What Is the SMI 1.0” FWP Flush Wall and Soffit Panel? Features, Advantages, Best Uses, Installation Tips

Learn about the SMI 1.0″ FWP Flush Wall & Soffit Panel in this article, where we review its features, advantages, best uses, and installation tips.

Finding the right panel for metal roofing projects can be challenging. You want to make sure you’re providing the right choice for your customer while also ensuring it has the durability and testing standards you’re looking for. It can be helpful to find information on various panels to find the right product for you.

Sheffield Metals International (SMI), a leading distributor of metal coils and sheets, is dedicated to helping our customers get the guidance they need. From our high-quality products to the library of content in the Metal Roofing Learning Center, we give our customers the resources to succeed.

In this article, we’ll look at the specifics of Sheffield Metals’ 1.0” FWP Flush Wall and Soffit Panel, including:

  • Overview
  • Features (Specs, Engineering, Testing, Warranties)
  • Advantages
  • Best Uses
  • When Not to Use This Panel
  • How to Install

SMI 1.0” FWP Flush Wall and Soffit Panel Overview

Close up of the SMI 1.0" FWP Flush Wall & Soffit Panel

The SMI 1.0” FWP Flush Wall and Soffit Panel provides a modern appearance with impressive structural durability and is primarily designed for vertical installation. It can also be used horizontally on walls as under decking, or soffit, with optional perforation.

SMI 1.0” FWP Flush Wall and Soffit Panel Features: Specs, Engineering, Testing, Warranties

SMI 1.0" Flush Wall & Soffit Panel informational graphic

SMI 1.0” FWP Flush Wall & Soffit Panel Specs and Engineering

The SMI 1.0” Flush Wall and Soffit Panel measures approximately 12” wide and is made from 16” of coil, utilizing 4” of material. Its installation does not use clips, and it can be formed with up to a 3” reveal in ½” increments and features a 1” seam height. It’s available in 22 and 24-gauge metal.

The unique engineering of this panel makes it highly durable and suitable for extreme weather environments.

SMI 1.0” FWP Flush Wall & Soffit Panel Testing

A metal roofing panel being tested

The SMI 1.0” Flush Wall and Soffit Panel is tested for uplift resistance with ASTM E 1592, air infiltration with ASTM E 283, and water penetration with ASTM E 331.

Testing is integral to wall and roof panels. With the right testing in place, you can be sure that the profiles you’re getting are built to withstand harsh weather conditions and varying climates. It’s important to understand the nuances involved in testing when it comes to wall vs. roof profiles, and how these testing standards differ based on the panel’s unique application.

Roof profiles are typically tested for factors such as:

  • Wind uplifts
  • Water penetration
  • Structural load-bearing capabilities

While wall panels are tested for different aspects like:

  • Air and water infiltration
  • Impact resistance
  • Thermal performance

These testing standards differ because roofs and walls experience very different forces and environmental interactions.  

When choosing materials for your specific application, it’s important to understand these intricacies to ensure that your chosen profile meets the standards for its intended use.

SMI 1.0” FWP Flush Wall & Soffit Panel Warranties

Close up the SMI 1.0" FWP Flush Wall & Soffit panels side by side

The SMI 1.0″ Flush Wall and Soffit Panel offers weathertight warranties when installed according to Sheffield Metals guidelines. Note that the reveal option is not engineered for weathertight warranties. Horizontal installations, along with under decking and soffit applications, do not qualify for weathertight warranties.

This SMI 1.0” Flush Wall and Soffit Panel also includes Sheffield’s standard 40-year PVDF paint warranties and Galvalume warranties.

SMI 1.0” FWP Flush Wall and Soffit Panel Advantages

Fire department showcasing Sheffield's wall panels

Variety of Applications

One of the most significant advantages of the SMI1.0” Flush Wall and Soffit Panel is its versatility. Its modern appearance allows it to be installed on a variety of different structures, from large-scale commercial buildings to residential homes.

This panel can be used as both a wall and a soffit panel and is available with or without perforations. It can be installed as a wall panel vertically, horizontally, flush, or with reveal.

Download the Your Guide to Metal Roof Design e-book here!

Durability

This panel has been tested for wind uplifts, air infiltration, and water penetration, ensuring its robustness and longevity. If you’re looking for a panel with impressive strength and durability, the SMI 1.0” Flush Wall and Soffit Panel could be the choice for you.

Modern Appearance

This panel is popular for its clean lines and contemporary design, frequently chosen for modern architectural styles.

Where Should You Use the SMI 1.0” FWP Flush Wall and Soffit Panel?

A commercial building with Sheffield's metal wall panels

With its modern aesthetic, the SMI 1.0” Flush Wall and Soffit Panel is ideal for commercial applications and contemporary residential projects. Its versatility allows it to be used for under decking and soffit applications. You can find this panel on a variety of structures, including:

  • Office buildings
  • Fire stations
  • Schools
  • Zoo structures

When Is the SMI 1.0” FWP Flush Wall and Soffit Panel Not the Right Option?

The SMI 1.0” Flush Wall and Soffit Panel does require a labor-intensive installation process. If you’re looking for a simple installation, this may not be the right panel for you.

Likewise, if your project requires specific orientations like horizontal wall installations, keep in mind that Sheffield’s weathertight warranty will not cover horizontal applications.

Download the Panel Profile Quick Reference Guide here!

How Do You Install SMI 1.0” FWP Flush Wall and Soffit Panels?

When installed correctly, the SMI 1.0” Flush Wall and Soffit panel is highly effective for both performance and aesthetics. It does require a labor-intensive installation process, as the panels need to be stitch-screwed together at the seams.  

To adhere to engineering, attach the panel to 16-gauge structural members, spaced no greater than 48” on center using #12-16” X 1”self-drilling pancake head fasteners.

Example of installed SMI 1.0" FWP Flush Wall & Soffit Panels

A continuous strip of 3/32” and ½” butyl tape must be installed in the vertical seam, and the seam must be stitch-screwed every 24” on center using the #12-16” X 1”self-drilling pancake head fasteners.

Where Can I Learn More About the SMI 1.0” FWP Flush Wall and Soffit Panel?

In this article, we provided a full outline of Sheffield Metals’ 1.0” FWP Flush Wall and Soffit Panel, including specifics like the warranties it offers and tips for installation. Now that you’re done reading, you should have a better idea of whether this panel is right for your metal roofing project.

For more information on this panel profile, feel free to visit our website or contact our team using the link below.

Contact Sheffield Metals today!