Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.
Curved metal roofing enabled Owens Community College to give its expanded Findlay, Ohio, campus a defining arched form while covering a large academic building. The 2015 project used 15,500 square feet of Colonial Red MBCI Curved BattenLok panels on a 119,407-square-foot facility. The panels were specified as 22 gauge for this project, with a 2-inch standing seam field-seamed during installation. MBCI’s installation manual lists a 20-foot minimum radius, so the roof’s geometry had to be coordinated with the structure, clips, substrate and installation sequence rather than treated as a decorative skin added at the end.
The project is best understood as a documented design case study, not a current price guide or independent performance comparison. Its enrollment and program figures describe conditions reported in 2015, while the product details should still be checked against current manufacturer documentation and project-specific engineering.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsWhat project did the curved metal panels support?
The case study concerns the expansion of Owens Community College’s Findlay-area campus in Ohio. The campus was founded in 1983 and initially served 201 students. As programs, students and staff grew, the college needed a substantially larger facility. Building Design + Construction reported the completed building at 119,407 square feet on a 60-acre site in its April 15, 2015, project article.
The building combined teaching, student-support and operational spaces rather than serving as a single-purpose classroom block. The listed program included:
Popular on Amazon
- Ergonomically Designed: Work in tight areas with a compact design that gets into tough spots
- Both tools are designed to fit into difficult to reach spaces
- Complete a wide range of applications with a high-performance motor that delivers up to 300 UWO, and an impact driver delivering up to 1,400 in-lbs of torque
- Both the DEWALT impact driver and drill driver feature integrated LED work lights with a convenient 20-second delay, ensuring enhanced visibility in dimly lit or challenging work areas
- One-Handed Loading - Keep one hand free with a 1/4 in. hex chuck that accepts 1 in. bit tips
- A library
- 41 advanced technology classrooms
- Student services
- 28 technical and computer laboratories
- A bookstore
- A grant-funded child care center
- Administrative and faculty offices
The same article said Owens offered more than 100 majors and served approximately 13,000 students across its campuses, learning institutes and online courses. Those are historical figures from the 2015 report; they should not be read as the college’s current enrollment or program count.
| Project fact | Reported value | Source and date |
|---|---|---|
| Facility size | 119,407 square feet | Building Design + Construction, 2015 |
| Site | 60 acres | Building Design + Construction, 2015 |
| Roof panel area | 15,500 square feet | Building Design + Construction, 2015 |
| Roof finish | Colonial Red | Building Design + Construction, 2015 |
| Project panel thickness | 22 gauge | Building Design + Construction, 2015 |
Why was a curved roof important to the campus design?
The roof was part of the building’s identity. The case study says the red curved panels accentuated the campus arch and made that arch a focal point. In other words, the curve was not merely a response to drainage or a way to cover an irregular plan; it was a visible architectural gesture intended to signal the building’s entrance and public character.
That approach illustrates a practical advantage of curved standing-seam systems on institutional work. A continuous curved plane can connect walls, roof edges and a major entrance into one recognizable profile. Color then reinforces the geometry: Colonial Red creates a visual band that can be seen from the campus approach, while the standing seams provide a regular vertical rhythm across the curve.
There is an important design trade-off. A curved roof is less forgiving of late changes than a conventional straight slope. The architect, structural engineer, panel supplier and roofing contractor must agree on the radius, panel lengths, support geometry, edge conditions and sequencing before fabrication. If the structure does not match the panel curve, the installer may face fit-up problems that cannot be corrected by simply adjusting a flat sheet.
What roofing system was installed?
Building Design + Construction described Curved BattenLok as a structural roofing panel with a 2-inch-tall standing seam that is field-seamed during installation. The reported Owens project used 15,500 square feet of the panels in Colonial Red, specified at 22 gauge.
Also popular on Amazon
- Valued Carpenter Pencil Set: You will get 2 pcs solid carpenter pencils with 26 piece 2.8 mm refills, 1 replaceable sharpener, 1 plastic storage box.The complete carpenter pencils combination allows you to finish your work faster and more easily
- Deep Hole Marker Pencil: The deep-hole construction pencils adopts 45mm elongated tip design, which is more convenient to mark in the small hole or in other tight areas that other carpenter markers cannot reach
- Carpenter Pencils with Sharpener: The sharpener is screwed into the top of the work pencil, which won't get lost either. Built-in pencil sharpener that keep the lead with pointed and smooth to Improves line of sight in fine work
- Stronger Solid Lead: This work pencil is matched with a 2.8 mm thick lead , which is much thicker and stronger during the drawing process of construction work, it will not break or damage easily
- Marks on Various Surfaces: 3 colors solid construction pencil can marks on various surfaces,such as metal, plastic, wood, paper etc. Ideals for woodworkers, contractors, craftsmen, builders, merchants and masons
MBCI’s Curved BattenLok installation manual provides the technical context behind that specification:
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →- The system has a 16-inch coverage width.
- 24 gauge is listed as the standard material thickness.
- 22 gauge is listed as an optional configuration.
- The minimum radius is listed as 20 feet.
- The seam is formed and finished with field-seaming equipment after the panels are placed.
The distinction between the project specification and the standard product listing matters. The case study identifies 22 gauge for Owens, while the manual identifies 24 gauge as standard and 22 gauge as optional. Gauge, radius, substrate and attachment details therefore need to be confirmed for each project rather than copied from this example.
How does a curved standing-seam roof get coordinated and installed?
Curved panels require the same basic weatherproofing discipline as other standing-seam roofs, but the geometry adds a sequence of checks. MBCI’s manual is the controlling reference for its system; the following workflow explains the decisions a project team must make.
- Set the design radius. The architect and engineer establish the intended curve and confirm that it is at least the product’s permitted minimum. MBCI lists a 20-foot minimum radius for Curved BattenLok, but the exact profile, gauge and project configuration still need confirmation.
- Coordinate the supporting structure. The roof deck, purlins, framing and eave or ridge conditions must follow the panel geometry. The manual instructs installers to check panels against the substructure radius and to confirm project dimensions in the field.
- Confirm panel configuration. Coverage width, gauge, clip type, panel lengths and transitions at walls or openings are scheduled before fabrication. The Owens article’s 22-gauge figure is a project fact, not a universal requirement.
- Prepare delivery and handling. Long metal panels can be damaged by improper lifting, dragging or stacking. The manufacturer’s handling instructions should govern site storage and movement, with protection maintained until installation.
- Place panels and clips. Panels are positioned over the prepared substrate and secured with the specified clips and accessories. Alignment is checked continuously because a small deviation can become visible across a long curved run.
- Field-curve and seam the panels. The panel is formed to the required curve and the standing seam is closed with the manufacturer-approved seaming process. MBCI says field-seaming kits are available through its representatives; specialist equipment and trained labor are required.
- Inspect before closeout. The team checks seam continuity, fasteners, laps, penetrations, edge details, drainage paths and the match between the installed radius and the structural drawings. Any discrepancy should be resolved under the project’s engineering and manufacturer-support procedures.
This sequence is not a substitute for stamped drawings or the current installation manual. Curved metal roofing is a coordinated building system, not a field improvisation.
What does “structural roofing panel” mean here?
A structural panel is designed to span between specified supports as part of the roof assembly, subject to the manufacturer’s load tables and the project engineer’s calculations. That is different from a non-structural curved panel, which may require a continuous deck or other support beneath it. MBCI’s current curved roof systems information describes both structural and non-structural options.
Also popular on Amazon
- 【Great Compatibility】This Katerk 1/4 inch hex shank bit holder is specifically designed for 1/4 inch hex shank drill bits. It's compatible with most 1/4 fast hex handles, hex sockets, various electric screwdrivers, and handheld screwdrivers. The bit holder makes it a valuable addition for any handyman.
- 【Secure and Safe】Built with a secure backup nut design, each drill bit holder securely locks onto your bits, ensuring they stay firmly in place. Additionally, our bit holder incorporates a high-quality steel ball rolling design that holds up to several kilograms of weight, ensuring your various drill bits don't fall off.
- 【Easy One-Handed Operation】The bit holder for impact driver allows you to change bits single-handedly, simplifying your workflow. Its multi-color design further allows for quick identification of the drill bit you need.
- 【Compact and Convenient】Thanks to its compact size, this 1/4 inch bit holder is easy to carry around. The bit holder allows for easy attachment to various tools, making this a convenient addition to your construction accessories. The Katerk bit holder is cast from high-quality alloy material, promising a long product lifespan. Despite its rugged strength, the bit holder remains lightweight, making it portable.
- 【Cool Christmas Gift For Men Stocking Stuffers】 This screwdriver bit holder, driver bit holder, impact bit holder, can be given as a gift to your loved one, especially for anyone involved in construction or electrical work. It's a must-have for stocking stuffers for men and women, tools gifts for dad, tech gadgets for men, gifts for dad, gifts for him, gifts for husband, gifts for boyfriend, cool gadgets for men, and cool gifts for dad.
The label alone does not establish that a panel is suitable for every snow, wind, maintenance or seismic condition. Span, support spacing, fasteners, clips, substrate, penetrations and local code loads all affect the design. A project team should request the applicable load data and have the engineer of record verify the complete assembly.
Who designed and built the Owens facility?
The case study names Rooney Clinger Murray Architects as architect, Charles Construction Services as general contractor and Meade Roofing as roofing contractor. It also reports that Charles Construction Services received the Associated General Contractors Build Ohio Award for “New Construction Under $10 Million.” The award is part of the article’s project reporting; it is not an independent test of the roof system.
Keeping those roles distinct helps explain why curved roofing decisions cannot be assigned to one trade alone. The architect establishes the visual intent, the engineer verifies structure and loads, the manufacturer confirms a compatible panel configuration, the general contractor coordinates the schedule, and the roofing contractor executes the field work.
What can another college learn from this case?
The Owens example supports a design-and-procurement process rather than a one-size-fits-all product recommendation. A campus considering a curved roof should ask the following questions before selecting a system:
- What is the architectural objective? Is the curve intended to mark an entrance, conceal equipment, connect several wings or simply shed water?
- What radius is actually available? Compare the desired geometry with the selected profile’s minimum radius and the structure’s buildable radius.
- Does the roof need to span between supports? Decide whether a structural panel is appropriate or whether a non-structural skin over a continuous deck better fits the project.
- How will the curve transition? Detail ridges, eaves, parapets, end walls, skylights, mechanical curbs and penetrations before fabrication.
- Who will field-seam the roof? Confirm trained labor, approved equipment and access to manufacturer support in the project region.
- What does the specification require? State gauge, coverage, finish, clips, substrate, testing documentation, warranties and inspection responsibilities explicitly.
- How will dimensions be verified? Survey the installed framing and compare it with shop drawings before panels are released or seamed.
Alternatives should be compared on structural versus non-structural behavior, minimum radius, substrate requirements, attachment and seaming methods, engineering support and regional availability. The case study does not compare competing bids or prove that Curved BattenLok is categorically better than another roof type.
Also popular on Amazon
- Toolwiz 17-inch magnetic sweeper maintaining a load capacity of up to 8.8 pounds provides a perfect solution to the problem of clearing small ferrous metal objects, such as nails, tacks, bolts, and metal shavings from workshops or garage floors.
- Convenient and portable:17” is good for home, small workshop, or small yard as it is space-saving and more reachable for narrow areas. Perfect for collecting nails or small parts in the car, under the table, and in other nooks or crannies.
- Upgraded Handle Design: The handle features a sturdy, non-telescopic design to completely prevent slipping during use. By simply adding or removing the extension poles, the height can be adjusted to 3 different lengths: 18.9" (48 cm), 32.5" (82.5 cm), and 42.5" (108 cm) from ground to top. This customizable height helps prevent back bending and muscle strain, making your cleaning tasks effortless
- Flexible wheels: Upgrade wheel screws to avoid being too tight to spin or too loose. More comfortable 3-inch rubber wheels roll smoothly on carpet, grass, concrete, and hardwood floors. Just push and pull this rolling magnet-sweeper to pick up metal nails easily.
- Lightweight materials: The magnetic nail sweeper's compact and lightweight design makes the sweeping can be done anywhere you want, Push or pull it under the furniture, passing through the workshop floor, driveway, mud, grass, and gravel.
What evidence does the 2015 case study establish?
The article is strong evidence for the project’s reported size, program, color, panel area, named firms and stated 22-gauge specification. It also records the design intent: the red curved roof was used to emphasize the campus arch.
It is not evidence of current enrollment, current product pricing or independent comparative performance. The article says the panels were tested by a certified independent laboratory under ASTM procedures, but it does not identify the test methods, specimens or measured results. That statement should therefore remain qualified; it should not be converted into a quantified wind, snow, water or durability claim.
Likewise, the case study does not provide a construction cost, maintenance history or lifecycle assessment. Those questions require project records, current manufacturer documentation or independent evaluations.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Is Curved BattenLok still a current product option?
MBCI’s current curved-roof product page continues to describe curved roof and fascia systems, including structural and non-structural panel options. That confirms an ongoing product category, but it does not establish that a particular color, gauge, radius, lead time or configuration is available for a new project. A design team should obtain the current technical literature, availability confirmation and project-specific engineering from MBCI and its representative.
MBCI’s resources also describe seamer support and field-seaming kits. The equipment is specialist trade gear, not a general-purpose roofing tool that a building owner should purchase for occasional maintenance. Installation should remain with a qualified commercial roofing contractor working from approved details.
Also popular on Amazon
- APPLY TO MOST DRILLS : 6 pieces screw extractors work with any drill and all the screw size or bolt (3-12mm), These extractor tools are used to reverse the damaged screw counterclockwise until it is released
- The DIY Tools for Men-Men won't know they need screw extractor set until they have one! This screw extractor set is GIFTS WRAP AVAILABLE, can be gifted to your loved ones as it reflects a fresh trend with fun and practical. Amazing and Unique tool gifts for men women. The must have stocking stuffers for men, gifts for dad, husband, father, him, guy teens, adult, Boyfriend, son on Birthdays, Christmas, Fathers Day or anniversary. Perfect Holiday Gifts Guide
- HIGH QUALITY - This damaged screw remover tool kit is made from High-Speed Steel H.S.S 4341# , which have high hardness of 63hrc, it's durable and easily to remove any damaged screws.
- EASY TO USE: Just two simple steps to get the job done - drill a hole with a cutting size using the right size screw extractor and easily remove the screw or bolt using the removal tool Hardness 63-65HRC: Titanium hardened steel material, more durable than most screw extractors on the market, better hardness and durability than others, buy with confidence and complete peace of mind
- Cool Gadgets for Men Dad Christmas Birthday Gifts for Men and Women - Men won't know they need screw extractor sets until they have one! Every screw has the potential to rust and break, which can create a situation where it cannot be removed. Owning it, there will be no anxiety about rusty screws. This screw extractor set is GIFTS WRAP AVAILABLE, can be gifted to your loved ones as it reflects a fresh trend with fun and practical. Amazing and unique tool gifts for men women. A must have stocking stuffer for men on birthdays, Christmas, Father's Day or anniversaries, a gifts for dads, husbands, fathers, him, adults, boyfriends, sons. The best and most practical and surprising Christmas gifts
How should the Owens example be remembered?
The Findlay expansion shows how a curved metal roof can perform two jobs at once: provide a large institutional enclosure and give the campus a memorable architectural edge. Its most transferable lesson is coordination. The 119,407-square-foot building, 15,500 square feet of red curved panels and 20-foot minimum-radius context all came together because the visual concept was tied to structural and installation requirements from the outset.
For a new college, school or civic project, the responsible takeaway is not to copy the Owens specification blindly. It is to define the intended curve, verify the support system, select the appropriate structural or non-structural panel, document gauge and finish, and confirm field-seaming capability before procurement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a curved standing-seam roof be placed over an existing flat roof?
Sometimes, but it normally requires a new structural support system, verified load paths and carefully designed transitions at walls and drainage points. An engineer must determine whether the existing building can carry the added framing, panels, snow, wind and maintenance loads.
Does a heavier gauge automatically make a curved panel suitable for a project?
No. Gauge is only one input. Span, support spacing, clip design, seam behavior, metal strength, local loads and the complete assembly determine suitability; the engineer should use the manufacturer’s current data rather than gauge alone.
What should be requested from a manufacturer before issuing a curved-roof specification?
Request the current installation manual, profile and radius limits, structural load information, compatible clips and substrates, finish information, seaming requirements, warranty terms and confirmation of regional availability. Require the supplier to review the project drawings and identify any configuration that needs special engineering.
Is field seaming something a general contractor can do with ordinary sheet-metal tools?
No. The system uses dedicated seaming equipment and a defined installation process. MBCI describes field-seaming kits and representative support, so the roofing contractor should confirm approved equipment, trained personnel and access to technical assistance before work begins.

