When it comes to a commercial project involving sheet metal, accurate sizing can save significant funds and time. Too much of the material results in capital waste, and not enough slows down production as technicians have to reorder and wait for supplies to arrive. This is where a professional metal supplier can provide reassurance that you’re getting the exact dimensions. Here are the key factors to keep in mind when putting in an order for sheet metal.

How to Determine the Sheet Metal Size You Need

1. Thickness

When sheet metal is cut, its thickness is one of the guiding forces behind what size is needed. Commercial metal suppliers measure in leaf, foil, and plate. Leaf and foil are the thinnest sheets available, while plates have a thickness of 0.25” or more. 

To ensure accurate cuts that won’t produce waste, a uniform thickness must be maintained. This measurement is also important because more work and time are typically required for thicker cuts. 

2. Weight

Sheet metal’s weight is measured by pounds per square foot. This calculation determines the exact weight of each sheet, so knowing the precise weight measurement is just as essential as assessing the thickness. The best commercial suppliers use state-of-the-art equipment to ensure accurate weight amounts for all types of construction and metalworking projects.

3. Gauge

The gauge is similar to the thickness level, as it calculates sheet metal’s horizontal dimensions. The larger the gauge, the thinner the sheet will be. Smaller gauge numbers indicate a thicker sheet. If you’re unsure, a professional metal supplier has the technology and equipment to pinpoint the precise gauge needed for your project. 

4. Standard vs. Custom Needs

Sheet metal comes in a range of industry-standard sizes. 36” x 96” and 48” x 144” are some of the most common specifications. The size specs will typically depend on the type of project and whether fabrication can proceed using standard sizes. For example, roll-forming sheet metal and laser cutting may be less expensive if standard sizes are used. 

When you need sheet metal, it's important to partner with a reliable metal supplier. American Metal Supply in Louisville, KY, eliminates the guesswork so that you’ll receive accurate and cost-efficient orders to your exact size specifications. Serving Cincinnati, OH as well, the licensed distributor is equipped to handle a wide variety of processing projects. Their in-house operation is second to none, and through strategic partner networks, they have the systems in place to produce fast, efficient, and affordable sheet metal orders. Call the region’s premier metal supplier at (502) 634-4321 for more information. Visit them online for additional details on the company’s processing procedures.