In our climate, freeze-thaw cycles dominate much of the year, placing extraordinary demands on building assemblies. Improper detailing can lead to premature failure, particularly in metal cladding systems. Factors such as thermal expansion, varying rates of metal movement, capillary action on low-slope roofs, vapor management, air gaps, rainscreen assemblies, and dissimilar metal corrosion—especially when working with materials like copper or zinc—must all be meticulously accounted for in the design phase.
With a deep understanding of building science and extensive field experience, we offer expert guidance to builders, architects, and homeowners. Our mission is to ensure every project incorporates the most durable and resilient metal cladding assemblies possible.
Our detailing approach prioritizes mechanical locking systems as the primary method of waterproofing, with sealant used only as a secondary safeguard—particularly for low-slope applications where capillary action is a concern. We do not rely on exposed fasteners or surface-applied sealants that are vulnerable to ultraviolet degradation. Instead, we utilize a curated selection of commercial-grade sealants, liquid butyls, seaming gels, closed-cell foam tapes, and rubber gaskets—each chosen based on the unique design parameters of the assembly and backed by documented lifespans of up to 70 years.
Our team has successfully installed watertight systems on slopes as low as 3.5 degrees, incorporating recessed, concealed gutters integrated directly into the building envelope. All panel systems are crafted through precise manual folding and complex geometry—not by cutting—to preserve full water integrity and long-term performance, especially in freeze/thaw conditions.
