Case Study: How an Ice Cream Shop Transformed Its Exterior with Flush Wall Panels
Learn how architectural metal wall panels helped bring the Zesto project to life, from material selection and installation support to the finished design.
Architectural Case Study
A Modern Metal Exterior Built to Stand Out
See how architectural metal panels helped create a clean, durable, and recognizable exterior for this commercial project.
And How Sheffield Metals Helped Connect the Right Contractor, Materials, and Technical Support for a Commercial Renovation
Key Results at a Glance
- Commercial building completely transformed with 24-gauge Flush Wall Panels
- Building owner avoided stucco maintenance concerns
- Contractor successfully installed a new panel profile for the first time
- Material delivered within two days from Sheffield Metals
- Technical support available throughout installation
- Complete commercial façade installed using on-site rollforming
Project Overview
Zesto
A quick look at the materials, applications, and partners behind this commercial metal project.
Zesto Case StudyThe Challenge: Finding the Right Solution for a Commercial Renovation
When John Diettrich decided to renovate the exterior of Zesto Ice Cream in Fort Wayne, Indiana, he wasn’t just looking for a cosmetic upgrade.
He wanted an exterior that would:
- Hold up better than stucco
- Resist impacts and weather
- Modernize the appearance of the building
- Stand out along one of Fort Wayne’s busiest streets
Finding the right material was only half the battle.
Finding a contractor capable of installing a modern architectural wall panel system proved even more difficult.
The biggest challenge was just finding somebody to do the work.
-John Diettrich, Building Owner
After nearly two years of planning, Sheffield Metals’ Steve Gansey helped bring the entire project together.
Why Metal Instead of Stucco?
Initially, John wasn’t convinced metal was the right choice.
Like many commercial property owners, he worried about durability.
Because the building regularly experiences public traffic—including children playing nearby, setting their bikes against the building—impact resistance mattered.
After reviewing panel options and learning more about heavier-gauge material, John chose Sheffield Metals’ 24-gauge Regal White Flush Wall Panel instead of a lighter 26-gauge alternative.
After watching the video Steve sent me, I definitely wanted the thicker metal. It would just hold up better.
-John Diettrich, Building Owner
The decision addressed two major concerns simultaneously:
- Better long-term durability
- Lower exterior maintenance than stucco
Connecting the Owner with the Right Contractor
Supplying material wasn’t enough.
The project still needed an installer.
Rather than simply shipping metal, Sheffield Metals connected John with ABC Seamless, a local contractor led by BJ Tippmann.
This partnership helped move the project from planning into production.
We contacted a local contractor . . . and had great conversations.”
-John Diettrich, Building Owner
The Contractor’s Challenge: Installing a New Panel System
For ABC Seamless, this wasn’t just another siding installation.
It was their first project producing Sheffield Metals’ Flush Wall Panel profile.
That required selecting the right portable rollformer and learning an entirely new production process.
After consulting with Sheffield Metals, the team selected a New Tech Machinery SSQ II portable rollformer capable of producing the 1.0″ Flush Wall Panel profile.
Rather than using battens, the system creates a clean, continuous architectural appearance.
It’s about connecting . . . certain people together and getting the right training and taking the time so that the contractor feels comfortable putting material through that machine.
-Steve Gansey, Branch Manager
Technical Support Helped Keep the Project Moving
Like most first-time installations, questions came up during the project.
Instead of leaving the contractor to troubleshoot alone, Sheffield Metals’ technical team stayed involved throughout production.
Questions included:
- Fastener selection
- Substrate evaluation
- Panel installation
- Machine setup
- Material recommendations
At one point, the contractor discovered the originally ordered pancake screws weren’t long enough.
One phone call solved the issue.
Longer fasteners were sourced immediately, preventing unnecessary project delays.
No problem. We got some three-inch pancake screws coming his way.
– Steve Gansey, Branch Manager
Sheffield Metals also made technical leadership available throughout the installation.
For contractors installing new profiles, that level of support reduces uncertainty while helping avoid costly mistakes.
Fast Material Delivery Kept the Schedule on Track
One concern the contractor initially had was working with a supplier located outside the immediate area.
That concern disappeared quickly.
After the order was placed, Sheffield Metals shipped material in approximately two days.
Regional inventory from Sheffield Metals’ Midwest locations—including East Chicago, Indiana, and Sheffield Village, Ohio—allowed material to arrive much faster than expected.
Fast regional distribution helped maintain the installation schedule while giving the contractor confidence working with Sheffield Metals for future projects.
The Finished Result: A Modern Commercial Exterior
Once installation was complete, the difference was dramatic.
The building owner gained:
- A modern architectural appearance
- Increased confidence in long-term durability
- A low-maintenance exterior
- A unique storefront that immediately attracted attention
I was a little hesitant with metal at first, but now that it’s finished, I’m very happy. People look at the finished product and ask, ‘Who did this?
-John Diettrich, Building Owner
The transformation became more than an exterior renovation—it became a marketing tool for the contractor’s business.
More Than Metal: A Complete Project Partner
Throughout the project, Sheffield Metals provided more than coil and sheet.
The company helped with:
- Product selection
- Contractor referrals
- Machine recommendations
- Technical support
- Material logistics
- Regional inventory
- Weathertight warranty assistance
As Steve Gansey explained:
“We’ll help you from the start of the project all the way to the finish.”
That level of involvement helps reduce project risk while making it easier for contractors and building owners to complete successful commercial metal projects.
Project Snapshot
Project Approach
Results.
From material selection and contractor coordination to equipment guidance and jobsite support, Sheffield Metals helped move the project forward at every stage.
Why This Project Matters
Commercial building owners often assume metal wall panels are difficult to source or install.
This project demonstrates that with the right contractor, equipment, and supplier partnership, architectural metal wall systems can be delivered quickly while providing long-term durability and a modern appearance.
Whether you’re renovating a restaurant, retail space, office, or other commercial building, success depends on more than just choosing the right panel.
It requires a partner that can provide technical expertise, regional inventory, and contractor support from planning through installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Start Your Next Commercial Metal Project?
Whether you’re a contractor looking to expand into architectural wall panels or a building owner planning a commercial renovation, having the right partner can make all the difference.
From selecting the right panel profile to providing technical support, regional inventory, and contractor connections, Sheffield Metals helps simplify every stage of the project.
Our team can help you:
- Select the right wall panel system
- Compare material and finish options
- Connect with qualified contractors
- Answer technical installation questions
- Provide project-specific guidance
- Support weathertight warranty requirements
- Deliver materials through our nationwide branch network
Ready to get started?
Contact a Sheffield Metals representative today to discuss your project, request a quote, or learn how our architectural metal wall systems can help bring your next commercial renovation to life.
