All posts by Brandon Cordoves

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3 Reasons You Need To Use Copper For Your Roof Design

When it comes to designing and constructing a building, there are countless materials to choose from and each has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. With that said, when it comes to roofing materials, one of the most popular choices among architects is copper. Copper has been used in roofing for centuries and continues to be one of the most popular choices for both residential and commercial structures. A remarkable building material, architectural copper offers significant benefits designed to ensure longevity for decades to come. Some of the key benefits that come with architectural copper roofing include:

Durability

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a roofing material is durability. A roof is a big investment and you want to make sure that it will last for many years. Copper is one of the most durable roofing materials on the market. It can withstand high winds, hail, and other extreme weather conditions. Copper roofs have been known to last for over 100 years with proper care and maintenance. Thus, you can rest assured knowing once incorporated, your project’s roof will provide ample support and protection against the elements for years to come.

Low Maintenance

Another important factor to consider when choosing a roofing material is maintenance. Nobody wants to spend their time and money constantly repairing and maintaining their roof. Fortunately, copper roofs require very little maintenance. They are resistant to mold, mildew, algae, and other types of growth. Copper roofs also do not need to be replaced as often as other types of roofs.

Aesthetics

Copper is a beautiful metal that can add a touch of elegance to any building. Copper roofs can be found on some of the most famous buildings in the world including St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City and Buckingham Palace in London. If you are looking for a roofing material that will make your building stand out from the rest, copper is an excellent choice.

There are many factors to consider when choosing a roofing material for your next project. But if you are looking for a durable, low-maintenance, and aesthetically-pleasing option, copper should be at the top of your list. With a copper roof, you will be able to enjoy peace of mind knowing that your investment will last for many years to come.

If you’ve been considering architectural copper roofing for your next design, look no further than Wieland-Wrisco. For over 100 years, we’ve proudly been the leading supplier of metal sheeting products for various projects and teams across the country. To learn more about how we can supply your next project, contact us today online and a team member will be more than happy to assist!

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Blog, Metal Supplier

How Light is Aluminum?

When it comes to construction, one of the most important considerations is weight. This is especially true for large structures like skyscrapers. The lighter the materials used in construction, the less strain there will be on the foundation and supporting beams. This is why aluminum has become such a popular choice for construction in recent years. But just how light is aluminum?

How Light is Aluminum?

Aluminum is one of the lightest metals in existence. In fact, it’s about one-third as dense as iron. That means that a bar of aluminum that weighs one pound would have to be nearly three feet long to have the same weight as a one-pound iron bar. It weighs in at around 2.7 g/cm3. This makes aluminum an ideal choice for construction projects where weight is a major consideration.

Aluminum also has a very high strength-to-weight ratio. This means that it can support a large amount of weight without being too heavy itself. This makes it ideal for use in constructing aircraft and other vehicles where weight is a major factor.

Aluminum Applications

Exterior Cladding

Another common use for aluminum in architecture is exterior cladding. When used as cladding, aluminum can help protect a building from the elements while also providing an aesthetic element. Aluminum cladding is often used on the outside of commercial buildings, as it is an effective way to achieve both function and style.

Interior Elements

In addition to being used in exterior applications, aluminum is also frequently used in interior applications such as handrails, partitions, ceiling systems, and more. Thanks to its resistance to corrosion, aluminum is an ideal material for use in high-moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens. Additionally, its smooth surface makes it easy to clean and maintain, which is always a bonus in busy areas like office buildings and schools.

So, how light is aluminum? Quite light, actually. It’s one of the lightest metals in existence and has a very high strength-to-weight ratio. That makes it ideal for use in constructing aircraft, automobiles, and other structures where weight is a major consideration. If you’re looking for a metal that won’t add too much strain on your foundation, aluminum is a great choice. Contact Wieland-Wrisco today to receive a free quote for your next aluminum sheet order!

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Company News

Racing Aluminum Now Available!

Here at Wieland-Wrisco, we are always looking for ways to better serve our customers. That’s why we’re excited to announce that we are now stocking Racing aluminum at our Ontario, California facility. This new addition to our inventory will allow us to serve our west coast customers more efficiently and effectively for your racing needs!

What is “Racing” Aluminum?

Racing aluminum is a specially formulated aluminum alloy that is designed for use in racing applications. It is heat-treated to increase its strength and durability, and it has a higher carbon content than traditional aluminum alloys. This makes racing aluminum the perfect choice for applications where strength and durability at high speeds are paramount.

Why Wieland-Wrisco?

When it comes to racing aluminum, there is no one more qualified than Wieland-Wrisco to provide you with the material you need. We have over 100 years of experience working with aluminum, and our team of experts are passionate about helping our customers find the right solution for their needs. We carry a wide array of racing Aluminum sheeting, so you can be sure to find exactly what you’re looking for on your next project.

If you’re in need of racing aluminum on the west coast, look no further than Wieland-Wrisco! Our team of experts are passionate about helping our customers find the right solution for their needs, and we carry a wide array of racing aluminum products. Contact us today at the button below to receive a free quote on racing aluminum for your next project.

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Blog, Metal Supplier

What Is Anodized Aluminum?

All About Anodized Aluminum

When it comes to metalwork, there are a variety of finishes and coatings that can be applied to aluminum in order to achieve a desired look or functionality. One key option available is the highly reliable, highly durable anodized aluminum. Offering tremendous benefits to your project, anodized aluminum can and will be the difference maker for your next build. But what exactly is anodized aluminum, how is it created, and what does it offer?

What is Anodized Aluminum?

Anodized aluminum is aluminum that has been subjected to an electrolytic process in order to increase its thickness. This process causes a thin layer of aluminum oxide to form on the surface of the metal, which acts as a barrier against corrosion. Anodized aluminum is often used for architectural applications such as window frames, curtain walls, and handrails, industrial purposes such as machine parts and conveyor belts, and exterior applications such as wall cladding and roofing.

How is Anodized Aluminum Made?

In order to anodize aluminum, the metal must first be cleaned and placed in an electrolyte solution. A direct current is then passed through the solution, causing the oxidation reaction on the surface of the aluminum. The thickness of the anodized layer can be controlled by varying the current density, duration of the process, and type of electrolyte used. This creates a thick oxidized layer that offers significantly more durability than the base aluminum material.

Key Benefits of Anodized Aluminum

There are several key benefits that come with using anodized aluminum:
– Increased durability: The anodizing process creates a harder surface on the aluminum that is more resistant to wear and tear.
– Improved aesthetic: Anodized aluminum can be dyed in a wide range of colors, giving it a unique appearance that can be customized to suit your needs.
– Enhanced corrosion resistance: As we mentioned earlier, the formation of the anodized oxide layer provides increased protection against corrosion.
– Greater sustainability: Anodizing is an environmentally friendly process that does not use any harmful chemicals or produce any toxic waste products, ensuring aluminum’s continued sustainability.

As you can see, there are many reasons why you might want to consider using anodized aluminum for your next project. If you’re looking for a durable, sustainable material with a unique aesthetic, anodized aluminum from Wieland-Wrisco is definitely worth considering. Have any questions about our anodized aluminum products? Feel free to reach out to us at the button below and we’ll be happy to help!

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4 Facts About Architectural Copper’s Sustainability

Architectural copper provides your project with a level of style and elegance not found with any other metal building material on the market. Not only is architectural copper stunning, but it also offers architects and builders a very sustainable material that is far less demanding on the environment. Architectural copper is such a sustainable building material because:

A Third of The Global Supply Of Copper Is Recycled

Since it was first used by humans, copper has been a highly used material throughout the world due to its incredible capabilities as a building material. Its ability to be 100% recycled ensures it can be used for decades on end throughout various applications as needed. In fact, ⅓ of the entire global circulation of copper is recycled copper, or nearly 8,000,000 tons! It’s estimated that 80% of all copper ever utilized by humans in the last 10,000 years is still in circulation today. As demand continues to grow for architectural copper, you can expect to see more recycled copper enter circulation, while still retaining all of its impressive capabilities.

It’s A Incredibly Lightweight Material

Architectural copper is a very lightweight material, which helps tremendously with transportation. As you’re able to transport much more copper compared to other materials at a time, you’re able to reduce the amount of fossil fuels burnt during transportation, and thus putting less stress on the environment as a whole.

Tremendous Lifespan

Unlike other building materials, architectural copper has an extended lifespan, allowing it to extend past its viability as a building material long past other common options. Its ability to withstand the environment allows itself to keep its integrity no matter where installed and for what use.

High Energy Efficiency

Architectural copper is highly energy efficient, as it keeps your building cool when used as exterior wall cladding or roofing. This, in turn, allows your building’s HVAC system to run far cooler than it would otherwise, thus using far less energy year in and year out.

With architectural copper installed in your next project, you can rest knowing you’re using a material that not only surpasses its competition, it exceeds expectations. Looking for architectural copper for your next big project? Wieland-Wrisco has you covered. For over 100 years, we’ve been the leading metal supplier across the country, and we’re always eager to help supply your job. Contact us today online and learn more about how Wieland-Wrisco can help!

Blog, Metal Supplier

Why You Need To Use Stainless Steel For Your Next Project

High-quality Stainless steel is one of the best options for your next project. With its various benefits and capabilities, it more than offsets the initial investment. Stainless steel is a material that can and will provide unmatched value throughout its lifespan and during the duration of your project. If you’re considering materials for your next project, you need to make it stainless steel.

First Thing’s First: What Exactly Is Stainless Steel?

Stainless steel is an alloy of iron that has roughly 11% of chromium. The chromium prevents the iron from rusting by producing a very thin oxide layer on the surface. It also makes the steel heat-resistant and corrosion resistant, making it a great option for exterior applications. In addition, high-quality stainless steel comes with various advantages you wouldn’t find with other materials. These include:

Unmatched Durability

Mentioned previously, stainless steel offers tremendous durability when compared against other available materials. It offers remarkable impact resistance, making it perfect for exterior applications where it may be directly exposed to the elements.

In addition, stainless steel’s resistances make it hold up where other materials would fail. One of its key advantages, stainless steel’s ability to withstand rusting through its corrosion resistance makes it perfect for long-term applications. Furthermore, high-quality stainless steel is capable of holding up against high temperatures for prolonged periods of time.

Viable For Various Applications

Stainless steel can be shaped, cut, molded, and welded to match the requirements and specifications of your project. Stainless steel’s flexibility in the fabrication process makes it a great option for those looking to cut down on turnaround times and improve overall project efficiency. Thus, you can turn your attention towards other aspects of your project so you can ensure seamless completion.

Low Maintenance

Stainless steel’s long term value truly outweighs its initial cost. It’s very low maintenance and can last a lifetime, as long as the thin chromium oxide layer is regularly cleaned and monitored, it should sustain itself for decades to come. During the fabrication process, any weld points should be free from discoloration and contamination.

High-Quality Stainless steel is ideal for applications that require hygienic environments as it’s very easy to clean. Watch as foreign substances wash away with ease. Ideal applications include hospitals, clinics, commercial kitchens, and pharmaceutical research labs.

Need High-Quality Stainless Steel? Trust Wieland-Wrisco!

Since 1916, Wieland-Wrisco has been the leading supplier of high-quality products including our stainless steel. If you’re looking for high-quality products you can count on time and time again for your projects, look no further than Wieland-Wrisco. To receive a free quote, contact us today!

Blog, Metal Supplier

How Does Aluminum Make A Difference For The Environment?

The most abundant material available in the Earth’s crust, aluminum has made a name for itself by being one of the most sustainable materials available on the planet. But how does aluminum make such a difference for the environment in its various forms and applications versus other materials? Key factors including its long lifespan, lightweight construction, and recyclability help it stand out from the rest of the building materials available on the market.

Aluminum’s Keys To Sustainability

It’s Longevity

Aluminum has made a name for itself by being a highly durable material, capable of withstanding the elements no matter the application. With a lifespan of over 40 years as a building material, it can be used without fear of failure for literal decades. Other materials require repairs and maintenance after only a few years, where you won’t have to worry about aluminum for quite some time. Once it’s reached the end of its long lifespan, it can be recycled and reused yet again!

It’s Lightweight Construction

One of the major benefits of aluminum is its lightweight construction. No matter in the form of aluminum sheets or cans, aluminum’s construction makes it much cheaper to transport. Weighing 65% less than steel and housing many of the same core aspects that has made steel so popular. You’re able to transport far more aluminum products to a job site than you can with steel or other materials for the same cost, making it a tremendously cost effective product, especially when factoring in the environmental effects these transports have on.

It’s Recyclability

Did you know that nearly 70% of all aluminum ever produced is still in effect today? Aluminum is 100% recyclable and can continuously be reused and recycled unless significantly damaged. This allows for less aluminum to be sourced, and in doing so reduces the need for large machinery to extract it from Earth’s surface. This reduces the sheer amount of greenhouse gasses these processes created. What was once aluminum sheeting used for a skyscraper’s facade could be recycled into car parts or even the cans we use to drink soda from.

Why Should I Switch To Aluminum For My Project?

Aluminum is making a name for itself as one of, if not the most, sustainable building material on the planet. Aluminum’s low weight means you can not only do much more with less, but that it weighs substantially less while still offering the same level of strength and durability as materials such as steel. Additionally, since 2005 the U.S. aluminum industry has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 59%.

If you’re interested in utilizing aluminum for your next project, simply contact Wieland-Wrisco. As the leading manufacturer and supplier of aluminum sheeting and aluminum coil, we’re able to supply your next project with high quality aluminum materials. Simply contact us today online and we’ll be more than happy to assist!

Blog, Metal Supplier, Product News

Does Copper Rust?

Whether you’re an architect, builder, or contractor, you’ve likely looked into architectural copper for your next project. It’s a great material that offers a tremendous wealth of benefits, but there’s one outlier we find everyone asks first: “does copper rust?”. A serious concern for any diligent constructor, it’s important to know whether a core material is going to withstand the test of time, or wither away, as well as what it will look like in a few years time. 

First, What Exactly Is Rust?

Before we can even answer the question of whether or not architectural copper rusts, it’s important to first understand what rust is. Rusting is what occurs when iron or other metal alloys are exposed to oxygen, whether it be from air or by exposure to water. Rust produces an unsightly yellow, red, or brown when iron oxidizes. 

With that said, not all metal oxidation creates rust, as rust is unique to iron and iron alloys only. Other metals undergo the same oxidation process, but it leads to corrosion, rather than rust. Thus, copper does not rust!

So Then What Is Corrosion?

Rust is simply a form of corrosion that’s unique to iron and iron alloys. So then what does it look like on architectural copper? As copper oxidizes, rather than receiving the reddish brown hues, architectural copper will become a stunning blue-green color known as patina following oxidation. 

What Can Accelerate Copper Corrosion?

Copper and copper alloys will naturally corrode over time when exposed to the atmosphere, however some key elements that may accelerate copper corrosion include:

  • Heat
  • Seawater & Rain
  • Acidic Compounds

Copper will first tarnish into a darker color before settling on the patina color. 

Is Corrosion Bad For Architectural Copper?

Whereas rust will significantly impact iron and iron alloys’ utility, copper oxidizing actually has some unique benefits. Not only does it enjoy the aesthetic benefits of the patina, but oxidized copper will actually protect it from further exposure to oxygen, stopping corrosion from occurring further. 

Interested in learning more about architectural copper for your next project? No worries! Contact Wieland-Wrisco today to discover how we can assist in supplying your next project.

Blog, Metal Supplier

What Are The Benefits of Stainless Steel?

Used throughout a multitude of applications, stainless steel has been a popular choice for builders across the country—and for good reason! Stainless steel offers builders a wealth of benefits all combining together to create not only allows for stunning design applications, but one that exceeds functionality expectations. Stainless steel remains an incredibly versatile building material while staying inexpensive compared to other options. If you’ve been considering using stainless steel for your next project, consider the following benefits!

Cleanliness

Stainless steel is actually incredibly easy to clean and sanitize, allowing you to easily wash away any dirt, grime, and bacteria effortlessly when cleaned down. Its low maintenance requirements make it an ideal choice for application in areas such as hospitals and clinics that require easy to clean surfaces.

Corrosion Resistance

One of its most well-known benefits, stainless steel has a very high resistance to corrosion. Originally advertised as a “rustless steel”, the inclusion of chromium made it highly resistant to corroding in any environment. Only under certain conditions (exposure to cleaners, chloride, high humidity, high salinity environments, and/or mechanical abrasions) will stainless steel show signs of rusting, however in most other cases the chromium oxide layer protects the steel and is able to repair itself fast enough to avoid the metal rusting.

Aesthetically Pleasing

One of the key reasons people elect for stainless steel on their projects is that it’s simply beautiful! Whether used as accent notes throughout a home, or as wall cladding for an office building’s exterior, stainless steel is simply great to look at. If you’re looking for a building material that’s guaranteed to turn heads, look no further than stainless steel.

Durability

Stainless steel is remarkably tough, thanks to its high impact resistance due to low brittleness in both high and low temperatures. This means that stainless steel will keep its shape no matter the environment it’s dropped in. In addition, at its melting point stainless steel can be molded, welded, and fabricated to fit your specifications as needed.

Sustainability

Stainless steel is actually a sustainable building material, typically constructed from 70% scrap metal. From there, stainless steel is 100% recyclable, ready to be used yet again for another project. Stainless steel will continue its cycle of usability long after it’s removed from your project.

Stainless steel is an unbelievable building material that only positively impacts your project, and Wieland-Wrisco is here to supply you with the highest quality stainless steel! We offer 24GA & 26GA Stainless Steel Sheet & Coil in both 2B & 2D finishes. For other gauges and finishes, contact us today online so we can properly assist you!

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Architectural Copper Applications

Over the last few years, we’ve seen a substantial increase in the use of copper being used for architectural applications across the country. A material that dates back hundreds of years, it’s quickly becoming very popular yet again. Copper has always been an integral part of architecture, from the ancient Egyptian temple doors to European medieval designs. Most notably in American culture is that which was built using 80 tons worth or copper sheet-the Statue Of Liberty! This metal proved so easily manipulable by humans through pounding and cutting with hammers producing thicknesses equivalent two US pennies placed together at their finest point.

We still rely on copper for its ability to be easily stretched, molded and shaped. This is why it’s used in a wide variety of applications today such as wiring or pipes that need an aesthetically pleasing finish with low maintenance characteristics – something not all metals can provide! Today, we find architectural copper being used in a variety of applications, including:

Architectural Applications:

Roofing

When it comes to roofing, the durability of copper is unparalleled. Not only does this metal withstand fire, hail and mildew with ease but can also last up to 50 years or more in regular care! Copper roofs are an efficient way to keep your home cool and light. They also have many other benefits, such as being incredibly lightweight in comparison with heavier metals such as lead and steel that can significantly weigh buildings down or require expensive support structures.

Wall Cladding

Copper wall cladding is not only beautiful, but it also offers an excellent solution for architects in need of protection from the elements. It can be used on exterior surfaces such as building exteriors or roofs with varying levels requirements including those that require more durability than other materials might provide without sacrificing aesthetics.

Fueling increased interest among designers has been this new availability—copper sheets offer stylish yet functional solutions tailored specifically to each project’s specific needs! Architectural copper is work-ready, capable of being shaped to fit your specifications immediately.

Interior Accents

Copper has been used to create a luxurious feeling in public spaces like hotels and restaurants. The rich tones of this building material can be found aesthetically enhancing interior design elements such as walls, ceiling fixtures, furniture, and hardware with its warmth, tranquility, and calmness. In addition, copper has natural, intrinsic antimicrobial properties against a variety of disease, viruses, and bacteria. This makes it ideal for things such as handrails where multiple hands have to touch it every single day.

Architectural copper is surely to grow in popularity as the years go on—make sure you’re ahead of the trend with Wieland-Wrisco! Wieland-Wrisco proudly offers its architectural copper products throughout the United States. You can learn more about our copper roofing sheet, copper roofing coil, and other architectural copper products today, simply contact us today!