What a fantastic time we had at IRE 2025! From connecting with industry professionals to enjoying the local culture and cuisine, it was an event we won’t soon forget. Here’s a look at the highlights from our unforgettable experience:
San Antonio: A Perfect Host City
San Antonio indeed showed us a good time. Cowboy hats and boots were everywhere, and country music filled the air. The charm of the historic city was evident at every turn, making it a memorable place to host such a massive industry event.
Delicious Dining on the River Walk
The food scene was incredible. We enjoyed dining at top-notch spots, with Domingo and Ostra standing out. Both restaurants are nestled along the iconic River Walk, offering delicious meals and a beautiful view. They are a must-visit when in town!
Networking with Industry Leaders
One of the best parts of the event was connecting with industry professionals. We were fortunate to meet up with folks from Metalforming and Drexel Metals and roofing professionals from Texas, the Midwest, and Canada. The range of expertise and knowledge shared made for insightful conversations and valuable connections.
A Global Presence
It wasn’t just local professionals who attended–international metal suppliers were also in the crowd, adding a global perspective to the event. The diversity of attendees helped make IRE 2025 feel genuinely international.
Supplied with Tacos, Tunes, and Free Merch
Two major suppliers pulled out all the stops to show their customers a good time. SRS entertained with tacos, live music, and free merch. It was a fun, relaxed atmosphere where we could kick back and enjoy the music while meeting new people. And who doesn’t love free swag? ABC joined right in on the activities as the premier host of the IRE welcome party, which featured a live band and endless refreshments. The tasty apps and good vibes set the tone for the days ahead for both exhibitors and attendees.
All in all, IRE 2025 was a fantastic experience. San Antonio made everything unforgettable, from the networking to the food and lively atmosphere. We’re already looking forward to the next one!
Fabricating a metal roof is an essential skill in the construction industry. It offers durability, energy efficiency, and a sleek look for various building types. At Helix Metalforming, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality metalforming solutions that cater to diverse roofing needs. Whether you have extensive experience in the field or are an enthusiastic DIYer, this guide will walk you through fabricating a metal roof.
Gathering all necessary materials and tools beforehand is essential to fabricate a metal roof effectively. You’ll need metal roofing sheets (aluminum, steel, or copper), a measuring tape for accurate dimensions, and metal snips or shears to safely cut the sheets to size. Cut them to the appropriate size, ensuring you wear safety gloves and goggles for your protection while cutting. A power drill and screws will be used to secure the panels, along with roofing felt or underlayment and metal roofing sealant to enhance durability and weather resistance.
The process begins with measuring and cutting the metal sheets precisely. Accurate measurements, including allowances for overhangs, are crucial to ensure a proper fit. Mark the measurements on the sheets and use metal snips or shears to cut, ensuring safety precautions are followed. Next, prepare the roof surface by ensuring it’s clean and dry. Install roofing felt or underlayment as a moisture barrier to protect the metal roofing from condensation, extending its lifespan.
Proceed by installing the metal panels starting from the bottom edge of the roof and aligning the first panel with the eaves. Secure each panel in place using screws, adhering to manufacturer-recommended spacing. Overlap subsequent panels to ensure a tight seal against water ingress, employing a power drill for efficient installation. Once all panels are securely installed, focus on securing edges and seams. To prevent water infiltration, apply metal roofing sealant to seal any gaps or overlaps between panels, especially around chimneys, vents, and skylights.
Lastly, ridge caps should be installed along the roof’s peak to cover panel seams effectively. Flashing should be integrated around any roof penetrations to ensure a waterproof seal. Proper ridge caps and flashing installation enhance the roof’s durability by preventing leaks and maintaining structural integrity over time.
Fabricating a metal roof requires careful planning, precise measurements, and attention to detail. By following these steps, you can achieve a durable and aesthetically pleasing metal roof that stands the test of time. Helix Metalforming offers high-quality metalforming products and expert advice to help you succeed in roofing projects. Contact us today to discover more about our services and how we can support you in your metal roof fabrication needs.
Bending metal roofing panels is a crucial skill in the construction industry, especially for projects involving historical architecture, homes, and various buildings. Whether aiming for a seamless fit, enhanced durability, or aesthetic appeal, mastering this process ensures your roofing projects stand the test of time. Here’s a comprehensive guide on effectively bending metal roofing panels for your construction needs, brought to you by Helix Metalforming.
You’ll need to gather essential materials and tools to bend metal roofing panels effectively. These include metal roofing panels typically made from materials such as aluminum, steel, or copper and bending tools like a manual bending brake for smaller projects or a hydraulic bending machine for larger panels or more complex bends. It’s crucial to have safety equipment like gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing to ensure your safety while bending. Tools like a tape measure, a protractor for accurate measurements, and marking tools such as chalk or markers for marking bend lines on the panels are also necessary.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to bending metal roofing panels:
Prepare the Panel: Begin by measuring and marking the panel. Use a tape measure and protractor to determine where the bend is needed, then draw a clear, straight line across the panel using chalk or a marker.
Set Up the Bending Brake: Based on your measurements, adjust the bending brake to the correct angle and size. Insert the metal panel into the brake, ensuring the marked bend line aligns with the brake’s clamping bar.
Secure the Panel: Use the clamps on the bending brake to secure the panel in place. Double-check the alignment of the bend line with the clamping bar to ensure an even and precise bend.
Bend the Panel: Slowly and steadily lift the handles of the bending brake, applying even pressure to bend the panel. Use a protractor to check the angle of the bend and make adjustments as necessary to achieve the desired specifications.
Final Adjustments: Carefully release the clamps and remove the panel from the bending brake. Inspect the bend for imperfections, using hand tools or re-clamping and re-bend if adjustments are needed to achieve perfection.
For successful bending of metal roofing panels, consider the following tips: practice on scrap pieces before working on actual roofing panels to familiarize yourself with the process, maintain uniform pressure during bending to avoid kinks or uneven bends, invest in high-quality tools like bending brakes for accurate results, and choose moderate temperatures for bending to prevent metal from becoming brittle and potentially cracking.
Additional care is necessary in historical architecture projects due to the authenticity and delicacy of the structures involved. To preserve historical accuracy, ensure bends match the original designs, handle panels delicately to avoid damage to older structures, and be aware that specialty metals like copper may require specific handling techniques due to their unique properties. Mastering the art of bending metal roofing panels enhances the longevity and functionality of roofing systems. It contributes significantly to the aesthetic and structural integrity of any construction project, whether modern or historical.
Bending metal roofing panels is a fundamental skill in construction. It offers the flexibility to create custom fits and enhance the durability and aesthetics of roofing systems. By following these steps and tips from Helix Metalforming, you can achieve precise, professional results in your construction projects, whether modern or historical. Mastering this process ensures your roofing projects not only look great but also withstand the test of time.
The AIA24 Conference was a unique and unforgettable experience! From the moment we arrived, we were immersed in a world of insightful interactions, innovative showcases, and invaluable networking opportunities. Here are some of the unique highlights from our time at the event:
Visitors can order product staples directly at our Helix booth using a convenient QR code. By scanning the code, attendees could request samples to be sent straight to their doorstep. This feature was a big hit, allowing architects and designers to experience our products firsthand with minimal hassle.
The expo center was a hive of activity, with each booth offering a unique perspective on the future of architecture and the industry. We were inspired by the diverse range of solutions on display, from cutting-edge building materials to the latest crown molding designs, and left with a renewed sense of excitement for the future.
Undoubtedly, one of the most valuable aspects of the conference was the chance to connect and network with fellow professionals in the industry. The happy hour event, in particular, provided a relaxed atmosphere to connect with architects, designers, and other vendors. It was a great chance to share insights, discuss trends, and build valuable relationships, furthering our commitment to collaboration and innovation.
Our time at the AIA24 Conference was enriching and a testament to our commitment to the industry. We relished meeting many talented and knowledgeable individuals, exploring the vendor exhibits, and engaging in meaningful conversations. The event was filled with noticeable energy and enthusiasm, and we left feeling inspired and excited about the future of architecture and design, a future we are dedicated to shaping.
We look forward to staying connected with the fantastic people we met and continuing to innovate and contribute to this unique industry. We are grateful to everyone who stopped by our booth and helped make this event unforgettable! Those who couldn’t attend or didn’t get a chance to visit our booth can still order samples by visiting this link. Look at the event pictures below!
Helix is thrilled to announce our participation in the International Roofing Expo (IRE) 2025, held from February 19thto 21st in San Antonio, Texas. As North America’s largest roofing and exterior event, IRE is a perfect opportunity for industry professionals to converge, learn, and network. With a rich history of over 65 years, the International Roofing Expo has established itself as the premier annual gathering for the roofing industry. This expo serves as a hub for the latest products and equipment, hands-on education, and invaluable networking opportunities. Whether you are a seasoned contractor or new to the industry, IRE offers the resources and connections necessary to elevate your business to new heights.
We are thrilled to bring our unique brand and innovative products to this prestigious event. At IRE 2025, we look forward to connecting with the industry’s key decision-makers. Our team is eager to showcase how our cutting-edge solutions can help roofing contractors expand their networks, enhance their skills, and ensure the longevity of their businesses. IRE showcases a vast array of roofing and exterior products from leading suppliers. Attendees can explore the latest innovations, compare products, and gain insights crucial for market competitiveness.
The expo features the most advanced equipment available, with live demonstrations and expert advice on incorporating these tools into your business for increased efficiency and effectiveness. One of the highlights of IRE is its comprehensive educational program. Participants can engage in hands-on workshops, attend informative seminars, and learn from industry leaders. This is an excellent opportunity to improve your skills and learn about the latest trends and best practices.
IRE is the industry’s largest networking platform, bringing together professionals from all corners of the roofing and exteriors sector. It’s the perfect place to build relationships, share experiences, and form partnerships to drive your business forward.
Join us at IRE 2025 to experience the largest gathering of roofing and exterior suppliers, products, equipment, hands-on demonstrations, and more. This is your exclusive opportunity to discover new opportunities, gain a competitive edge, and be part of an event that shapes the future of the industry. We look forward to seeing you in San Antonio!
Get ready to experience the pinnacle of metal construction and design innovation at METALCON 2024, from October 30 to November 1, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia. This year, Helix, a leader in aluminum, zinc, and copper exterior roofing and wall panels, trims, gutters, and crown molding, is set to make a significant impact.
For those unfamiliar, METALCON is not just any event; it’s the most significant international event exclusively dedicated to the metal construction and design industry. Since its inception in 1991, this annual tradeshow and conference has been the ultimate gathering place for professionals seeking the latest metal building technology, solutions, and expertise. With over three decades of history, METALCON has established itself as the premier event for anyone involved in metal construction, making participation a privilege.
Helix will showcase its extensive range of high-quality products at this year’s event. Designed with unique features to meet the demands of contemporary construction and design projects, Helix’s aluminum, zinc, and copper panels, trims, gutters, and crown molding are perfect for elevating any building project.
You will have the chance to interact with Helix representatives throughout the event. Our team will be on hand to provide detailed product information and engage in interactive sessions. These sessions are designed to offer a deeper understanding of our products and their applications, making them ideal for decision-makers looking to place orders and establish new business relationships. You won’t just be a passive listener but an active participant in these sessions.
In addition to our booth, Helix is hosting two must-attend seminars at METALCON. These seminars, overcoming Obstacles: Tackling the Unique Challenges of Specialty Metal Contractors and Building a Sustainable Future: Strategies for Metal Construction, Sustainability, and Resilience, provide not only information but also valuable insights that can shape your business strategies.
METALCON is an unparalleled platform for connecting with a network of qualified buyers and industry leaders. By attending, you’ll gain exclusive insights and maintain a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving metal construction industry. Helix is eager to demonstrate how our products can enhance and elevate your building projects through the superior application of metal.
Seize this fantastic chance to witness the cutting-edge products and services driving the future of metal construction and design. Join Helix from October 30 to November 1 at METALCON 2024 in the Georgia World Congress Center. Discover how Helix can help transform your business and stay ahead. See you in Atlanta!
Interested in registering? We’ll see you there at METALCON 2024.
When it comes to construction, especially for exterior applications, historical architecture, homes, and buildings, choosing a metal that holds its value over time is crucial. This not only ensures the longevity and durability of the structure but also provides economic benefits. But what metal holds its value the best in the construction industry? Let’s discuss the top contenders: stainless steel, copper, aluminum, zinc, and titanium. Stainless steel is famed for its resistance to rust and corrosion, making it perfect for exterior applications. This property ensures that structures remain intact and aesthetically pleasing for many years. It offers excellent strength, providing structural integrity and long-term performance.
Buildings constructed with stainless steel components can withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy loads without compromising safety or stability. Stainless steel’s sleek and modern appearance adds value to any building, enhancing its visual appeal and market value. Its reflective surface and smooth finish make it a favorite in contemporary architectural designs. Stainless steel is highly adaptable and can be used in various applications, including structural components, roofing and cladding, and decorative elements and fixtures. Stainless steel’s durability and low maintenance requirements make it a valuable material. Its resistance to corrosion means it retains its appearance and structural properties over time, contributing to higher resale values for buildings.
Copper can last over a century, developing a desirable patina that adds character and uniqueness. This natural aging process enhances its visual appeal, making it a timeless choice for historical and modern buildings. Copper is 100% recyclable without losing its properties, making it an environmentally friendly option. Its ability to be reused indefinitely without degradation in quality supports sustainable building practices. Copper’s excellent thermal conductivity helps in energy efficiency, reducing heating and cooling costs. This can result in substantial energy savings expenses over the building’s lifespan. Copper is commonly used in roofing, gutters, downspouts, and decorative facades. It is highly valued in both historical and modern construction. Its aesthetic transformation over time and long lifespan ensure that structures using copper retain or even increase their value.
Aluminum provides a high strength-to-weight ratio, making it ideal for various construction applications without adding significant weight to the structure. This property is particularly beneficial for large-scale projects where weight reduction is critical. Aluminum naturally resists rust and corrosion, especially when treated with finishes. This ensures that aluminum components remain intact and functional, even in harsh environmental conditions. Aluminum is easy to mold and fabricate into various shapes and designs, offering flexibility in construction. Architects and builders can efficiently utilize this flexibility to design innovative and complex designs. Due to its versatility, aluminum is widely used in construction, making it ideal for cladding and facades, window and door frames, and roofing. Aluminum’s resistance to corrosion and lightweight nature contribute to its value retention. It requires minimal maintenance and can be recycled, adding to its long-term economic value.
Zinc can self-repair scratches and minor damages over time, maintaining its appearance and protective qualities. This unique property ensures that zinc components remain visually appealing and structurally sound. Zinc roofs and facades can last up to 80-100 years with minimal maintenance, making zinc a cost-effective choice for long-term construction projects. Zinc is a sustainable material with a low environmental footprint, which is increasingly valued in the green building movement. Its ability to be recycled and its minimal ecological footprint make it the preferred choice for eco-conscious builders. Zinc is used in various applications, including roofing, cladding, and rainwater systems. Zinc’s longevity, minimal maintenance needs, and sustainable properties make it a valuable investment for any building. Its self-healing nature ensures it remains in good condition, preserving the building’s value over time.
Titanium is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio, making it suitable for demanding structural applications. Its exceptional strength ensures that buildings remain safe and stable under various conditions. Titanium exhibits strong corrosion resistance, even in challenging environmental conditions, ensuring long-term durability. Its resilience makes it ideal for structures exposed to saltwater or industrial pollutants. Titanium offers a modern and sleek appearance, enhancing the visual appeal of buildings. Its unique look can add a futuristic touch to architectural designs. Despite its higher cost, titanium’s exceptional durability and low maintenance requirements make it a premium choice that holds its value well. Its unique properties ensure that buildings using titanium remain in excellent condition for decades.
Choosing a metal that holds its value is essential for ensuring construction projects’ longevity and economic benefits. Stainless steel, copper, aluminum, zinc, and titanium offer unique advantages that contribute to their value retention over time. By selecting the appropriate metal for your specific application, you can enhance the durability, aesthetic appeal, and overall value of your building. Helix Metalforming is here to help you make the best choice for your next construction project.
