When it comes to wall and roof design in construction, there’s no shortage of material options. These can include wood framing, steel framing, precast or poured-in concrete systems, insulated concrete forms, insulated metal panels, and insulated metal wall panels as common options.
Insulated metal panels, however, are a prime choice of designers and contractors for a number of reasons. These panels can be utilized in wall and roof systems and offer many of the benefits you’ll find in other options (including superior thermal insulation).
However, there are certain perks that set IMPs apart. We’ll be comparing insulated metal panels to other systems to see which the better choice is, taking multiple factors into account.
What are Insulated Metal Panels?
Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs) are a building material designed to offer energy efficiency, durability, and ease of installation for those building a project. These panels consist of two metal sheets encasing an insulated core, which combines the functions of exterior cladding, thermal insulation, and a vapor barrier into a single, efficient product.
This unique construction makes IMPs an ideal solution for a wide range of building applications, from commercial and industrial structures to cold storage facilities. The superior energy efficiency of insulated metal panels can help reduce heating and cooling costs. This can make them a smart choice for any energy-conscious project.
Types of Insulated Panels
The market offers a variety of insulated panels, each tailored to specific applications and needs:
- Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs): These versatile panels feature two metal sheets with an insulated core. They’re considered suitable for walls, partitions, ceilings, cold storage, and roofing. Their design is constructed to ensure energy efficiency and durability.
- Insulated Wall Panels: These panels provide excellent thermal efficiency and design flexibility. This makes them a popular choice for various building projects, including industrial, agricultural, and commercial applications.
- Insulated Roof Panels: These panels offer thermally efficient and versatile design solutions. They’re designed to ensure buildings remain energy efficient and well-protected from the elements.
Each type of insulated panel is designed to provide unique benefits, which means that there is a perfect solution for every building need.
Advantages of Insulated Metal Panels
Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs) offer numerous advantages over other building materials, making them a preferred choice for many construction projects. Two of the top reasons are:
- Design Flexibility: Available in a variety of colors and coatings, IMPs offer versatile design options, allowing architects and builders to achieve their desired aesthetic while maintaining functionality.
- Thermal Efficiency: IMPs provide exceptional thermal efficiency, making them suitable for applications where temperature control is critical (such as cold storage facilities).
These advantages make it so insulated metal panels are frequently the smart and practical choice for modern construction projects. Contact us to learn more about how we can help support your upcoming project.
As far as the installation process is concerned, insulated metal wall and roof systems (including insulated metal wall panels) take the cake. IMP units are factory assembled and are finished and ready to put together upon delivery. The panels act as a vapor barrier, preventing moisture infiltration and enhancing the building’s overall durability.
Traditional multi-part systems have a much more complicated installation process. They also take more time and effort in construction. IMPs are easier and faster to install on average.
Perhaps the biggest advantage that IMPs have over conventional construction materials is the unmatched insulation efficiency. When compared to field assemblies, the high insulation values of IMPs ensure long-term cost benefits.
Air, water, and vapor barrier formation with the use of IMPs is practical and easily practicable. The superior thermal insulation of IMPs compared to conventional systems (as well as other insulation options), makes it the perfect solution for owners seeking energy efficient options.
The design of IMPs makes them an ideal choice for buildings with an unusual design. The insulated wall panels selected to make up the wall and roof systems can be used to cover the entire structure, creating a thermal envelope that cuts down heating and cooling costs.
Insulated metal panels are engineered to ensure they provide excellent fire resistance and safety. Made with non-combustible materials, IMPs are designed to prevent the spread of fire, offering peace of mind to building owners and occupants. Additionally, these panels undergo rigorous testing for fire resistance and safety, ensuring they meet the highest standards and provide reliable protection in the event of a fire.
Insulated metal panels are designed to offer exceptional moisture resistance and durability, making them suitable for a wide range of building applications. With a waterproof coating, IMPs can effectively prevent moisture from entering the building. This can drastically help reduce the risk of mold and mildew.
IMPs are built to withstand external factors such as weather, pests, and mold, ensuring a long-lasting and resilient building solution. These panels are constructed from durable materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring a long-lasting and reliable building solution. Whether used in commercial, industrial, or residential projects, IMPs provide a robust and resilient option for modern construction needs.
Insulated metal panels offer a wide range of aesthetic and design options to suit various building applications. Available in an array of colors and coatings, these panels allow architects and builders to choose the perfect match for their project, ensuring that the final structure is both functional and visually appealing.
In addition to their aesthetic benefits, insulated metal panels can be used as exterior cladding, providing a durable and energy-efficient solution for building envelopes. The insulated core of these panels ensures superior thermal efficiency, which can help energy consumption and costs. This makes them an ideal choice for energy-conscious projects.
Insulated metal panels have been tested and approved by various product approval listings, ensuring compliance with building codes and industry standards. They are suitable for use in a variety of building applications. This includes cold storage, where temperature control is critical. They can be used in conjunction with other building materials to create a comprehensive building envelope solution, ensuring that your project meets both aesthetic and functional requirements.
Insulated metal panels can utilize various substrates such as galvanized steel, aluminum-coated steel, and aluminum. Due to this reason, the versatility of IMPs is unmatched. The design of an insulated metal panel entails easy maintenance.
IMPs can also present great design features, architecturally speaking. For instance, joint size variations, curved or formed panels, joint reveal widths, corner panels, and end folds are just a few of the many design features that architects can implement in their designs.
One of the most unique features of insulated wall panels and insulated roof panels is their customization potential. These panels can be tailored to meet specific design requirements, including unique shapes and sizes, making them a versatile choice for any construction project. The sleek and modern appearance of insulated metal panels can enhance the visual appeal of any building, making them an attractive choice for architects and builders alike. The choice of colors, effects, and finishes available in IMPs coupled with the inherent benefits make it the perfect choice for architects and owners for many buildings.
Comparison to other metal and non-metal options shows that insulated metal systems are frequently more cost competitive and capable of delivering high performance. IMPs are desirable because these panels can be built to meet today’s demands for quick project completion at low costs.
Insulated metal panels have been used successfully in a variety of markets. From large warehouse buildings and cold storage facilities to complex high-tech architectural structures, IMPs can be used virtually anywhere. They’re a helpful material in most construction projects.
Contact Allied Steel Buildings to Start Your Project
If you’re looking to incorporate IMPs in your construction, Allied Steel Buildings can help! We offer comprehensive insulated panel solutions. We’ll provide custom design services, delivery, and timely support until project completion. Get in touch now to find out more.
Read more about Insulated Metal Panels: Everything You Need To Know About Insulated Metal Panels
