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Sheet Metal 101
The union sheet metal industry is responsible for the fabrication, assembly, installation, and repair of sheet metal products and equipment, such as ducts, control boxes, drainpipes, and furnace casings. Sheet metal workers are unique compared to other trades because they are the only trade that takes the raw material and fabricates the architectural pieces, ductwork, and HVAC systems they install. The role requires full knowledge of the sheet metal lifecycle, from raw materials and fabrication to installation, testing, and balancing. Over 150,000 workers are employed in our space, and their talents are developed and honed during a structured apprenticeship program that includes classroom instruction and on-the-job training to develop the necessary skills.
SMACNA represents over 3,500 construction corporations engaged in industrial, commercial, public, residential, architectural, and specialty sheet metal construction throughout the United States, Canada, and other countries. Our members specialize in complex jobs for each market sector. Primary contractors, architects, and property owners lean on signatory contractors such as the ones represented by SMACNA due to their consistent ability to deliver projects that are on-time, on-budget and of superior overall quality when compared to their non-signatory competitors.
What to Know About the Sheet Metal Industry
Commercial HVAC
Sheet metal contractors within the commercial sector are responsible for installing HVAC systems, as well as ensuring spaces are comfortable and safe for use.
Architectural
Architects and real estate owners rely on SMACNA architectural contractors to collaborate on designs and to make sure those designs can be constructed to the design concepts.
Industrial
Sheet metal contractors working in the industrial sector work on a wide variety of projects ranging from custom installations to long-term maintenance and repairs for industrial clients.
Residential
SMACNA residential members provide professional residential and light commercial work to property owners and management companies.
Testing & Balancing
SMACNA contractors who perform HVAC testing, adjusting, and balancing are usually referred to as TAB contractors. They provide specialized services such as air and hydronic measurements on HVAC systems.
FEATURED STANDARDS
SMACNA standards and manuals address all facets of the sheet metal and HVAC industry
– including duct construction and installation, indoor air quality, energy recovery,
roofing and architectural sheet metal, welding, and commissioning.
SMACNews
Want to read the latest industry news? SMACNews, SMACNA’s flagship magazine, features industry trends and innovative projects that highlight member ingenuity and expertise.
Read the Latest Issue