Profile / Shape
We roll form our Uni-Rib steel panels in our Illinois plant. The tried-and-true design of the panel is exclusive to Lester Buildings. A.-XX__'__XX-.A,A,A"RibsA.-XX__'__XX-.A,A,A" (or bends) are added to increase panel strength. The combination of the number of ribs, rib height, and bend sharpness determines the strength.
Thickness
Measured in gauge (ga) units; the smaller the gauge, the thicker the panel. Lester Buildings offers 29-gauge and 26-gauge steel as standard products.
Tensile Yield Strength
Measured in pounds-force per square inch (psi); the higher the number, the stronger the panel -- and less prone to dents and fastener tears. Lester uses Grade E steel coil, which features minimum 80,000 psi tensile yield strength.
Protective Coatings
Measured in number of ounces of zinc per square foot; the higher the number, the less corrosion. The Uni-Rib steel panel uses a galvanization process that adds a layer of corrosion protection to both sides of the panel. It also provides good paint adhesion and scratch resistance. G60 galvanizing is standard for most applications. G90 galvanizing is used in environments with high moisture and caustic gasses, such as livestock buildings.
Paint Systems
Unlike other companies, Lester offers two choices of paint systems. Each comes with an outstanding warranty and provides extra protection against harsh environmental elements such as ultra-violet rays, acidic rain, humidity and normal handling/wear and tear.
A majority of the colors meet Energy Star's "Cool Roof" reflectivity standards.
Siliconized Polyester, sold under Valspar's WeatherX brand, is standard on all exterior panels and provides an excellent value.
Available in 18 colors.
Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF), sold under Valspar's Fluropon brand, is a premium option for increased fade protection. (The well-known Kynar paint brand is also made by Valspar and has the equivalent properties to Fluropon.)
Available in 20 colors.