Architectural Systems FAQs

Laminators sells to installers through a network of distributors and independent reps across the United States and Canada. Call 800-523-2347 to learn where to purchase our architectural panel products and installation systems.

Yes. We expect that, on some projects, the Omega CI installer may be different than the Omega-Lite installer. We will work with the project team to coordinate delivery of the Omega CI product to the proper trade/customer for the project.

No.  Omega CI was not intended, designed, or tested behind other third-party exterior wall coverings.  OCI is not intended to be used without a Laminators’ system.

Yes.  We recommend and provide an approved list of silicone caulks and adhesives for use with our panels on our website. Click here for the most current list.

Laminators sells a high density (7 lb.) closed cell PVC foam tape that has been tested and approved to work with our installation systems. Typically, the foam tape stocked at hardware stores is not PVC or it is of a lower-density construction than we recommend and it will not be effective with our panels. In addition, the proper 3/16" x 2" size may be difficult to find at a local store as well. Failure to use our recommended instructions and materials may void your warranty.

We also sell #6 x ¼” Phillips Pan Head screws (Part No. 13000) which are used for fabrication purposes (for the installation of Rout & Return clips or Dry Seal Z-extrusions to the panels, and reinforcement angles for fabricated corners). We have found that it is sometimes difficult to find this particular screw at a local hardware store or distributor. All other screws and rivets included in our installation instructions and details are typically readily available from local sources.

If Omega CI is part of your project, we sell fasteners that are 4” in length and are designed specifically for attaching the Omega CI product to steel framing. We sell these fasteners in 500 count packs.

One of the advantages of working with Laminators Incorporated is that we don't have order minimums. However depending on the item(s) ordered, a set up charge may apply.

The answer to this question varies by region. However, we have found that the total cost of the aluminum profiles supplied by Laminators, inclusive of material, handling, and installation, is less expensive than that of typical steel profiles.

Lead time for manufacturing is 2-4 weeks for most standard panel systems. Actual lead time may vary depending on size of the order, special materials, ship to location, custom color orders, etc. Call 800-523-2347 for more information.

Laminators Incorporated offers a wide variety of colors and finishes to meet your specific product needs. Laminators' panels are available in polyester, anodized and Kynar 500 coatings.

We can provide nearly any color to match your standard. Simply send us a sample of the color you are looking to replicate or provide a Pantone color number. Our team of experts will work to color-match our panels to meet your needs.

Yes. Laminators offers color-matched flashing to suit your project needs.

Laminators offers a variety of cores for our ACM panels. Omega‐Lite has a polypropylene, corrugated core. Thermolite incorporates an insulated foam core sandwiched between the same corrugated core Omega‐Lite utilizes. Omega Foam‐Ply also has an insulated foam core, but it is between hardboard stabilizers. Our brochures and our Architectural Selector Tool are available to assist you in selecting the best product for your specific project.

Because the core of our standard Omega‐Lite product has passed the rigorous NFPA 285 testing in all of our systems, we do not offer a separate FR core. Unlike other ACM manufacturers with separate FR products that are offered at a higher cost, Laminators does not offer a separate FR core product.

You can access R-value information on our Technical Data Sheets page.

Laminators developed a router bit that is specifically modified to groove our corrugated panels and score the back of the face metal. This maintains the integrity of the panel and provides a crisp corner on the return. We strongly recommend using the Laminators' router bit to save time, reduce waste and ensure proper installation.

You can access any of our specifications, CAD details on our website by visiting our Downloads page.

Yes.  Laminators Incorporated provides Installation/System Guides, CAD Drawings, and an Approved Materials List to be used in the development of shop drawings.  Shop drawing details may be generated to meet/adapt to project-specific conditions provided such details remain in conformance with Laminators CAD Drawings.  However, shop drawing details that are generated in conflict with Laminators CAD Drawings are not supported and will render any warranty null and void.  Please contact Laminators Technical Support for any questions regarding the use of Laminators CAD Drawings.

No.  See the “Field-Fabricated Installation Systems Selection Chart” (available through Sales).  Note that if a third-party CI system is proposed for a project, the responsibility for substitution falls to the Design Professional of Record (e.g. architect) and is typically approved with an Engineering Judgment Letter (EJL) provided by the third-party that stands to gain from the substitution (e.g. an EJL may be produced by a product manufacturer or fire consultant).

A vapor-permeable air and water barrier (AWB) must be located on the surface of the Omega CI in order to protect the plywood layer from moisture infiltration from the exterior and to allow less restricted vapor flow through the Omega CI product.  At the discretion of the project-specific Design Professional of Record (DPR), an additional AWB may be located on the face of the gypsum sheathing behind the Omega CI.  It is recommended that the additional AWB be vapor-permeable.

Per Laminators detail sets, the 1-Piece, Tight-Fit and Clip & Caulk panel systems and Omega CI are not permitted over open framing (i.e. without a substrate).

On the current Approved Materials List, the air and water barrier (AWB) is listed for each of the NFPA 285 tested assemblies.  If a different AWB is proposed for a project, an Engineering Judgment Letter (EJL), or Engineering Evaluation (EEV), would be required.  Alternatively, you can reference Laminators’ EEV for a list of additional AWB materials that are approved for use in NFPA 285 assemblies.

Please note that the commonly used terms “air and water barrier” (AWB) and “air and vapor barrier” (AVB) are not interchangeable.  An AWB controls liquid water, while an AVB will prevent the movement of water vapor (water in gas form).  A vapor barrier is never permitted to be installed on the surface of Omega CI.  If a second AWB is installed on the gypsum sheathing behind the Omega CI, it is recommended that it be vapor-permeable.

The new & improved 1-Piece, Tight-Fit and Clip & Caulk field-fabricated installation systems were designed, tested, and detailed with a nominal 1” air space between panel and substrate.  If the dimension of the proposed air space deviates from 1” and/or there is a proposed third-party CI system, an EJL would be required.

Yes. Typically with alternate manufacturer's panel systems, radial panel installations require costly engineering, shop fabrication, and are difficult to install. Omega-Flex panels make such applications easy and inexpensive without sacrificing beauty; however, special panel configurations are required. Flex panels will conform to the curved shape of the structural support system without costly off-site roll-forming. Omega-Flex panels must be installed with our 1-Piece, Tight-Fit moldings.

Laminators Incorporated provides comprehensive installation instructions on how to install our panels using our different methods. If you choose to make modifications or substitutions to Laminators' installation instructions, you may do so at your own risk. Laminators' Limited Warranty is predicated on following our tested and certified installation procedures. If you choose to install our panels using a method outside of the instructions provided, your warranty will be null and void.

Laminators does not have a formal certification process. However, many of our installers have been trained by a Laminators Field Service Technician. For more information on Laminators' installers in your area, call 800-523-2347 and speak with a sales representative.

Laminators' ACM panels should be washed periodically to keep them bright. Plain water and a clean cloth are all you need to remove ordinary dirt buildup. A mild, non-abrasive household detergent with a clean-water rinse can be used for more stubborn stains. Solvents such as alcohols, mineral spirits, naphtha, turpentine, and xylene can be applied with a soft cloth. Never soak panels in solvents.