When it comes to choosing Vicwest steel roofing or siding, the right product is about more than appearance. The gauge, profile and color you select can all play an important role in your project.
Whether you’re designing a commercial building, planning an agricultural project or updating a residential exterior, understanding these three considerations can help you make a more informed product choice.
1. Start with the right gauge
Gauge refers to the thickness of the steel used to manufacture a metal panel, and its thickness differs based on whether it’s a commercial building, agricultural building or residential.
A heavier gauge generally provides increased strength and rigidity, making it well suited to applications where durability and structural performance are key considerations. Lighter gauges can offer an efficient solution for applications where less material thickness is required.
The right gauge depends on several factors, including:
- The application and intended use of the building
- Structural requirements and panel spans
- Local environmental and weather conditions
- Installation requirements
- Applicable building codes and project specifications
There isn’t one gauge that is right for every project. Working with your contractor, designer or building professional can help determine the appropriate option for your specific application.
2. Choose a profile that works for the building
The profile is the shape and design of the steel panel. It can influence everything from the appearance of the building to how the panel performs as part of the overall system.
For roofing and siding, different profiles offer different combinations of aesthetics, coverage, strength and installation characteristics. Some create a clean, contemporary appearance, while others deliver a more traditional or agricultural look.
When selecting a profile, consider:
The look you want to achieve – The profile can dramatically influence the character of a building. Think about whether you want a modern, streamlined exterior or a more traditional aesthetic.
The application – Roofing and siding have different performance requirements, and some profiles are designed specifically for particular applications.
The building design – Consider how the profile will work with other exterior materials, architectural features, rooflines, windows and doors.
Performance requirements – The best profile balances the visual direction of the project with the performance requirements needed to get the job done.
3. Make color part of the design
Once you’ve considered profile and gauge, color is where you can bring the design together.
Vicwest’s steel roofing and siding offer far more than basic neutrals. From timeless blacks, greys and whites to bright colorful options, warm earth tones and woodgrain-inspired finishes, Vicwest’s extensive color offering can help create a distinctive exterior while complementing the surrounding environment.
When choosing a color, consider:
- The architectural style of the building
- Surrounding buildings and landscape
- Other exterior materials
- The desired visual impact
- How the color will work across roofing, siding and trim
- The long-term look you want to achieve
For projects where natural materials are part of the design vision, metal can also provide the visual character of wood while offering the durability and performance benefits of steel.
Putting it all together
Gauge, profile and color shouldn’t be considered independently. Together, they help determine the right combination of performance, practicality and design for your project.
A commercial building may call for a specific gauge and profile to meet structural and performance requirements, paired with a color that reinforces its architectural identity. An agricultural building may prioritize durability and functionality while using color and profile to complement its surroundings.
The key is to start with the requirements of the building and then select the product combination that supports them.
Build with confidence
Choosing the right Vicwest steel roofing or siding product doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the role of gauge, profile and color, you can approach your next project with a clearer picture of what you need and why.
At Vicwest, we offer a range of U.S.-made steel roofing and siding products designed for a variety of commercial, agricultural, and residential applications. From the performance of the panel to the finish that brings your design to life, the right combination can help create a building that looks great and is built to perform.
Ready to find the right combination for your project? Explore Vicwest products to or connect with our team to get started.
