When should you install 26-gauge steel?
Sheffield Metals International provides metal coils, sheets, and accessories to the architectural metal industry. We stock bare and painted 22, 24, and 26-gauge steel in a variety of color options. We’ve worked with contractors all over the country and understand what gauge works best for all different kinds of projects.
In this article, we’ll look at the pros and cons of 26-gauge steel, how it compares to other gauge thicknesses, and what type of projects it’s best suited for. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll know whether 26-gauge steel is right for your project.
What Is 26-Gauge Steel?
26-gauge steel is 0.018” thick, thinner than both 24-gauge steel (0.023”) and 22-gauge steel (0.0299”). Contractors use 26-gauge steel mostly on residential applications because of its lower cost. It’s used often on exposed fastener metal roofs, which is a system that fastens panels directly to the roof deck or framing via screws.
26-gauge is also used for residential standing seam metal roofs. Keep in mind, however, that 24-gauge offers better durability and engineering for a minimal cost difference and can be a better material choice for a standing seam system.
The easy workability of 26-gauge also makes it an appealing choice for homeowners and contractors.
Advantages
Economical Option
26-gauge is less expensive than both 24 and 22-gauge steel since it’s not as thick — it can range from 8-15% less expensive than 24-gauge. Remember that 26-gauge will not offer the level of rigidity and protection 24 and 22-gauge will, so homeowners will have to balance their level of risk against their budget.
The best steel thickness for a metal roof will in part depend on your region — milder climates may not need the extra rigidity of 24-gauge, while in Miami-Dade county in Florida, or areas that experience intense and frequent hail, may want to opt for the engineering and extra durability offered by those thicker metals like 24 and 22-gauge.
Easier to Work With
26-gauge steel is easier to bend, hem, and cut than thicker metals. This easier workability can also cut down on the time it takes to install panels and make adjustments during the project.
Thicker metals such as 22-gauge can significantly slow down installation because they’re harder to cut and bend. And if your project has a lot of cut-ups that require custom details, using a thinner metal can help you move the project along and stay on schedule.
Those looking for a material that is easy to work with during a project can benefit from working with 26-gauge steel.
Good Choice for Residential Applications (Depending on Project Requirements)
26-gauge steel is a go-to option for residential projects, especially those using an exposed fastener system. Residential projects are often under a tighter budget and don’t require the level of engineering that a commercial project would, so the lower-cost options — exposed fastener systems, SMP paint systems, and 26-gauge steel, can be used.
These options still offer great durability or longevity, just not up to the level that a standing seam metal roof, with a PVDF paint system and 24-gauge steel to match, would provide.
Still, 26-gauge steel, if located in the right region without requirements for a thicker metal, will work well for residential projects.
Disadvantages
Lack of Engineering
26-gauge does not offer the level of protection of 24-gauge and doesn’t have the amount of available engineering and testing. The engineering of a metal roof refers to how the entire roofing system is put together to last and meet various testing standards, including wind uplifts, fire ratings, and water penetration testing. Engineering is crucial because it ensures a roof can withstand the weather for your location.
The key difference between 26-gauge steel and thicker gauges when it comes to engineering is the wind uplift rating. Thicker gauges will do a better job of defending the roof from severe winds.
Contractors working on projects requiring engineering and testing are better off using 24-gauge, as there will be more engineering options.
Less Rigid
The thinner the metal, the less rigid it is, and the easier it will be to bend, dent, and show aesthetic issues like oil canning. The lack of rigidity means the metal will form to the shape of the decking more so than a thicker metal. If the decking is not in plane, the metal will form to this, and the perceived waves known as oil canning will be easier to see.
Less rigidity makes a roof more susceptible to denting. If your region receives excessive hail, you may want to consider a thicker metal to protect the appearance of the roof.
May Not Be Available in High-Quality Paint Systems
Custom color options and paint systems may not be as readily available for 26-gauge steel. While most 24-gauge steel is coated with PVDF, a lot of 26-gauge material is paired with SMP. SMP paint systems, while not as expensive as PVDF systems, do not offer the color retention and chalking characteristics of PVDF. Color and paint system availability will also depend on what metal supplier you’re using.
Best Uses for 26-Gauge Steel
When Budget is a Major Consideration
Again, one of the main reasons customers want to use 26-gauge for their project is because it is the least expensive option when compared to 24 and 22-gauge steel. If budget is a major concern and the project is suited for 26-gauge steel, then this thickness could be a good choice.
Residential Projects in Mild Climates
Homes located in regions that do not experience extreme, harsh weather such as severe hail, hurricanes, or tornadoes will likely be okay using 26-gauge steel. These types of roofs may not require engineering or can use an exposed fastener roof, in which case 26-gauge steel could be the right material.
Looking for More Information on What Gauge to Use?
Is 26-gauge steel right for your project?
As discussed in this article, 26-gauge steel could be right for your project if it’s residential and doesn’t require extensive engineering and testing. By now, you should have a better idea of whether 26-gauge is the right fit for your project. Feel free to check out our additional related content in the Metal Roofing Learning Center:
24 vs. 26-gauge Metal Roofing: Which Steel Thickness Is Best For You?
Should You Install 22-Gauge Steel on Your Metal Roofing Project? – Sheffield Metals
Sheffield Metals stocks bare and coated metal coils and sheets, including 26, 24, and 22-gauge steel. Contact us today to learn more about our offerings or to place an order.
