolas: Decorative and functional additions that allow rising heat to escape while adding visual appeal to your carport

For active cooling solutions, explore these options:

• Ceiling-mounted exhaust fans: Effectively pull hot air out of the carport
• Portable high-velocity fans: Provide flexible cooling where needed most
• Solar-powered ventilation fans: Eco-friendly options that work hardest during the sunniest, hottest parts of the day

For optimal placement in Georgia’s climate:

• Position intake vents on the north and east sides where air is typically cooler
• Install exhaust vents on the south and west sides to expel the hottest air

For maximum efficiency, space cupolas every 20-30 feet along the roof ridge

Beyond temperature control, proper ventilation reduces moisture buildup that can cause rust and corrosion, extending the life of your metal carport while keeping its contents protected.

5. Incorporate Landscaping for Natural Cooling

Create natural shade barriers: Strategic planting around your carport can significantly reduce ambient temperatures by blocking direct sunlight.

Choose Georgia-friendly shade plants: For immediate shade, consider fast-growing native options like:

• Crape myrtles (drought-resistant with beautiful blooms)
• Southern magnolias (evergreen for year-round shade)
• Red maples (quick growing with excellent summer shade)
• Oakleaf hydrangeas (understory shrubs for lower-level shade)

Position plants strategically: Place taller trees on the western and southern sides of your carport where sun exposure is most intense during summer afternoons. Plant shorter shrubs on the eastern side for morning shade without blocking beneficial morning breezes.

Maintain proper distance: Plant trees at least 10-15 feet from your metal structure to prevent root damage to the foundation and falling branch hazards.

Consider low-maintenance options: Select native plants that require minimal watering and fertilization after establishment. Indigenous plants are already adapted to Georgia’s climate extremes and typically need less maintenance once established.

Create a microclimate: Combining strategic landscaping with other cooling methods creates a comprehensive cooling system. The plants not only provide shade but also release moisture through transpiration, further cooling the surrounding air.

6. Use Cool Colors and Heat-Resistant Paints

The Science of Color and Temperature

• Light-colored surfaces reflect up to 80% of the sun’s rays, while dark colors absorb them and convert them to heat
• Simply changing from a dark to light color can reduce surface temperatures by 25-35°F on a typical Georgia summer day
• White, light gray, beige, and pale blue provide maximum heat reflection while complementing most property aesthetics

Heat-Resistant Paint Options for Georgia’s Climate

• Look for paints specifically labeled as “heat-reflective” or “cool roof” formulations
• Ceramic-infused metal paints create additional insulation while reflecting UV rays
• Acrylic elastomeric coatings provide superior heat reflection plus protection against Georgia’s high humidity and occasional severe weather
• Solar-reflective pigments in specialty metal paints can keep surface temperatures 50-60°F cooler than standard paints

Application and Maintenance Tips

• Properly prepare metal surfaces, clean thoroughly and remove any rust or flaking paint
• Apply during moderate temperatures (65-85°F) for optimal adhesion
• Consider hiring professionals for large carports to ensure even application
• Inspect annually for signs of peeling, chalking, or fading, especially on south-facing surfaces
• Plan to recoat every 7-10 years, depending on paint quality and exposure levels
• Clean painted surfaces annually with gentle detergent to maintain reflective properties and remove dirt that can absorb heat

7. Add Sunshades and Retractable Awnings

Extended Protection Beyond Your Carport. While your metal carport provides basic shelter, adding sunshades or retractable awnings creates an additional barrier against Georgia’s intense summer sun.

Best Options for Georgia’s Climate. Several shade solutions work exceptionally well with Georgia’s unique weather conditions:

• Retractable canvas awnings that can be extended during peak heat and retracted during storms
• Fixed metal awnings with heat-resistant coatings for permanent protection
• Roll-down mesh shade screens that block UV rays while maintaining visibility
• Pergola-style side additions with removable shade cloth for seasonal flexibility
• Weather-resistant polyester fabric options that withstand humidity without mildewing

Installation and Durability Tips. To ensure your shade additions last through Georgia’s demanding summers:

• Choose professional installation for larger awnings to ensure proper anchoring against summer storms
• Select marine-grade fabrics with UV inhibitors for longer life in intense sunshine
• Install automatic sensors on retractable systems that close during sudden thunderstorms
• Maintain regular cleaning to prevent mold and mildew buildup in Georgia’s humidity
• Consider powder-coated aluminum frames which resist corrosion better than standard metal

Multi-Purpose Benefits. Sunshades and awnings deliver more than just cooling:

• Transform your carport into a comfortable outdoor workspace even during midday heat
• Protect vehicle paint and interiors from UV damage
• Create an attractive architectural feature that enhances property value
• Provide shelter for entertaining or relaxing adjacent to your carport

Stay Cool and Protected All Summer Long

Don’t wait for the next heatwave to take action. Start transforming your carport into a cooler, more comfortable space today. Contact American Steel Carports, Inc to explore the best materials, designs, and installation services for your specific needs. With the right upgrades, you can beat the heat, protect your investments, and boost your property’s overall appeal, all summer long.

The post Beat the Heat: Top 7 Metal Carport Upgrades for a Cool Georgia Summer appeared first on American Steel Carports Inc..

Sportsmobile Sprinter 4×4

As the name indicates, this is a van with four-wheel-drive capabilities, so it’s a good pick when you plan to get out and explore plenty of dirt roads. While it doesn’t come standard on this model, there is the option for a pop-up sleeping area in this van, which can make it feel much bigger than it would otherwise.

Fiat Ducato Base Camper Van

The Fiat name is traditionally associated with rather small vehicles, but this van steps things up and offers plenty of space for your adventures. This camper van is a great option for those looking to customize later. As an added feature, this van can actually be purchased with a manual transmission so you know you’re ready for any road.

Thor Motor Coach

If you have the space in your budget to spend a bit more, you’ll get a ton of great features and luxury touches with this option. As far as comforts go, this van has you covered. It comes in a couple configurations that include a fixed double bed, or a setup that allows more space for entertainment, a full kitchen and more. It’s also hard to beat the onboard air conditioning system that promises to keep you cool and comfortable no matter what the weather on the outside has in store.

Jayco Terrain Van

Like many of the other options on this list, the Jayco Terrain model is built on a Mercedes platform, which is always a good start. As the “Terrain” name would suggest, you will be well-positioned to head off the road when you go with this as your camper van of choice. In addition to off-roading, you can also relax outside under the awning and even tow a small trailer behind the van, if needed.

Airstream Interstate 24X

You probably don’t need any introduction to the Airstream brand, as it is a long-standing favorite among RV travelers. In this case, it’s not a trailer but a van that Airstream has brought to the market, and this model certainly lives up to the luxury reputation of the shiny Airstream brand. This is one of the more expensive vans on our list, but the inclusion of a bathroom takes it to a higher level not achieved by some of the competitors.

Storyteller Overland Beast Mode 4×4

This is not the van to look at when you plan to stay on the highway and visit popular parks and campgrounds. On the contrary, this van is a great pick when you want to explore areas where most other vans–and vehicles in general–simply can’t go. While it is a rugged machine, there are also creature comforts to make your travels enjoyable, such as climate control and comfortable sleeping quarters.

Citan Tourer

If you are looking for a compact van that will allow you to pack the basics and sleep comfortably without taking up too much of the road, look to the Citan Tourer from Mercedes. This is a great pick when you’ll only be traveling solo or with one other person, and it still manages to include a built-in kitchen despite its modest dimensions.

Loef Camper Van

In contrast to the modest size of the Citan Tourer from Mercedes, the Loef Camper Van goes in the opposite direction and maxes out on space. This is a downright massive camper van that spans 24 feet end-to-end and offers luxury touches on the inside. You’ll have the ability to cook outside, and a great place to sleep at the end of the day.

Winnebago Boldt

Interested in owning a Winnebago brand product but don’t want a full-size motorhome? The Boldt is a great pick as a camper van that sneaks countless great features into a more compact form factor. At 22 feet long, this van features living and sleeping areas and a fully functioning kitchen. It also boasts an onboard shower, allowing travelers to stay clean even after a long day out exploring the wilderness.

Your Own Creation!

That’s right, we are going to reserve the last spot on our list to pay tribute to all of the custom camper vans out there on the roads today. If you don’t find anything that perfectly fits your needs among what is on the market, or if you just want to take on the challenge of creating something yourself, a custom van conversion could be a dream project.

While you probably want to spend more time out of your van than in it while traveling, it’s still nice to have a comfortable spot to lay down your head at night and recharge for what comes next.

At the same time you are shopping for a van, you should also be thinking about where you will store that van when it’s not in use. For that, turn to American Steel Carports, Inc. for an affordable and convenient solution. We sell durable RV carports that can easily be customized to perfectly suit your needs and budget. Get started today by using our Build & Price tool to see what is possible. When questions come up, just contact us and we will be happy to help.

With one of the vans listed above parked under a carport and ready to go, you’ll always be prepared to sneak off for a new adventure whenever the opportunity arises. Have fun and travel safely!

The post 10 Best Camper Vans for Getting Away and Traveling appeared first on American Steel Carports Inc..

If you’re interested in living in a van, you’ll want to do plenty of homework before you decide to make that leap. We’ll go over some key points and tips any beginner will find helpful.

Why Start the “Van Life”

Living in a van comes with challenges, but it also gives you the opportunity to live on the road, explore the country, and be free from the burdens a permanent house comes with. Here are some key benefits that come with living in a van:

Get outside

More and more people spend the vast majority of their time indoors. If you feel the call to be outside as often as possible and are tired of feeling constrained by your walls, living in a van could be the remedy. You’ll be able to travel the world and see places you might not be able to see otherwise. The outdoors will always be right there waiting to be explored!

Be free

For many van lifers, freedom is the ultimate goal. This can mean the freedom to be where you want to be, or the freedom to spend your time doing the things you want to do. Whatever it looks like, freedom feels good, and living in a van can take you a big step in that direction.

Create your own path

Van life opens up possibilities to imagine a future that might not have been possible otherwise. Whether you want to use your time on the road to build a thriving remote business, or you want to downsize and minimize how much time you spend working, the possibilities are endless.

Clearing the First Hurdles

If you are thinking of transitioning from a “traditional” life into a van life arrangement, there are some upfront hurdles that you’ll need to get over so you can get started. A partial list of those hurdles includes the following:

• Getting a van. You can’t live the van life without a van! It’s a good idea for first-timers to start basic and keep their budget under control. Even if you love the idea of living in a van, you don’t want to jump straight into an expensive hobby, only to find your van spends most of its time parked. Look at renting a Sprinter van or buy a used van–after all, you can always upgrade it.
• Fitting Your Belongings in the Van. You almost certainly own more things than will ever fit in a van, and you probably don’t want to throw them all away on a whim. Consider looking for an affordable storage unit you can rent, or see if any friends or family have space in a garage or metal carport you can borrow while getting started.
• How Will You Get Mail? If you no longer have a permanent residential address, you’ll need some way to get mail for things like taxes and other matters. Renting a P.O Box is one option, or you can use the address of a family member (with permission, of course). Sort this out in advance so there are no challenges later on.

Learning to Live on the Road

While it is much simpler in many ways, there are parts of van life that you will need to learn to manage from day to day. For example, it’s likely that your van won’t have a bathroom on board, so you are going to need to find places to use the restroom and get cleaned up. This is an issue that is easily solved by finding the right places to stay. If you pick the right campgrounds and RV parks, you’ll have access to bathroom facilities within a short walk from your van.

Also, it’s important to plan ahead to make sure you will have the ability to connect to the internet when necessary for work purposes or to manage your personal life (things like banking, etc.). With a good cell plan you can connect your computer via hotspot anywhere you have cell service–and cell coverage is continuing to improve and expand. There is also free public Wi-Fi just about everywhere, so stop in at a coffee shop or library to handle these tasks before you move on.

And for any van owner, whether experienced or not, it’s important to have a place to park your van. American Steel Carports, Inc. offers sturdy RV and one car carports.  We have a Build & Price tool here on our site for you to get started designing a new carport, and you can always contact us if you need help along the way.

Van living isn’t for everyone, but it can be a life-changing experience for those who are called to the freedom and independence that it offers. We hope this article helps get you started thinking about what it would take to make this leap in your life.

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We’ll highlight some of the best RV and trailer accessories available today. And, if you would like to do something nice for your RV when it isn’t out on the road, consider working with American Steel Carports, Inc. on a new custom RV carport to keep it out of the elements. Try our Build & Price tool to see what is possible, and contact us if you have any questions.

Buy an RV Mattress

You might think regular residential mattresses work for RVs; however, that’s not the case. RV mattresses are lighter and thinner than regular mattresses in order to put less strain on the RV’s engine. In addition, RV mattress sizes are not always standard. A queen size RV mattress is not the same as a normal queen size; an RV mattress is often narrower. It’s important to measure your RV and find a compatible mattress that will fit. When shopping for an RV mattress, make sure to lay on a mattress and make sure it’s comfortable. You don’t want to rush buying a mattress that won’t give you the right support and cause you to have a rough vacation.

Outdoor String Lights

You are going to spend lots of time outside when traveling in an RV–and some of that time will be after the sun goes down. To create a fun, relaxing atmosphere outside your RV, buy some string lights that you can set up on your awning. Even just a short string of lights will create an enjoyable place to hang out that might wind up being the best spot in the whole campground.

Add a Dehumidifier

Given the compact space inside an RV, it’s not uncommon for the air to get rather sticky in the middle of summer. Bringing a dehumidifier is a good way to improve the comfort in your RV on those humid summer days. This small appliance could make all the difference when trying to get a good night of sleep–and sleeping well is essential if you want to have a fun trip.

RV Surge Protector

When you hook your RV up to the power supply offered by a campground or RV park, you are betting on that power supply delivering a consistent flow that won’t spike and fry some of your valuable components. To hedge that bet and protect the investment you have made in your RV, add a surge protector to this setup. That way, if a spike of power does come along, the surge protector can take the fall for your RV, keeping your expensive equipment safe on the other side of this device.

Water Filter

Does the water always taste great everywhere you travel? Probably not–but you can easily add an RV water filter to your rig to improve that situation. With filtration in place between the water source and the tap, you can feel better about using the water you are provided no matter where you happen to visit.

Leveling Blocks

We’ve saved one of the most important RV accessories for last. Almost everyone who owns an RV should be traveling with leveling blocks of some kind. A set of blocks will make it possible for you to get your RV level when your parking spot is not flat, and that’s important both for safety and personal comfort. Anyone who has ever tried to get a good night of sleep inside of an unlevel RV understands the importance of this accessory.

Do you need to order all of the accessories we have listed above to have a good time traveling with your RV? Of course not, but do take a moment to pick out the ones that have the potential to save you time or energy while on the road and give them careful consideration. Have fun and stay safe out there!

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We always like to help our customers reduce the price of any metal building without sacrificing space. An important factor of a building’s price is the increase in length compared to width. Although our metal buildings can go as wide as 80’, extra-wide structures like these can come with a high price. However, when you decide to increase in length, instead of width, you can save yourself a lot of money. The other option is to obtain a second unit with the exact same specs.  This can also save money in comparison to increasing width.

Another advantage of staying within 30’ wide is that once a unit surpasses 30’ wide, it needs to be installed on a concrete pad, due to the increased weight of material used. See how two metal buildings can save you some money? Don’t believe us? Well, let us show you this customer who decided to get two identical carports for his heavy-duty equipment, each one measuring 30’W x 21’L x 12’H:

• 12-Guage Galvanized Tubing
• Standard Roof
• Diagonal Bracing
• (2) Extras Trusses

All our metal units are engineer-certified and ready to withstand anything that mother nature will throw their way! Curious about the price? Give us a call to speak with one of our experts. We can help you customize your unit and stay in budget! Ask for your local dealer when you call.

Follow us on social media to stay on top of our new building launches, SALES, and special offer details:

Facebook: /AmericanSteelCarports/

Instagram: /americansteelinc/

Twitter: /americancarport/

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Most equipment machines, along with RVs, tend to surpass 12’ in height, making them a little harder to store and keep protected from the natural elements. But don’t let that discourage you. Every building we do is custom per order, so if you need something taller than 12 feet, we will do it for you! Keep in mind that units taller than 12’ will require additional support and material to keep your units standing strong for many years. Another important feature that we highly recommend to our customers who are trying to obtain a building longer than 30 feet is to go with our A-Frame Vertical roof. This will avoid any type of leaks in the future.

Take a look at this 30’W x 41’L x 14’H Partially Enclosed Carport:

• 12-Gauge Galvanized Tubing
• Full Horizontal Side
• 2 – Gable Ends
• L-Brackets

This carport can be used to protect your RV or any machinery that might be sitting outside and needs to be covered. What would you use this metal carport for? Let us know in the comments below.

There are many ways for you to customize your metal carport, and everything can get started with a simple phone call! Talk to our experts and let them assist you with any questions or concerns you might have. We can always provide you with a FREE sketch for visualization purposes. Call us now! And don’t forget to ask about our available financing options.

Stay on top of all our new building launch, SALES, special offer details and give us a follow on social media:

Facebook: /AmericanSteelCarports/

Instagram: /americansteelinc/

Twitter: /americancarport

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Here’s the deal:

The common myth is that out of all types of structures, metal buildings are the most prone to lightning strikes. In other words, metal buildings and metal roofs are basically lightning magnets. Makes sense, right?

Wrong.

A ton of other crazy myths are also still floating around—including that being outside in a lightning storm is safe as long as you’re not wearing metal jewelry and that wearing metal cleats or carrying something with metal makes you more prone to getting struck by lightning.

Also wrong.

I bet you’re thinking, “OK, but then what is lightning really attracted to?”

Long story short, lightning is not actually attracted to specific materials. Lightning can strike anything. Overall, “lightning occurs on too large of a scale to be influenced by small objects on the ground, including metal objects.”

That’s the good news.

Ready for the great news?

Because metal buildings are not especially prone to lightning strikes, you can easily take precautions to ensure that you and your steel structures are safe!

Most people know that counting the seconds between the flash of lightning and the following crash of thunder gives the approximate number of miles between you and the storm.

So, instead of worrying that lightning may have it in for you or your building, here’s what you need to know:

As it turns out, steel is not a lightning magnet! Lightning does not care about the small amount of metal that you might be wearing or carrying.

Instead, lightning is most attracted to targets that are higher off of the ground.

On the slight chance that a steel building or roof is struck by lightning, both are less likely than other types of building and roofing materials to spark a fire. A metal building and roof will usually survive a lightning strike with minimal damage.

In fact, a properly grounded metal building actually creates a more secure way for lightning to travel. Should your metal roof or building be grounded? The answer is a definite yes!

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According to a 2014 study conducted by the Metal Construction Association and the Zinc Aluminum Coaters Association, the projected service life for GALVALUME® standing-seam roof systems is a minimum of 60 years. This is the longest service life of any commonly used roof system on the market. Interestingly, this was calculated using a conservative estimate of the expected lifespan of the butyl sealant used in laps, flashings, and penetrations. In a 2015 study, the National Coil Coating Association reviewed data on pre-painted PVDF fluoropolymer metal panels subjected to exposure testing in South Florida. They concluded it was reasonable to project a minimum service life of 40 years for these.

As with any roofing material, proper design, detailing, installation, and maintenance are critical to achieving the best performance and service life. However, all roof systems, including metal ones, eventually need to be replaced or re-covered. What happens then?

As a roofing professional, building owners will turn to you for advice on whether to replace or re-cover their existing metal roof systems. When considering the re-cover option, there are several elements to keep in mind to maximize the longevity of the new roof system.

Replace vs. Re-cover

There are two types of metal roof system: structural and nonstructural. Structural systems’ panel profiles can generally carry significant wind and snow loads over framing members spaced at intervals up to 5 feet. Structural panels are typically characterized by significant rib dimensions to provide the necessary strength, and they are used in metal building system applications. Nonstructural metal roof systems require a structural deck or substrate to support the new roof and loads. This article focuses on structural systems because these are more common.

According to the Metal Building Manufacturers Association’s historical shipment data, there are billions of square feet of structural metal roofing currently on buildings that are more than 40 years old.

The advantage of replacing a roof system is that it allows vinyl-faced insulation, which may have deteriorated over time, to be removed and replaced. However, this can present some challenges, as the process also exposes the building and its contents to the elements, and this exposure can be prolonged if other structural elements must be added.

The advantage of re-covering a roof is that the original materials can remain in place to protect the interior during installation of the new materials, allowing the building’s normal operations to continue. Re-covering takes full advantage of the existing insulation with the option of easily adding more, increasing the building’s energy efficiency. Keeping the original roof system in place also provides a safer work surface than open framing for the workers installing the new system. In addition, re-covering reduces landfill waste and the need for a large laydown area for temporary storage of old roofing materials. All these factors can lead to a lower cost for re-covering than for replacement.

Many conventional roof systems have inherent excess capacity because their structural systems are not amenable to optimization. However, metal roof and metal building systems can be highly optimized for design load requirements so that materials can be used more efficiently. Because of this, the materials used during a re-cover installation must be lightweight (less than 3 pounds per square foot) so structural modifications are not needed or are kept to a minimum to carry the added roofing materials.

1. Lee Shoemaker, Ph.D., P.E., is director of research and engineering for the Metal Building Manufacturers Association;

Vincent E. Sagan, P.E., is senior staff engineer for the Metal Building Manufacturers Association;

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