By Anna Lockhart.  

As metal building materials continue to rise in popularity, it’s time for contractors across the building envelope to get in on the action! 

For superstar brands like Central States Manufacturing, the International Roofing Expo (IRE) is the perfect place to show off their latest product offerings and present the public with a chance to see them up close and in action. Visiting their booth during this year’s trade show, The Coffee Shops™ Editor in Chief Lauren White spoke with Central States Manufacturing’s Director of Marketing Melissa Dunson to find out more about the brand’s plans for 2026.  

Central States shines when it comes to offering premier, high-quality metal building products, serving sectors across the building envelope such as residential, commercial, agricultural and storage applications. As Melissa noted, their goal is to be the one-stop-shop for metal building products, no matter your industry background.  

“We’re not just residential. If you’re interested in metal roofing, there’s a really good chance that we make the profiles with the gauges and the paint systems that you need because we offer such a comprehensive line,” Melissa shared. “We even do siding, walls, full metal buildings with frames and metal roll-up doors. If it’s metal, we’ve got it.”  

Such an expansive and all-encompassing line-up of products puts Central States in a prime place for being multiple industries’ go-to supplier for any and all of their metal needs. And as consumers – home and building owners alike – continue to show a growing interest in metal, now is the time for contractors to explore the benefits of the material.  

In particular, Melissa noted that they’ve recently seen an uptick in residential interest in metal thanks to celebrities and influencers like Chip and Joanna Gaines who are showcasing metal roofing as a prime option. She explained, “The metal market is expected to grow drastically, particularly for standing seam and residential spaces. Our Central Snap® product has become popular because of this. It has a hidden fastener and isn’t exposed, which really provides an excellent lifetime warranty. It has the longevity and beauty that people are looking for.” 

Pivotal to the conversation was Melissa’s emphasis on the fact that, no matter what your current experience is with metal, if you’re a contractor, there’s always time to get into it. She noted, “I would just like to say to any roofer out there interested in metal roofing. It’s okay if you don’t know how to do it yet. There are good manufacturers who can help you learn how to do these things, because this is where the industry is headed – metal.” 

Ultimately, her message was loud and clear: metal isn’t going away anytime soon, so it’s better late than never to find out how to incorporate metal into your business services. Residential, commercial, agricultural – if it can use metal, brands like Central States Manufacturing have you taken care of! 

Watch the interview to learn more about Central States Manufacturing and the latest highlights straight from the metal industry!

Central States Inc. launches roll-up door motor in latest expansion of accessory offerings in innovative Sentry line of door and hallway systems for improved ventilation, energy efficiency, ease of operation and accessibility for self-storage applications.

Along with the new EasyRoller™ 14 Door Opener roll-up door motor, other new Sentry accessory additions include ventilated doors and insulated door kits, providing owners and operators with greater flexibility to tailor door systems to the specific needs of their facilities. Together, these enhancements support long-term durability, improved tenant comfort and smoother, more accessible operation while maintaining the reliability and performance expected from the Sentry brand.

EasyRoller™ 14 opener brings proven automation and accessibility advantages to sentry doors

Starting today, customers can include the EasyRoller 14 Door Opener with their Sentry orders. EasyRoller 14 is a compact, high-performance operator that brings proven automation to the Sentry door and hallway system. Designed to integrate seamlessly with Sentry roll-up doors, the EasyRoller 14 helps reduce the physical effort required to operate doors, an important advantage for improving ease of use and supporting accessibility needs within self-storage facilities.

Powered by a 600N DC motor, the EasyRoller 14 is engineered to reliably lift and lower doors across the Sentry lineup, making it well suited for a wide range of self-storage applications. The operator includes TrioCode™128 remote controls for secure access and a bright LED courtesy light that enhances visibility during operation.

The motorized system also supports smoother, more controlled door movement, which can be beneficial in facilities designed to accommodate ADA considerations when 
paired with appropriate door hardware and accessories. Soft start-and-stop technology reduces strain on door components, helping minimize wear, reduce damage and 
extend the overall life of the door system while delivering quieter, more consistent operation.

Ventilated and insulated door options

Customers also have the option to purchase new ventilated doors as part of their hallway systems. These ventilated doors feature a perforated panel on the bottom portion of the door engineered to permit airflow within mechanical rooms or other enclosed spaces. The design helps mitigate heat buildup and reduces moisture accumulation over time. Designed to blend seamlessly into the Sentry hallway system, the ventilated door maintains a consistent aesthetic by using the same profiles found 
throughout the product lineup.

Insulated door kits gives customers the option to add another layer of performance to their Sentry roll-up doors by helping moderate interior temperatures and minimize condensation caused by fluctuating weather conditions. This added thermal barrier can contribute to improved energy efficiency, enhanced tenant comfort and better protection for stored contents—particularly in climate-sensitive storage applications or regions prone to extreme heat or cold.

Together, these options give facility owners greater flexibility to strike the right balance between airflow, comfort and protection based on building design, local climate and evolving customer expectations.

Designed to work together

With these new accessories, the Sentry Door and Hallway system continues to evolve as a fully integrated solution. Each addition is engineered to work within the Sentry ecosystem, helping simplify specification, installation and long-term performance while giving customers more control over how their buildings function—whether prioritizing energy efficiency, automation or accessibility.

For more information about Sentry doors, hallways and accessories, visit Central States’ website.

By Jenny Yu.  

Central States Manufacturing continues to expand its Sentry lineup with security-focused innovations for modern storage projects. 

An exciting new product has hit the market: Central States Manufacturing’s Sentry self-storage combo latch. In further expanding its impressive Sentry product line, Central States Manufacturing establishes itself as a one-stop shop for durable and secure self-storage solutions. 

The new Sentry self-storage combo latch was engineered to support evolving security demands across modern storage facilities. Available in both yellow zinc and stainless-steel options, the latch system is designed to provide greater corrosion resistance and longer service life than traditional zinc alloy latches. According to Central States, the stainless-steel version has been tested to last three to five times longer in humid and salt-exposed environments. 

The system also gives operators more options when it comes to access control. The latch can accommodate padlocks or cylinder locks on the same apparatus and can transition to a keyed bezel lock without replacing the latch itself. That versatility allows facility owners to adopt security systems over time while minimizing replacement costs and operational disruptions. 

In addition, the latch tongue is compatible with magnetic locking systems and emerging security technologies, helping facilities prepare for increased adoption of smart access systems. A 90-degree tongue angle also adds another layer of protection against security threats. 

“With the Sentry self-storage combo latch, our goal was to raise the standard,” said Andrew Wilson, chief engineering and innovation officer at Central States. “The added versatility and security features give operators flexibility today and confidence for the future.” 

The new latch is now available across the full Sentry door lineup, including 6500 roll-up doors, 7500 roll-up doors and swing and locker doors. The launch continues Central States’ broader push to provide integrated self-storage solutions that streamline sourcing for contractors and facility owners. 

Visit Central States Manufacturing’s website to learn more about the Sentry self-storage combo latch and explore their full lineup of products!

By Central States Manufacturing. 

Metal roofing provides next-level resilience in the face of harsh weather conditions.  

Today, severe weather conditions are no longer a what if, but when. As storms and climates grow increasingly volatile across the United States, this new normal has changed the way home and building owners view the investments made in their properties. Whether they face a hurricane season, tornado alley or intense temperatures in either direction, weather is a concern no matter where you are.    

As the primary barrier between a structure and the elements, roofing material selection plays a major role in how well a building performs during extreme weather and how quickly it can recover afterward. That’s why metal roofing has become a cornerstone of resilient building strategies for homeowners, builders and communities alike. As the experts at Central States explain, prioritizing the roof is the first step in storm preparedness. 

Why roofing matters in storm preparedness 

Roofing failures are among the most common and costly outcomes of severe weather events. When a roof is compromised, wind, water and debris can rapidly damage interior spaces, structural components and personal property. 

Metal roofing offers a fundamentally different performance profile compared to traditional materials. Engineered metal roof systems are designed to withstand high winds, hail impacts, fire exposure and wind driven rain, making them a powerful tool for storm‑resilient construction. 

High wind roofing performance: Protection beyond the coast 

Hurricane season officially begins each June, but recent storms have shown that hurricane-force winds are no longer limited to coastal regions. Inland states have experienced historic wind events, including derechos and tornado‑driven systems that caused widespread damage and loss of life. 

Metal roofing has long been trusted in coastal environments because of its superior wind resistance. Many metal roof systems are rated to withstand winds exceeding 140 miles per hour, far outperforming many conventional roofing materials. 

This performance is driven by: 

• The inherent strength of steel 
• Interlocking panel designs 
• Engineered fastening systems that rely on screws rather than nails 

As resilient building initiatives such as the IBHS Fortified program expand into more inland states, metal roofing continues to gain traction as a high wind roofing solution for homes, agricultural buildings and commercial facilities. 

Hail resistant roofing for increasing impact risk 

Hail damage is one of the leading causes of roofing insurance claims in the U.S., and research indicates that large hail events are becoming more frequent. Golf ball sized hail or larger, poses a serious threat to roofs that are not designed for impact resistance. 

Metal roofing consistently demonstrates some of the strongest performance against aerial impacts. Studies referenced by the Metal Roofing Alliance and the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety show that metal roofs can withstand golf ball sized impacts without puncturing. 

Many metal roofing products achieve a UL 2218 Class 4 impact rating, the highest available. This means the roofing system can withstand repeated impacts from a 2‑inch steel ball dropped from 20 feet without failure. 

Wildfire resistant roofing starts with non‑combustible materials 

Wildfire risk is expanding rapidly, with millions of U.S. homes now located in areas identified as having high or extreme wildfire exposure. Roofing plays a critical role in wildfire defense, particularly against airborne embers that can ignite vulnerable materials. 

Metal roofing offers a major advantage because metal is naturally non‑combustible. Quality metal roofing systems carry a Class A fire rating, the highest rating available from third‑party testing organizations. These systems are capable of withstanding extended flame exposure and meeting or exceeding ASTM and UL fire‑resistance standards. 

Because of this performance, FEMA recommends fire-resistant materials like metal roofing for properties located in wildfire‑prone areas. 

Metal roofing and faster post storm recovery 

Storm preparedness isn’t just about surviving the event; it’s about recovering quickly afterward. Buildings that experience roof failure often face prolonged repairs, higher insurance costs and extended displacement. 

Metal roofing contributes to community resilience and faster rebuilding by offering: 

• Long service life 
• Reduced maintenance requirements 
• Strong post‑storm structural integrity 

After severe weather events, metal roofing systems help provide immediate protection while minimizing long-term repair needs. This makes them a critical component of rebuilding efforts focused on durability and future resilience rather than short‑term fixes. 

Sustainability and long‑term value 

In addition to storm performance, metal roofing supports long‑term sustainability goals. Its durability reduces material replacement cycles, and many metal roofing systems are compatible with energy efficient designs and cool roof strategies. 

For property owners planning not just for the next storm, but for decades of performance, metal roofing represents a long-term investment in both protection and value. 

Preparing for the next storm starts now 

As storm and tornado seasons approach, the importance of resilient building materials becomes increasingly clear. Metal roofing delivers proven performance against the most damaging weather threats – high winds, hail and fire, making it one of the most effective tools available for storm preparedness. 

By choosing metal roofing, homeowners, builders and communities can reduce risk, improve safety and increase the likelihood that buildings remain protected when extreme weather strikes. 

Original article source: Central States Manufacturing

Central Link sends quote data to Saberis in just one to two seconds with a single click, helping customers get back to their day-to-day faster.

Central States Inc. is making customer ordering easier than ever through a new integration with the Saberis platform, a leading middleware system serving the lumber and building materials industry. The new integration between Central States’ Central Link customer portal and the Saberis platform represents a major step forward in reducing manual processes, minimizing errors and improving overall ordering efficiency.

Saberis specializes in connecting supplier ordering systems, like Central Link, with customer ERP and Point of Sale platforms, enabling seamless data transfer across systems already widely used by building material dealers. With the new integration, Central States customers can transmit quote data directly from Central Link to Saberis without downloading or managing import files, significantly simplifying workflows and saving time for sales and operations teams. Previously, syncing quote data meant managing downloaded files and switching between multiple browser tabs. With this new integration, Central Link sends quote data to Saberis in just one to two seconds with a single click, helping customers get back to their day-to-day faster.

“This integration removes friction from the ordering process and makes it easier for customers to do business with Central States,” said Greg Granata, IT product manager at Central States. “By eliminating duplicate data entry and automating quote transfers, our customers can work more efficiently while reducing the risk of errors.” From a customer standpoint, the advantages are immediate:

• Faster order processing
• Improved data accuracy
• Deeper integration between Central States and existing business systems

The Saberis integration is available now. A Saberis software subscription is required to utilize the integration. Current Central States customers interested in activating the integration or learning more about how it works are encouraged to contact their Central States sales representative. Existing Saberis users interested in learning more about how the integration makes Central States a preferred metal building products supplier, please contact us here.

For more information about Central Link, the metal industry’s leading customer portal first developed in 2005, visit our website.

About Central States

Central States, Inc. is a 100% employee-owned company founded in 1988. With more than 1,300 employee-owners and 13 manufacturing facilities across the United States, Central States serves thousands of commercial, architectural, post-frame, and residential customers through three operating business units – Central States Manufacturing, a nationwide manufacturer of metal roofing, siding, walls, doors, and other components, Central States Building Works, an all-inclusive solution for materialonly metal building packages, including self-storage and PEMB, and Elevate Structures, a leader in mid-rise, multi-story construction, and the developers of the proprietary Alpha Framing System™.

By Anna Lockhart.  

Central States provides peace of mind for their self-storage customers with their latest latch product launch. 

In a recent episode of the MetalCast™ podcast, host Karen Edwards sat down with Andrew Wilson, chief engineering and innovation officer for Central States Manufacturing, to discuss the brand’s latest self-storage launch. Introducing the Sentry self-storage latch and combo latch – a thoughtfully designed solution providing durability, security and long-term flexibility for users. Andrew highlighted how this new hardware can revolutionize how owners view locking options and provide peace of mind.  

The Sentry latch comes on the heels of the brand’s success with their Sentry doors, as customers were eager for a solution to pair with the product. Andrew shared, “Last year we launched the Sentry roll-up door, which was received with positive feedback. Now, that continues with the latches, as customers were looking for high-quality, high-performing latches that would have good corrosion performance, strength and durability.” 

In comparison to other latch offerings on the market, Sentry latches are offered in stainless steel options, which is valuable in terms of corrosion resistance and longevity. With real world needs across the self-storage market, having reliable, long-lasting materials owners can rely on matters most. With these latches, Central States aims to meet those needs, and more.  

Andrew shared, “Our latches provide flexibility. For example, you can choose from the beginning to use a cylinder punch lock, or you can add them later on if needed. You can have a padlock and the ability to overlock, which might be important in cases where a tenant doesn’t pay, allowing the owner to prevent access until payments are made.” 

Ensuring products are created with every possible need in mind was key to the design process. “We’ve designed our whole product line considering the very foundation of the building to the door itself. We want to provide a high-quality product that, once installed, isn’t going to require lots of maintenance. And that ethos has carried through the whole process and over to the creation of the latch.” 

Listen to the conversation or Watch the video to learn more about Central States and the Sentry product line.  

Following an extensive national search, Central States Inc. is excited to announce Kurt Weaver as the incoming chief executive officer for the enterprise business, including Central States Manufacturing, Central States Building Works and Elevate Structures. 

The appointment comes more than two years after current CEO Jim Sliker was elected chairman of the board for Central States Inc. and will enable him to fully transition into his position leading the board of directors. Sliker will work closely with Weaver throughout 2026 to support his onboarding and ensure a smooth transition. Weaver assumes the role on June 1, 2026, at the Tontitown, Arkansas headquarters location, and will begin building relationships with the employee-owners, customers and suppliers upon his arrival.

“Following a comprehensive and rigorous search process, the board is confident that Kurt is the right leader to guide Central States into its next phase of growth,” said Christopher Harrison, lead director on the Central States board. “His track record of scaling businesses, operational depth and alignment with our values make him a strong fit for our employee-owned culture.”

Kurt Weaver

Weaver comes to Central States with more than 30 years of experience in the automotive and flooring sectors, bringing with him a foundation in operational excellence. In his most recent role, president of Mohawk Industries’ Resilient Flooring division, he successfully grew the business to more than $1 billion in annual revenue by focusing on product development, market expansion and operational efficiency.

Weaver has a strong engineering and continuous improvement background, holding a Bachelor of Science degree from Ferris State University and an MBA from Michigan State University. In his previous roles at Toyoda Gosei, a multi-billion-dollar subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation, Weaver held leadership positions in sales, engineering and administration, before being named President of Toyoda’s truck business. Under his leadership, the business saw substantial growth in both the top and bottom lines. His tenure in the role was characterized by a focus on quality and innovation, as he fostered a culture of excellence within the organization.

He has also served in sales and engineering roles for both Ruecker Engineering and American Sunroof. 

Weaver is known for his ability to rally his teams around a shared vision and consistently seeking opportunities to fix and enhance processes. He has earned the reputation in business of leading with humility, teamwork and genuine care for people, while fostering a high-energy environment that actively pursues continuous improvement. “I am excited to join the team at Central States – recognizing the alignment of the company culture with my team-based leadership style made the decision to join the company easy,” Weaver said. “That decision was further supported by meeting a very knowledgeable and enthusiastic team. I'm also looking forward to moving to the area and enjoying all the outdoor activities Arkansas has to offer. I would like to thank Jim and the Central States board of directors for making the rigorous recruitment process valuable for everyone.”

Jim Sliker

Sliker has served as Central States CEO since 2013, joining the company after a 20-year career in the automotive industry. Under Sliker’s leadership, Central States entered a period of unprecedented growth, including new manufacturing plant openings in South Dakota, Kentucky, Texas, Pennsylvania, Missouri, South Carolina and Utah. During this period, Central States also expanded its Pre-Engineered Metal Building (PEMB) offering with the opening of a new metal frame plant in Springdale, Arkansas and added construction capabilities and the patented Alpha Framing System™ with the acquisition of longtime customer Storage Structures, later rebranding the company Elevate Structures. 

As chairman of the board for Central States Inc., Sliker will continue to provide leadership for the seven-member board to ensure effective governance, strategic oversight and accountability of executive leadership in collaboration with the third-party trustee to represent the interests of the 1,300 employee owners of the company. Sliker will continue to reside in Northwest Arkansas and serve the community and business as needed. 

“Serving as CEO has been a blessing and the highlight of my career,” Sliker said. “I am proud of what the collective Central States team has built together over the years. As I move more fully into this next chapter, I have full confidence in Kurt as our new CEO. He brings a deep background and a strong alignment with our purpose, values and culture. I look forward to supporting him and the leadership team as we continue to innovate to better serve our customers.”

About Central States

Central States, Inc. is a 100% employee-owned company founded in 1988. With more than 1,300 employee-owners and 13 manufacturing facilities across the United States, Central States serves thousands of commercial, architectural, post-frame and residential customers through three operating business units – Central States Manufacturing, a nationwide manufacturer of metal roofing, siding, walls, doors and other components, Central States Building Works, an all-inclusive solution for material-only metal building packages, including self-storage and PEMB and Elevate Structures, a leader in mid-rise, multi-story construction and the developers of the proprietary Alpha Framing System™

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Explore the trends, benefits and future of metal construction in the self-storage sector.

The self-storage industry continues to be one of the most resilient and steadily growing sectors in commercial construction. Driven by lifestyle changes, population mobility and evolving business needs, self-storage has become a critical part of how individuals and businesses manage space. Across the country, new facilities are being built while existing properties are being upgraded to meet increasing demand and higher customer expectations. 

At the same time, metal building systems are leading the way as the preferred construction method for self-storage. Manufacturers like Central States Manufacturing are helping drive this shift by providing high-performance metal panels, structural components and door systems designed for durability, efficiency and long-term value. 

The growth of self-storage is being fueled by clear, consistent trends. Homeowners are downsizing or relocating more frequently, creating a need for both short-term and long-term storage. Businesses are using storage units to manage inventory, equipment and records more efficiently. eCommerce and small business expansion continue to increase demand for flexible storage solutions that can scale quickly. These factors are creating strong demand for new facilities in both urban and suburban markets. 

Metal buildings are central to meeting that demand because they offer clear advantages over traditional construction. Speed to market is a major benefit. Pre-engineered metal building systems can be fabricated off site and assembled quickly, allowing developers to open facilities faster and begin generating revenue sooner. In competitive markets, timing directly impacts occupancy and profitability. 

Cost efficiency continues to drive decision making. Metal systems reduce labor costs, minimize material waste and offer predictable pricing. Over the life of the building, they require less maintenance than wood or masonry structures. Metal resists pests, moisture and fire, making it an ideal solution for protecting stored goods while reducing long-term operational expenses. 

Durability and performance are essential in self-storage design. Facilities must withstand constant use, changing weather conditions and long lifecycles. Metal panels and structural systems provide the strength and resilience needed to maintain performance over decades. High-quality metal doors add security, ease of operation and longevity, supporting a better customer experience. 

Flexibility is a defining advantage of metal construction. Facilities can be designed for single-story or multi-story layouts, making it easier to maximize land use in both rural and urban environments. Metal building systems also allow for straightforward expansion, enabling owners to grow as demand increases without major disruption. 

Key trends are shaping the future of self-storage and metal buildings. Multi-story storage is expanding in urban areas as land costs rise and density increases. Modular and prefabricated construction is improving efficiency, reducing timelines and enhancing quality control. Facility upgrades are helping owners modernize older properties with new metal panels, doors and security systems that improve both performance and appearance. Technology integration is transforming operations with smart access, surveillance and automated leasing systems. Sustainability and resilience are becoming priorities as developers look for recyclable materials, energy efficiency and buildings that can withstand extreme weather. 

The combination of self-storage growth and metal building innovation is creating significant opportunities across the construction industry. Developers benefit from faster builds and stronger returns. Contractors gain access to efficient, repeatable systems. Manufacturers continue to advance products that meet evolving market needs. 

Metal buildings have proven to be more than just a construction option for self-storage. They are the foundation of a business model built on efficiency, durability and adaptability. As demand continues to grow, this partnership will remain a driving force in shaping the future of commercial construction. 

To stay informed on the latest trends, innovations and opportunities in metal buildings and self-storage, follow the industry’s growth on MetalCoffeeShop™ and be part of the conversation shaping what comes next. 

By Anna Lockhart.  

Learn the importance of optimizing your business opportunities and offerings by adding metal roofing to your line up!  

Live from The Coffee Shops™ sound stage at the 2026 International Roofing Expo, Karen Edwards sat down with Melissa Dunson from Central States Manufacturing to discuss the latest updates from the brand and what attendees could expect from their booth on the trade show floor.  

As the leading manufacturer of metal building materials, Central States is a trusted source for any metal roofing needs a contractor might have. Melissa mentioned the growing desire across the market for standing seam products, which was the primary focus of their booth display set up. “If you know anything about what’s happening in the metal industry right now, standing seam roofing is predicted to grow the fastest – 14% year-over-year,” she explained. “So, we’ve set up some beautiful displays to highlight how our clip systems work and provide visuals when discussing quality, specs and availability with attendees.” 

IRE is the perfect opportunity for non-metal contractors to learn more about the opportunities metal can offer their business. “Metal is growing, and many people are interested in learning more about the buzz. So, we encourage attendees to stop by our booth to talk about the logistics of installing metal roofs and any educational information,” Melissa added.  

With metal roofing being projected to be one of the fastest forms of roofing to grow for the next decade, now is the perfect time for contractors to consider the benefits of adding metal services to their lineup. Melissa shared, “We get a lot of people who say, ‘I think I want to offer metal, but I need to know how to install and sell the product.’ And that’s what we do. We’re here to help contractors understand how to sell metal to home and building owners, and how to best communicate its value.” 

She emphasized the benefits of metal roofing being a major reason to give metal products a try. With metal materials offering significantly longer lifespans and levels of durability than traditional roofing materials, it’s hard not to see the benefit of utilizing the material. She urged IRE attendees to stop by the Central States booth, where they could get an up-close look at an interactive kiosk, designed to showcase the digital educational tools that contractors can use to expand their understanding and knowledge of the selling, installation and ordering processes for metal roofing.  

With endless opportunities for metal roofing in the next several years, now is the time for contractors to consider their options and the success they might find with companies like Central States Manufacturing on their side.  

Watch the full conversation to learn more about the offerings from Central States Manufacturing and what metal can do for your business!

Central States continues its commitment to providing durable, cost-effective solutions that help customers enhance security, extend product life and reduce long-term maintenance.

Central States Inc., a leader in metal construction materials and services for a wide variety of industries, including self-storage, has launched a new Sentry self-storage combo latch, designed to deliver superior flexibility, durability and security for self-storage applications.

“With the Sentry self-storage combo latch, our goal was to raise the standard,” said Andrew Wilson, chief engineering and innovation officer at Central States. “By offering a stainless-steel option manufactured in the United States, in addition to the typical zinc option, we’re delivering a latch that’s stronger, far more corrosion-resistant and built to last in real-world environments. The added versatility and security features give operators flexibility today and confidence for the future.”

The Sentry latch was engineered with versatility in mind. The design enables operators to use pad locks or cylinder locks on the same apparatus, or transition to a keyed bezel lock without the need to replace the latch, providing flexibility as security needs evolve.

For enhanced durability, the new combo latch is manufactured in not only a yellow zinc option, but also a stainless-steel option for significantly higher mechanical strength and corrosion resistance than traditional zinc latches. Stainless steel construction is tested to last three to five times longer than zinc alloy and is more resistant to corrosion in humid or salt-exposed environments.

Additionally, the latch tongue is compatible with magnetic locking systems and security technologies, while a 90-degree tongue angle adds an extra layer of protection against forced entry.

With the introduction of the Sentry self-storage latch and combo latch, Central States continues its commitment to providing durable, cost-effective solutions that help customers enhance security, extend product life and reduce long-term maintenance. The new latch is available to order now on the full line of Sentry doors, including 6500 roll-up, 7500 roll-up and swing and locker doors. 

To see the new combo latch in person, visit Central States’ booths at the Self Storage Association National Spring Conference March 18-19, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas, and the Inside Self Storage World Expo April 8-9, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada or request more information on the Sentry doors here.

For more information on the entire Sentry line of products and accessories, please visit our website at centralstatesco.com.

About Central States

Central States, Inc. (www.centralstatesco.com) is a 100% employee-owned company founded in 1988. With more than 1,400 employee-owners and 13 manufacturing facilities across the United States, Central States serves over 6,000 commercial, architectural, post-frame and residential customers through three operating business units – Central States Manufacturing, a nationwide manufacturer of metal roofing, siding, walls, doors and other components, Central States Building Works, an allinclusive solution for material-only metal building package solutions, including selfstorage and PEMB and Elevate Structures, a leader in mid-rise, multi-story construction and the developers of the proprietary Alpha Framing System™.