How to Install Insulated Steel Panels

Insulated steel panels are durable, long-lasting and easy to maintain. Some types of insulated steel panels can be used on both roofing and walls, eliminating the need to make separate purchases.For the purpose of this article, it will be assumed that the wood or steel framing to which the insulated steel panels will be installed has already been built, with all openings for window, door, electrical and plumbing installation pre-cut. Steps will begin with installing the panels themselves.

Things You'll Need

• Steel panels, cut and numbered to structural specifications
• Electric or cordless screwdriver and metal screws
• Caulking OR foam insulation

Instructions

How to Install Insulated Steel Panels

1. Install any custom-fitting pieces first. For example, a peaked roof will have a triangular-shaped steel panel that will need to be installed first.

2. Fit custom-fit panels into their appropriate location. Using the screwdriver and metal screws, attach the panel at the top and bottom to the stud(s) securely enough so that it will remain in place.

3. Beginning at any corner, fit one steel panel onto the wall stud. Secure the panel at the top and bottom of the stud, then secure the left side of the panel.

4. Continue fitting appropriately-numbered steel panels, attaching the left side of each additional panel to the right side of the previous panel.

5. As you work toward the already-installed custom-fit panels, simply attach the right-hand side of the panel you are working with to the left-hand side of the custom-fit panel.

6. Continue in this same fashion until all panels have been installed.

7. Either caulk OR spray foam insulation in areas where the panels meet door, window, electrical and plumbing openings, or wherever you see cracks or feel is necessary. Even insulated steel panels could use a little extra help.

Tips & Warnings

• You may want to install all panels that are the same height and width, then move on to those panels that have been cut to fit specific areas, such as those that meet and join with custom-fit panels.

• Don’t be sparing with the metal screws. Use as many as you think are necessary to ensure that the panels are securely attached to the frame, each other and anywhere else they will be attached.

• Remember that you are basically working with three layers of material, since the insulation is between the two layers of steel that form the panel. Make sure the metal screws you use are long enough and strong enough to penetrate all of the insulated steel panel layers AND the stud to which they will be attached.

• Make sure the metal screws are drilled into the studs, and not just the panels themselves. They will hold; however, it may be possible to see light through the panels. This could compromise the insulation that was already installed in the panels themselves.

• Use caution when attaching panels at the higher parts of the structure. Make sure you are standing on a regulation stepladder and that the ladder is on firm ground. Do not overextend your reach, and above all, DO NOT STAND ON THE VERY TOP STEP OF THE LADDER.