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October 7, 2015

Custom Sheet Metal Suppliers Help You Take on a Wider Project Range

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Many different types of metals can be purchased as sheets, square metal tubing, angles, and other forms. These forms each have a distinctive use that is appropriate for certain projects.

In addition to these basic forms, each metal can be further distinguished by properties such as thickness and weight. This is referred to as a gauge. The gauge of a piece of metal is assigned a number that corresponds to a certain weight or thickness. Generally, as the weight of the metal decreases, the gauge number increases.

Using the right sheet metal gauge for any product is important; however, it is not always easy. Sheet metal suppliers cannot always agree on gauge numbers, and there are some who disagree with the use of gauge numbers at all. This is because some projects require that the measurements of the material be exact.

The reason that the gauge system is disputed is because some weights might be rounded off to meet a certain gauge if they are in between sizes. This can causes errors in sensitive manufacturing jobs that can be detrimental to whole project. This disagreement between suppliers is the direct result of the importance of choosing the right gauge of metal for a project.
However, there are things that you can do to make sure that you’re getting the right weight of metal for your project. For example, if you require the use of sheet metal, you can use a sheet metal gauge to help you measure the thickness of the sheet of metal. The gauge you use will depend on the type of metal. If you need both ferrous and non-ferrous sheets, you will need a different gauge for each metal. This is because these gauges for each metal have different thicknesses associated with them.

If the metal you need is of a rare cut, size, or weight, you can ask experienced sheet metal suppliers such as Rotax Metals to create a custom size for you. While the gauge system is great for traditional weights, you can always veer away from this system if you have a specific weight in mind.

Sources:

How to Choose, Cut, and Bend Sheet Metal, Make:
Sheet Metal Wire Gauge Sizes Table Chart, Endineers Edge

Excellent Deals on Copper & Brass Sales Make Metal Roofing Affordable

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A copper roof is a durable and long-lasting option that adds elegance, flair, and value to any home. Copper comes with all of the advantages of other metal roofing materials and some distinct qualities that set it apart from common roofing options such as steel and aluminum.

Although copper is more expensive than other metal roofing options, excellent deals in copper and brass sales can make this material an affordable option for homeowners who are after style and high resale value. Since copper is durable and long lasting, it is a worthwhile investment.

Copper is highly resistant to fire damage and wind damage. This can make it superior to most other products in stormy areas. Its high resistance to salt water corrosion also makes it ideal for coastal homes. Homes in forested areas, meanwhile, can benefit from its near immunity to fire damage.

The Longevity and Style of Copper

Copper is beautiful and distinctive at all stages of its life. When freshly installed, copper shingles are vibrant and shiny. Unlike other metals such as steel, copper does not rust or corrode when exposed to water. It is also not weakened by scratches, a common reason for failure in galvanized steel.
As copper ages, its appearance becomes even more distinct and develops a personality unique from any other material. In particular, copper slowly takes on a greenish or reddish gold tinge. This means that instead of wearing out and appearing broken and corroded, copper only gets better with time. Whereas other metal roofing designs often fit only modern building styles, a copper roof can be added to almost any type of building design.

In terms of maintenance and durability, copper is one of the highest ranked of all materials. It requires almost no maintenance except for the occasional cleaning and inspection that should be done on all roofs. Although the upfront costs of copper may be higher than many other options, it is ultimately an excellent value roofing material when maintenance and replacement costs are considered. Since copper is also highly salvageable and tends to see increasing value, it contributes to future copper & brass sales. When it does come time to replace the roof, it may actually generate some money in recycling rather than simply adding extra disposal costs.

Sources:

Metal Roofing Buying Guide, HomeTips.com

Roofing Systems, Copper Development Association, Inc.

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