Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about Vicwest roofing, siding, installation, maintenance, finishes, and warranties. Explore guidance on Bellara, AD panels, standing seam roofing, exposed fastener roofing, and steel siding.
AD Architectural Wall Panels
What is the AD Series?
The AD Series is Vicwest’s concealed-fastener architectural wall panel system for clean, modern exterior designs.
What is the difference between AD150 and AD300?
AD150 and AD300 offer different panel appearances at the same overall width, both using concealed fastening systems.
Can AD150 and AD300 be combined on one building?
Yes. They can be combined to create contrast, highlight building features, or achieve a customized exterior design.
Can AD panels be installed vertically or horizontally?
Yes. AD panels can be installed in either orientation depending on the project’s design requirements.
Can AD panels be incorporated into rainscreen wall assemblies?
Yes. AD panels can be used in ventilated rainscreen assemblies to support moisture management and wall performance.
Bellara Steel Siding
What is Bellara?
Bellara is Vicwest’s premium steel siding system, combining the look of natural wood with the durability and low maintenance of steel.
Which Bellara profiles are available?
Bellara is available in Plank 90, Plank 135, Plank 200, Board & Batten, and Lap Siding. Each profile offers a distinct exterior look.
Can Bellara Plank be installed vertically and horizontally?
Yes. Bellara Plank 90, 135, and 200 can be installed vertically or horizontally for different design styles.
Can Bellara be installed over strapping?
Yes. Bellara can be installed over strapping, with typical residential support spacing between 16 and 24 inches on centre.
Does Bellara need to be painted or stained?
No. Bellara features a durable factory-applied finish, so routine painting or staining is not required.
Exposed Fastener Steel Roofing
What is exposed fastener roofing?
Exposed fastener roofing uses visible fasteners installed through the face of the metal panels. It is used across residential, agricultural, commercial, and industrial buildings.
How does exposed fastener roofing differ from standing seam roofing?
Exposed fastener systems have visible fasteners, while standing seam roofing conceals the fasteners beneath the panels.
Is exposed fastener roofing an economical roofing option?
Yes. It offers a practical balance of cost, appearance, and performance for many building applications.
Can a damaged exposed fastener panel be replaced?
Yes, individual damaged panels can often be replaced. The process depends on the specific profile and installation method.
How often should an exposed fastener roof be inspected?
An annual inspection is recommended. Check fasteners, flashings, sealants, and other roof components for maintenance needs.
General Steel Siding
Why choose steel siding?
Steel siding offers durability, weather resistance, low maintenance, and lasting exterior appeal for a wide range of building applications.
Does steel siding rust?
Modern steel siding uses protective coatings and paint systems that provide strong corrosion resistance when properly installed and maintained.
Does steel siding need regular painting?
No. Vicwest steel siding includes factory-applied finishes designed for long-term performance without routine painting.
Can steel siding be cleaned?
Yes. Use mild soap, water, and a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt and environmental buildup.
Can steel siding be installed vertically?
Yes. Many profiles can be installed vertically, horizontally, or in combination, depending on the product and design requirements.
Paint Systems, Colours and Finishes
What paint system does Vicwest use?
Vicwest uses WeatherXL®, a high-performance silicone-modified polyester coating designed for durability and long-term appearance.
What is WeatherXL?
WeatherXL is a premium paint system for steel roofing and siding, designed to resist fading, chalking, and weathering.
What warranty is available for WeatherXL finishes?
Most standard WeatherXL applications are backed by a 40-year limited warranty. Check the applicable warranty for product-specific details.
Will the colour of my steel roof or siding fade?
Some weathering and colour change can occur over time. WeatherXL is designed to provide strong colour retention and reduce fading.
What is chalking?
Chalking is a natural weathering process in which small amounts of surface pigment gradually break down due to UV exposure and environmental conditions.
What causes colour fading?
Colour fading is mainly caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight, UV rays, weather, and environmental conditions. WeatherXL is designed to help minimize these effects.
Can Vicwest roofing and siding colours be matched?
Many Vicwest colours are available across multiple product lines, making it possible to coordinate roofing, siding, trims, and accessories for a more consistent building exterior.
Can steel roofing or siding be repainted?
Yes. Steel roofing and siding can be repainted when appropriate preparation methods and compatible coating systems are used. Professional services are recommended for the best results, and repainting will void the original warranties.
What are the benefits of a factory-applied finish?
Factory-applied finishes are applied under controlled manufacturing conditions, helping provide consistent coating coverage, colour uniformity, and dependable long-term finish performance.
What is SMP?
SMP, or Silicone Modified Polyester is a coating provided by Sherwin Williams under their trademark WeatherXL. They form 90% of all Vicwest Signature and Signature Matte colours. Our Signature Matte colours incorporate resin that is specifically intended to create a textured matte finish, scattering light and eliminating the steel’s glossy appearance.
What is PVDF?
PVDF, or Polyvinylidene Fluoride (Fluropon) is part of our Expressence Architectural Print Series. This system uses an innovative, thick-film primer to thrive in the most severe coastal environments. PVDF coating system allows us to recreate the look of natural materials in steel products. Before Bellara Steel Siding is formed, it is printed with a high resolution pattern that mimics wood. If you’re planning project within 1,500 feet of the sea, look to Coastal Coating to deliver long-lasting protection.
Standing Seam Steel Roofing
What is standing seam roofing?
Standing seam roofing uses raised seams with concealed fasteners to create a clean roof surface and provide strong weather protection. It is widely used as a premium metal roofing.
Which standing seam roofing systems does Vicwest offer?
Vicwest’s standing seam roofing systems include TSR 1000, TSR 2000, TSR 3000, Marquis 450, Prestige, Regency, Tradition 100, and Tradition 150.
Can solar panels be installed on a standing seam roof?
Yes. Many standing seam roofing systems can work with clamp-on solar mounting systems that attach without requiring penetrations through the roof surface.
Does standing seam roofing require maintenance?
Yes. Periodic inspections are recommended. Removing accumulated debris, keeping gutters clean, and checking roof flashings can help support the roofing system throughout its service life.
Is standing seam roofing suitable for Canadian weather?
Yes. Standing seam roofing systems are designed to handle demanding weather conditions, including heavy rain, snow, wind, and changing temperatures common across Canada.
Steel Roofing and Siding Maintenance
How often should I inspect my steel roof?
Inspect your steel roof at least once a year and after major weather events. This helps identify debris, damaged flashing, or other maintenance needs early.
How often should I inspect my steel siding?
Inspect steel siding once or twice a year. Check for dirt buildup, impact damage, debris, or areas that may need attention.
How should I clean a steel roof?
Use warm water, a mild detergent, and a soft cloth or soft-bristled brush. Rinse the surface thoroughly with clean water afterward.
How should I clean steel siding?
Clean steel siding with warm water and a mild detergent solution. This helps remove dirt, pollen, and other surface contaminants.
Can steel roofing or siding be pressure washed?
Low-pressure washing may be used in some cases, with the nozzle kept at least two metres away. Avoid excessive pressure that could damage the finish.
Is steel roofing slippery?
Yes. Steel roofing can become slippery when wet, icy, frosty, or covered with debris, so proper fall protection should always be used.
Can I walk on a steel roof?
Yes, when necessary, but foot traffic should be limited. Use proper safety equipment and take care to avoid damaging the roof.
How should moss or algae be removed from steel roofing?
Use warm water, mild detergent, and a soft-bristled brush, then rinse with clean water. Avoid cleaning methods that could damage the finish.
What ongoing maintenance does a steel roof require?
Typical maintenance includes annual inspections, debris removal, gutter and drain cleaning, and checking flashings and roof penetrations.
What maintenance does steel siding require?
Steel siding needs minimal maintenance beyond occasional cleaning and inspections for dirt, debris, or visible damage.
Vicwest Product Warranties
What warranty is available on Vicwest products?
Vicwest warranties mainly cover the long-term performance of painted finishes, including excessive fading and chalking. Inspect materials before installation and report visible concerns promptly.
What does a Vicwest warranty cover?
Coverage varies by product and warranty but generally focuses on paint performance and factory-applied finish integrity.
Does a Vicwest warranty cover installation errors?
No. Vicwest warranties do not cover workmanship issues or problems caused by improper installation.
Does the warranty cover colour fading?
Some warranties cover excessive colour fading beyond specified limits. Refer to the applicable warranty for details.
Does the warranty cover chalking?
Many finish warranties cover excessive chalking when it exceeds the limits defined in the warranty terms.
Does the warranty cover rust or corrosion?
Corrosion is not covered under the FAQ guidance. Review the applicable warranty for specific corrosion-related terms and exclusions.
Can a Vicwest warranty be transferred?
Transferability depends on the product and warranty program. Check the applicable warranty for transfer requirements.
What can affect or void warranty coverage?
Improper installation, unauthorized modifications, incompatible materials, or failure to follow manufacturer requirements may affect coverage.
How do I submit a Vicwest warranty claim?
Submit the claim in writing within 30 days of discovering the issue. Start with your installer, or contact your dealer with proof of purchase if you installed the product yourself.
Where can I find more information about warranties, care and maintenance?
Please visit our Warranty, Care & Maintenance page for more information.
If we weren’t able to answer your question, please reach out to our Customer Service team.
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Explore our product pages, technical resources, installation guides, maintenance information, and warranty documents for more information about our products and systems.
