U of Louisiana
Metl-Span Panels are Smart Choice For University Retrofit
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette selected Metl-Span panels for a major retrofit of Madison Hall, the University’s School of Engineering building.
More than 26,000 square feet of Metl-Span’s CF-42 Striated polyurethane foam insulated wall panels were utilized in completely re-skinning the exterior of the building. Metl-Span’s Classic Zinc Metallic finish was selected to complement remaining brick and masonry portions.
The CF Striated panel offers exceptional value while delivering the aesthetics of a flat wall panel. According to Jim Ziler of Architects’ Design Studio/Ziler Architects, Lafayette, “We were facing serious budget limitations. The Metl-Span panel was simply more cost effective and offered greater value than other products we considered.”
The existing steel frame window/wall system was cut off of the building in stages. The content of each classroom was covered in plastic while new steel framing was attached. Installation of the Metl-Span panels was completed within just a few days as each portion of wall was exposed.
The subcontractor for the project was Glass Systems, Inc., Port Barre, Louisiana. Keven Grimmett of Glass Systems reports “most of the installation was done during the school year while classes were in session. There were some challenges in working in a high traffic environment—particularly with lots of engineering students looking over our shoulders!”
Installation “went great” according to Grimmett. “Metl-Span was extremely conscientious in maintaining material delivery schedules in order to meet our deadlines.”
Installation of the insulated panels also cured a serious HVAC issue that the aging building was experiencing. Leaks in the existing curtainwall system made it difficult to keep the building comfortable and maintain acceptable humidity levels. The 2” Metl-Span panels cured the problem immediately and added an R-16 insulation value.
The general contractor on the job was M.D. Descant, Bunkie, Louisiana.
The project was completed in September, 2002, much to everyone’s satisfaction. Architect Jim Ziler summarized, “We greatly improved the overall quality of the interior environment as well as the exterior appearance.”
Metl-Span pioneered the development of insulated metal panels and continues to make significant contributions to design innovations and technology that have become industry standards. For more information on the complete line of Metl-Span products, call 877-585-9969 or visit www.metlspan.com.