Metal buildings used to have some basic options – standing seam or R-type roof panels, and R-panels for the walls in a galvanized finish.  Take it or leave it.

Star Buildings then came out with a DuraRib panel and a Starmark panel, both for use on the walls. The Starmark panel was a “hidden-fastener” panel, meaning the vertical screws were hidden within shadow-lines on the panels.  If you looked directly at the panel you would see the recessed fasteners, but at a slight angle and they would seemingly disappear.

In 2012, Star began phasing out the DuraRib and Starmark panels (as well as their standing seam Starshield line), and in 2013 the series were no longer offered on new building sales.

 

The PBR panel replaced the DuraRib panel.  The 36″ wide panel with 1-1/4″ deep ribs at 12″ on center allow for an even-shadowed appearance, and minimize “oil-canning” upon installation.  These panels make great economical roof or wall panels, and are available in 26, 24, or 22 ga thicknesses, and a variety of colours. The PBR panel can be used with up to 6″ insulation.

 

The PBA wall panel replaced the Starmark wall panel.  The panel offers a slightly more pleasing aesthetic to the building finish, using arched sections with deep ribs to provide semi-concealed fasteners.  The panel covers 3′ of wall space and is available in 26 and 24 gauge material, with silicon (Sig-200) or Kynar (Sig-300) based paint finishes.  The PBA panel is limited to 4″ of wall insulation.

The PBA panel then received an updated modern profile, aptly names the AVP panel. The AVP panel adds a V-shape to the area between the major ribs and increases the depth of the panel.  Pencil ribs are used instead of striations, adding rigidity to the panel.  The outside rib was modified with no return leg, which reduces the likelhood of deformations at the fastener.

The decision to use an AVP, PBA or PBR wall panel rests on the owner and their end-use.  If the building is a back-of-house building, perhaps save the few extra dollars and go with the PBR panel.  If it’s representing your company or facility and you want a nicer overall finish, we recommend the PBA and AVP panel.

Many other manufacturers have similar profiles such as the Butler Shadowall and Butlerib wall; the Nucor Classic Wall and Accent Wall; and the Varco Pruden Panel Rib and Vee Rib systems.

The PBR and AVP panel can also be used as an interior or canopy liner or as a soffit panel.

These aren’t (by far) the only wall options either.  TMC & Star Buildings offer insulated metal panels, masonry and concrete wall systems, insulated concrete form (ICF) walls and foundations, steel stud framed walls, and more.  The possibilities are limited only by you and your architects imagination!