By Jesse Sanchez. 

Composite insulation solutions combine thermal performance, a nailable substrate and moisture-management features for steep-slope applications. 

Steep-slope roofing systems must address several performance demands at once, including thermal efficiency, ventilation, fastening and long-term durability. Hunter Panels offers two composite insulation products designed for these assemblies: H-Shield® NB and Cool-Vent™. Steep-slope roofs generally range from 3:12 to 12:12. Within these systems, insulation may need to provide a stable nailable surface, resist wind uplift, manage moisture and help maintain consistent roof temperatures. Improper insulation or ventilation can contribute to ice dams, shortened shingle life and moisture-related failures. 

H-Shield NB combines a closed-cell polyisocyanurate insulation core with an oriented strand board (OSB) or plywood substrate. The insulation provides thermal resistance, while the wood surface supports finished roofing materials such as shingles and standing seam metal systems. The panels can be used in new construction and reroofing applications where continuous insulation above the structural deck is desired. 

Cool-Vent is designed to add ventilation to steep-slope assemblies. The panel combines rigid polyiso insulation with a plywood or OSB substrate and integrated spacers that create an airspace beneath the roof covering. This space supports airflow from the eave to the ridge, helping regulate roof surface temperatures. 

Cool-Vent is intended for roof slopes of 3:12 or greater and is always mechanically fastened. Fastening requirements for both systems depend on factors including roof pitch, deck type, wind speed, snow load and building risk category. 

For insulation assemblies thicker than 3.5 inches, Hunter Panels recommends a two-layer system with staggered joints to reduce thermal loss and limit condensation risk. Both products also feature rabbeted wood substrates on all four sides to support thermal continuity while allowing for wood movement. 

Learn more about Hunter Panels’ steep-slope roofing solutions and published installation requirements!

By The Coffee Shops™. 

Proper slope design helps improve drainage, energy efficiency and long-term roof performance. 

In the article “Understanding the Maximum Slope of Commercial Roofing Systems With Polyiso Insulation Products,” Hunter Panels highlights how roof slope design impacts drainage, system performance and long-term durability in commercial roofing applications. For roofing contractors, consultants and specifiers, understanding the relationship between slope and polyiso insulation is critical to meeting code requirements while improving building performance. 

According to Hunter Panels, commercial roofing systems are commonly designed with low-slope configurations, but “low-slope” does not mean flat. Industry standards and building codes typically require positive drainage to help prevent ponding water, which can shorten roof lifespan and increase the risk of leaks and structural issues. Tapered polyiso insulation systems play a major role in creating that drainage while also delivering thermal efficiency. 

The article explains that tapered polyiso insulation can be manufactured in a variety of slopes, including 1/8-inch, 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch per foot, allowing contractors to tailor systems based on project conditions and code requirements. While 1/4-inch-per-foot slope is often considered the industry standard for new construction, retrofit projects may require different approaches because of parapet heights, rooftop equipment or existing structural limitations. 

Hunter Panels also emphasizes that proper slope planning is about more than drainage alone. Tapered insulation systems can help improve energy efficiency, reduce long-term maintenance concerns and support more consistent membrane performance over time. Polyiso insulation remains one of the most widely used insulation materials in commercial roofing because of its strong thermal performance and compatibility with multiple roofing assemblies. 

The article further notes that tapered systems can incorporate pre-manufactured sumps, hips and valleys to simplify installation and improve water management around drains and transitions. These design elements can reduce field fabrication time while helping crews maintain consistent drainage patterns across the roof system. 

For trade professionals, understanding how slope design interacts with insulation thickness, drainage requirements and system performance is increasingly important as building codes and energy standards continue to evolve. 

Read the full article on Hunter Panels’ blog to learn more about polyiso insulation!

By Jenny Yu. 

Hunter Panels highlights the power of tapered insulation on low-slope roofs. 

At the 2026 International Roofing Expo, Karen Edwards of The Coffee Shops™ spoke with Tim Rood, manager of tapered design for Hunter Panels, about the critical role tapered insulation plays in ensuring proper drainage and long-term roof performance.  

Tim, who manages a nationwide team of designers, admitted that it can be difficult to explain what tapered systems are. So, Hunter Panels got creative. “It’s kind of like a puzzle on a roof and it moves water to the drains,” he said, demonstrating with an actual puzzle specifically designed to illustrate how tapered works to industry professionals and laypeople alike. “Each of these pieces is one taper panel, and they fit together to make the water drain. Every year we're coming up with new ways to explain it.”  

Despite the complex nature of tapered systems, Hunter Panels has seen steady demand, indicating the importance of this offering. “We did about 13,000 quotes last year,” Tim shared. “Every type of roof you can imagine, from drawings on a napkin to 700-page blueprints. We’ve seen it all.” 

For those interested in tapered design but unsure of where to start, Hunter Panels offers plenty of options for education and customer support, free of charge. “We have the ability to meet with people, do hands-on training or online webinars,” Tim said. “We also put out a series of YouTube videos on the basics of tapered: how to build a cricket, how to do sumps, etc.” Hunter Panels’ website also has data sheets, blog posts and a place to request a quote.   

For contractors navigating drainage challenges on flat roofs, Hunter Panels emphasizes that tapered insulation is a key tool for performance and efficiency. 

Watch the full interview to see Tim’s tapered puzzle in action and to learn more about how Hunter Panels is leading the charge for tapered design.

By Jesse Sanchez. 

How federal infrastructure rules affect material sourcing and compliance across publicly funded projects. 

Federal infrastructure spending comes with clear guidelines designed to strengthen domestic manufacturing and project accountability. These guidelines are also very clear when it comes to where construction materials are made. These requirements are well known to companies like Hunter Panels, who must navigate them regularly. For contractors, manufacturers and specifiers working on publicly funded projects, understanding those requirements is essential to staying compliant and avoiding costly delays. 

The Build America, Buy America Act sets clear expectations for material sourcing on covered infrastructure projects. Under the law, all iron, steel, manufactured products and construction materials used in qualifying projects must be produced in the United States. The requirements apply broadly across federally funded infrastructure, including highways, bridges, public transit and other public works supported by federal grants or contracts. 

The act was signed into law in 2021 as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which became law on November 15, 2021. Its purpose is to strengthen domestic manufacturing, support job creation and reinforce the U.S. supply chain by ensuring federal investment circulates within the American economy. 

While the intent is firm, the law does allow for flexibility in specific circumstances. Waivers may be granted when materials are not available domestically in sufficient quantities, when products are not produced in the United States at a satisfactory quality or when using American-made materials would significantly increase project costs. These provisions are designed to balance economic goals with practical realities in the field. 

For manufacturers, certification plays a key role in helping project teams meet compliance requirements. Hunter Panels reports that its Hunter Panels and Hunter Xci construction materials are manufactured in the United States, making them compliant with the Build America, Buy America Act, Pub. L. No. 117-58.  

As federal infrastructure investment continues to flow, Build America, Buy America remains a central consideration in material selection and project planning. Understanding how the law applies and which products meet its requirements helps contractors and designers move forward with greater confidence in publicly funded work. 

Learn more about what the Build America, Buy America Act means for construction materials and how its requirements affect sourcing, compliance and planning on federally funded projects!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Learn how extended panel layouts in tapered polyiso systems can lower adhesive use, reduce material handling and improve overall installation efficiency. 

Designing a tapered roof system with Hunter Panels requires more than meeting slope requirements, it demands a careful balance between material expense and labor efficiency. Specialty components such as prefabricated target sumps, hips, valleys and extended panel profiles can influence that balance, but the true impact depends on how the tapered layout is configured. 

Adhesive is one of the most significant cost drivers in a multi-layer tapered system. The more insulation layers required to achieve slope, the more adhesive is needed to secure them. In a standard 1/8-inch taper profile with a four-panel repeat across a 64-foot run, layers of 2-inch flat insulation are stacked at each repeat to build elevation. This approach results in 40 panels of application, increasing both adhesive usage and installation time. On a roof measuring 64’x64’ this approach would result in 103 applied square and four applications of adhesive 

Reconfiguring the same 64-foot run with extended panels changes the equation. By increasing the panel repeat, the design reduces the number of required insulation layers, bringing the total application down to 24 panels and immediately lowering adhesive demand. The resulting final panel reflects 1 layer of 4” fill and the “FF” panel needing to be adhered. On a roof measuring 64’x64’, the extended panels would result in 82 applied square and two applications of adhesive. 

While this example highlights a 1/8-inch profile, extended panels are also available in 3/16-inch, 1/4inch, 3/8inch and ½-inch slopes, offering flexibility across a range of tapered system designs. 

Learn more about how extended tapered polyiso panels can reduce adhesive consumption, lower labor demands and improve overall tapered roof system efficiency! 

By Hunter Panels. 

Understanding ASTM-aligned thickness verification can strengthen contractor confidence in product performance and jobsite quality. 

Precise insulation measurements are critical to project accuracy and Hunter Panels is helping contractors approach the methods of calculation with clarity and confidence. As rigid polyiso continues to play a central role in energy-efficient roof assemblies, knowing how to verify thickness correctly in accordance with ASTM C1289 safeguards against guesswork and supports quality control on the job. That attention to detail reflects positively on both the manufacturer and the installer, reinforcing trust in the product while ensuring specifications are met with professionalism and accuracy. 

How to measure polyiso thickness (ASTM C1289 method) 

1 – Cut the board properly

Cut the board down the middle of the 4-foot dimension so you end up with two pieces measuring 2 ft × 8 ft. 

• Avoid using a razor knife for measurement cuts. 
• A clean, smooth cut is necessary to expose a true cross-section of the foam. 
• A caliper is the preferred measuring tool to ensure accuracy. 

2 – Take six (6) thickness measurements

ASTM C1289 requires multiple measurements to account for natural surface variation. Take readings as follows: 

• Start at least 1–2 inches in from the edge (never on the outer edge). 
• Take measurements approximately every 2 feet along the board. 
• Ensure one measurement is taken at the center of the board. 
• This results in six total measurements. 

3 – Calculate the average thickness

After collecting all six readings: 

• Add all measurements together 
• Divide by six to obtain the average 
• Compare the calculated average to the manufacturer’s stated thickness 

4 – Verify ASTM tolerance compliance

The final average must fall within ±1/8 inch of the labeled product thickness to meet ASTM C1289 requirements. 

In summary, measuring polyiso insulation in accordance with ASTM C1289 is straightforward when you use the correct tools, follow consistent sampling procedures and take measurements in the right locations. By cutting a clean sample, taking six properly spaced measurements and calculating an accurate average, you can confidently verify that the insulation meets ASTM standards and project specifications. 

Original article source: Hunter Panels

By Hunter Panels. 

A closer look at why American-made materials matter now more than ever. 

The Build America, Buy America Act has become a rallying point for companies like Hunter Panels, which stands firmly behind its U.S. manufacturing roots and the strength of the domestic supply chain. As federal infrastructure dollars surge into communities nationwide, the push for American-made materials is shaping not only how projects are built, but how manufacturers step up to meet a new era of demand. 

In 2021, the Build America, Buy America Act was signed into law. It was incorporated into the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), signed into law on November 15, 2021. 

The act aimed to boost domestic manufacturing, create jobs and strengthen the U.S. supply chain by mandating the use of American-made materials. 

There are provisions for waivers if the materials are not available domestically in sufficient quantities, are not produced in the U.S. in a satisfactory quality or if using American-made products would increase the cost of the project by a significant amount. 

Overall, the Build America, Buy America Act is designed to ensure that federal infrastructure investments support domestic production and contribute to the U.S. economy by requiring that federally funded projects utilize American-made materials and products. 

Hunter Panels is proud to certify that Hunter Panels and Hunter Xci construction materials are manufactured in the United States of America. Therefore, our products comply with the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act, Pub. L. No 117-58. 

Original article source: Hunter Panels

By Hunter Panels. 

From selecting the correct SIP fastener to dialing in drill speeds, understanding the specifics can make all the difference in your Xci Ply installation.  

When it comes to high-performance polyiso panels, Hunter Panels doesn't just deliver product, they deliver answers. Whether you're securing Xci Ply, Xci Ply Class A or Xci NB, the right fastening approach is critical to performance, speed and long-term durability. To help streamline your next install, we've compiled the most frequently asked questions about SIP fasteners and how to use them effectively across different base wall types. 

Question:  

Which style of SIP fastener is needed? 

Answer:  

Hunter Panels offers multiple styles of SIP fasteners for attachment of Xci Ply, Xci Ply Class A and Xci NB, depending on the base wall type. Plates are not required with these fasteners. 

Question: 

What length of fastener is needed? 

Answer: 

Minimum penetrations vary from a few threads up to 2.0″ depending on the fastener and base wall. Please reference DrJ TER 2102-05 or contact Hunter Technical for more info. 

Question: 

How many fasteners are needed? 

Answer: 

The fastening pattern is determined by several factors including stud spacing, Xci panel thickness and the weight of the cladding system. Use DrJ TER 2102-05 to determine the correct pattern. The technical team at Hunter Panels is available to assist with this. 

Question: 

Do the fasteners countersink? 

Answer: 

No, the fasteners are not meant to countersink. The head should rest on the surface of the panel. 

Question: 

What tools are used to install these fasteners? 

Answer: 

Typically, a screw gun is used to install these fasteners. Impact drivers are not recommended for concrete and CMU applications. SIP fasteners should not be struck with a hammer during installation. 

Drill speed recommendations: 

Speed up installation by going slower for steel, concrete and CMU applications. Higher drill speeds create excess heat from friction, which can cause fasteners to soften and lose their edge.  

For SIP/SD and SIP/SD-PT fasteners going into light gauge steel: 1500 – 2000 RPM  

For SIP/SD and SIP/SD-PT fastener going into concrete/ CMU: 900 – 1500 RPM  

For SIP/HD and SIP/HD-PT fasteners going into heavy gauge steel: 900 – 1500 RPM 

Original article and photo source: Hunter Panels

By Hunter Panels. 

The choice of insulation impacts performance, safety, and cost for years to come. 

When it comes to commercial roofing, insulation plays a critical role in controlling energy costs, enhancing fire safety, speed of installation, and maximizing long-term ROI. However, not all insulation options are the same. Expanded Polystyrene (EPS) is a lightweight, rigid, thermoplastic insulation made from closed-cell foam. Polyisocyanurate (Polyiso) is also a closed-cell foam board, but it’s a thermoset material with a high-performance foam core sandwiched between two facers. Here at Hunter Panels, we want to help drive this convTersation forward with high-efficiency solutions built for today’s demands. Keep reading to understand the advantages and limitations of these two options and which option professionals focused on performance and value are choosing. 

Advantages of polyisocyanurate over expanded polystyrene: 

Long-term thermal resistance (LTTR) 
Long-Term Thermal Resistance (LTTR) is a scientifically supported method to calculate the 15-year, time-weighted average R-value of closed-cell insulation products. Polyiso insulation has a high R-value per inch (5.7) compared to other insulation products on the market. EPS insulation’s R-value varies depending on the density of the foam and can range from 4 to 5. This performance characteristic allows polyiso insulation to deliver greater energy savings potential in thinner product thicknesses, which can be advantageous in height-restricted areas. 

Flexibility in roofing assemblies 
Polyiso insulation is compatible with most types of cladding and roofing materials, such as metal, brick, stone, wood, vinyl, asphalt shingles, etc. It can be attached with adhesives, mechanical fasteners or hot mopping. Polyiso is also lightweight and easy to cut and install. In comparison, EPS is not compatible with some types of cladding and roofing materials, such as adhesives, hot mopping or torch-down roofing, without the use of slip sheets or additional cover boards. It can be damaged by high temperatures or solvents and requires a protective layer or coating to prevent UV degradation. EPS can also be molded into different shapes and sizes to fit various design needs. 

Fire resistance 
Polyiso insulation is a thermoset material that does not melt or drip when exposed to flame (ASTM E84). In comparison, EPS is less fire-resistant; it melts and drips when exposed to high heat, which can spread the fire and create toxic fumes. Polyiso also offers a direct-to-deck attachment option for steel deck roofs (FM 4450/UL 1256). 

Environmental and other attributes 
Polyiso insulation contains blowing agents with zero Ozone Depletion Potential (ODP) and low Global Warming Potential (GWP), reducing buildings’ energy use and associated greenhouse gas emissions. It is also recyclable through reuse where permitted and contains recycled content, which varies by product. While EPS can also contain recycled content, polyiso insulation’s high thermal efficiency results in energy savings potential equal to 47 times the product’s embodied energy. 

In conclusion, the choice of insulation material for a commercial roof system is a critical decision that directly impacts the building’s performance, energy efficiency and overall value. Polyiso insulation is the superior choice due to its exceptional thermal efficiency, fire resistance, ease of installation, environmental sustainability and long-term cost savings. Please see the links below from the Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association (PIMA) for unbiased manufacturer resources.[i] 

[i]  https://www.polyiso.org/

Original article and photo source: Hunter Panels

By Hunter Panels. 

Behind every high-performance wall is a code-compliant design. 

When you see a wall packed with polyiso foam insulation from manufacturers like Hunter Panels, you're looking at more than just energy efficiency, you're looking at a component that was carefully crafted for code compliance. At the center of that compliance is ASTM C1289, a standard that manufacturers can’t ignore and most professionals should understand. But unless you're deep in the construction world, the types, classes and grades of polyiso foam might as well be alphabet soup. Here's what those letters and numbers really mean and why they matter on every job site. 

Type 

Refers to the facer material that is bonded to the foam. Below is a list of common types of facers used in the commercial wall market. 

Type, description 

• I, Foil Facer 
• II, Glass Mat Faced 
• V, Plywood or OSB on one side, Fibrous Felt or Glass Mat on the other side. 

Class for type I materials 

For foil faced polyiso the “Class” designation refers to whether or not the foam core is glass fiber reinforced. 

Class, description 

• 1, Non-Reinforced Foam Core 
• 2, Glass Fiber Reinforced Foam Core or Non-Reinforced Foam Core 

Class for type II materials 

For glass mat faced polyiso the “Class” designation refers to the material used in conjunction with the glass mat. Currently, all Type II polyiso products for commercial wall applications fall into the Class 2 category. 

Class, description 

• 1, Glass Fiber Reinforced Felt Mat both sides 
• 2, Polymer Bonded Glass Fiber Mat both sides, Coated Glass 
• 3, Glass Mat Only both sides 

Grade 

Refers to the product’s compressive strength for permeable faced products. Compressive strength is reported in terms of PSI. Several polyiso products are available in multiple grades 

Grade, description 

• 1, 16psi min 
• 2, 20psi min (Standard for most Hunter Xci products) 
• 3, 25psi min 

Original article and photo source: Hunter Panels