Board-and-batten has been around for roughly as long as people have nailed boards to buildings. Vertical planks with narrow strips over the seams — originally a practical way to close gaps in green lumber, later one of the most durable looks in American architecture. The problem has always been the wood. Board-and-batten in timber means painting, caulking, rot at the base, and a maintenance cycle that never ends. The look is timeless; the upkeep is relentless. Metal Batten so

Ridge vents get all the attention. They're visible, they're a discrete product, and they're easy to point at. But a ridge vent is an exhaust. Exhaust without intake is a straw with your thumb over the end — and the intake, on almost every building, is the soffit. Get the soffit wrong and the ventilation system you paid for doesn't function, no matter how good the ridge detail is. Here's how to spec metal soffit so the whole assembly actually works. Why Intake Is The Half That

Looking back at our growth, Metal Wholesale LLC was honored with the prestigious Iowa Venture Award, nominated by our partners at Southern Iowa Electric Cooperative Metal Wholesale Recognized with Iowa Venture Award A year ago, the Iowa Area Development Group and its rural electric cooperative partners presented Metal Wholesale with a 2025 Iowa Venture Award at the Southern Iowa Electric Cooperative annual meeting. It is an award for entrepreneurial vision and community impac

For many agricultural, utility, and budget-conscious projects, an exposed-fastener roof is the practical choice because wide panels and direct attachment can simplify installation and control material and labor costs. It can also be a good fit when the roof geometry and panel lengths match the manufacturer’s installation requirements. For a residence or design-led commercial building where clean lines, reduced visible hardware, and long-term thermal movement are priorities, a

Two ribbed steel panels. Both exposed fasteners. Both go on roofs and walls. From forty feet away on a finished building, a lot of people couldn't tell you which is which. Up close, they're built for different structural jobs—and once you understand what the rib is doing, the specification decision gets simple. What The Rib Is For The rib isn't decoration. A flat sheet of steel spanning between supports deflects under load. Form a rib into it, and you dramatically increase it

A metal roof is a panel system held together by thousands of small decisions, and almost every one of them is a screw. Panels rarely fail. Fasteners do—usually because the wrong one was specified or the right one was driven badly. Both are entirely preventable, and both cost far more to fix later than to get right the first time. Here's how to select and install metal roofing fasteners properly. Start With the Substrate This is the first fork, and it's non-negotiable. What ar

The call usually comes in spring. A customer's shop is dripping. They've been up on the roof, they can't find anything wrong, and they want to know why the roof you sold them leaks. It doesn't. Ask one question: was it raining? If water is falling inside a building on a clear day, you're not dealing with a leak. You're dealing with condensation, and it's one of the most common — and most misdiagnosed—problems in post-frame construction. Metal Roof Condensation Control for Pos

There are two families of metal roofing and one long-running argument about them. Exposed fastener systems screw through the panel face into the framing below. Standing seam systems attach with concealed fasteners under the seam, so nothing penetrates the weather surface. Everything else — cost, install time, lead time, appearance, service life — follows from that one structural difference. Neither is the "better" system. They're built for different jobs, and specifying the w

Every metal roofing order comes down to this question eventually, and it usually gets answered badly — either "heavier is better, always" or "the customer won't pay for it." Both are lazy. The right answer depends on the building, the span, the climate, and what the customer is going to do with the structure for the next thirty years. Here's how to make the call quickly and defend it at the counter. First, get the direction right. Gauge runs backwards, which trips people up c

Most people replace a roof twice in their life, and the second time they think much harder about it than the first. That's usually when metal shingles enter the conversation. You've lived through a full asphalt cycle — you've seen the granules in the gutter, the curled edges on the south face, the shingle that went missing after a summer storm — and you start asking whether there's something that doesn't do that. Metal shingles vs. asphalt shingles is the comparison that foll

Close-up view of premium metal shingles installed on a residential roof Upgrading your home’s roof can be a smart move. It protects your investment, boosts curb appeal, and can even save you money over time. One roofing option that stands out is metal shingles. They combine durability, style, and energy efficiency in a way few other materials can match. If you want a roof that lasts, looks great, and handles tough weather, metal shingles are worth considering. Let’s explore w

When you’re searching for a trusted metal building provider, you want more than just metal. You want reliability, quality, and a partner who understands your needs. Whether you’re managing a lumberyard, a building supply business, or working in construction, the right metal supplier can make all the difference. Let’s break down how to find that perfect match. Why Choosing a Trusted Metal Building Provider Matters Picking the right supplier isn’t just about price. It’s about t

Learn about metal roof installation cost, including factors like labor and materials. Use our estimator to bid effectively on your projects!

Ensure your ridge vent metal roof performs optimally. Follow our installation checklist for moisture control and compatibility tips.

Discover the benefits of retrofit metal roofing. Learn about key factors, cost savings, and efficient installation to enhance your project.

Why the best contractors look under the roof to ensure a building's longevity and style. When you picture a beautifully finished home or commercial building, your eyes usually go straight to the bold roofline or the main siding. But often, the true mark of architectural quality lies in the subtle elements—like the soffit. The soffit, located on the underside of your roof’s eaves, plays a massive role in both the aesthetics and long-term health of a building. Today, savvy cont

When it comes to roofing solutions in Kansas, you want something that stands up to the weather, lasts long, and fits your budget. AG panel roofing is a smart choice. It’s tough, efficient, and designed to meet the unique needs of the region. Let’s dive into why AG panel roofing is gaining popularity and how it can benefit your projects. Why It Works for Kansas: Kansas weather can be unpredictable. From hot summers to cold winters and occasional storms, your roofing needs to b

Choosing the right supplier for your metal building needs can make or break your project. You want a partner who delivers quality materials on time, offers reliable service, and understands the demands of your business. With so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This guide will help you cut through the noise and find a supplier that fits your needs perfectly. What to Look for in a Metal Building Supplier When you’re sourcing metal building materials, sever

For years, asphalt shingles and vinyl siding were the go-to choices for homes and businesses. They were familiar, affordable, and seemed to get the job done. But times are changing, and in 2026, a quiet revolution is sweeping across the construction industry: metal roofing and siding. More homeowners and savvy contractors are discovering the undeniable benefits of metal, making the switch for reasons that go far beyond just looks. At Metal Wholesale, we've seen this shift fir

Choosing the right roofing material is one of the most critical decisions for any property owner, impacting everything from curb appeal and energy efficiency to long-term maintenance and resale value. In 2026, the debate between metal roofing and traditional asphalt shingles continues, with advancements in both materials offering compelling arguments. This article provides a comprehensive comparison to help both homeowners and contractors make informed decisions. Upfront Cost