Butler MR-24, CMR-24, and VSR-II Roofs – Compatible Fall Protection

Butler MR-24, CMR-24, and VSR-II Roofs – Compatible Fall Protection

Posted by Howie Scarboro - CEO Fall Protection Distributors, LLC on Mar 27th 2024

Butler Mfg metal roofing logo

Specialized Fall Protection Devices for Butler Standing Seam Systems

In the dynamic world of metal roofing, the marriage of advanced roofing technology with top-tier fall protection equipment is not just a matter of convenience; it’s a non-negotiable standard for safety and efficiency. Butler’s exemplary roofing panels at the heart of this union - the MR-24, CMR-24, and VSR II - are each a pinnacle of innovation, durability, and aesthetic appeal. What sets these panels apart, however, is their 100% compatibility with four cutting-edge fall protection products: SSRA 1 Seam Anchors, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks,  SSRA3 Anchor Plates, and Ridge Pro Steep Assist Ridge Anchors. Let’s dive into each Butler panel’s unique features and benefits, unraveling how our specialized fall protection solutions complement and enhance the safety features inherent in these roofing systems.

Our journey navigates through the intricacies of these panels, showcasing the distinct characteristics that make them industry leaders. From the MR-24’s monolithic steel surface and 360-degree Pittsburgh double-lock seam to the CMR-24’s combination of strength and energy efficiency and the VSR II’s adaptability to complex roof geometries, each panel is a testament to Butler’s commitment to excellence. We will also explain how each Butler panel is compatible with specialized fall protection products, ensuring that workers can perform their tasks safely and confidently.

Butler MR-24 and CMR-24 Roof Systems

Butler MR-24 metal roofing panel profile.  Butler MR-24 standing seam metal roof panel profile.

Butler MR-24 and CMR-24 panel images courtesy of  Butler Mfg.  

The Butler MR-24 and CMR-24 roof systems are a testament to over five decades of roofing excellence. Since their inception in 1969, these systems have led the industry as the first and finest standing-seam metal roof systems, boasting over 50 years of weathertight performance. Their impressive global footprint of over 3.2 billion square feet installed worldwide demonstrates their widespread acceptance and versatility in various applications, including retrofit and re-roofing projects.

Monolithic Steel Surface and Temperature-Responsive Design

The MR-24 and CMR-24 panels are a singular steel covering, providing unparalleled protection across entire buildings. Both seams feature a 2.75” seam height, a unique trapezoidal lower section, and a lap seam on top. This feature, coupled with the 360-degree Pittsburgh double-lock seam, with an additional 180-degree field-rolled, guarantees superior performance and protection against the elements. Factory-punched panels and structural components contribute to precise alignment and installation accuracy.

Safety, Compliance, and Fall Protection Compatibility

MR-24 and CMR-24 comply with stringent safety standards, including a UL Class 90 wind uplift rating, U.S. Army Corps testing, FM Global approval, and Miami-Dade County approval. The MR-24’s seamless surface necessitates specialized fall protection strategies. Both systems are fully compatible with the SSRA 1 Seam Anchors, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, and Ridge Pro Steep Assist Ridge Anchors, ensuring comprehensive worker safety under all conditions.

CMR-24: Enhanced Aesthetics and Energy Efficiency

Building upon the MR-24’s foundation, the CMR-24 incorporates a rigid insulation board and an interior steel liner, enhancing the building’s appearance and energy efficiency. It is ideal for projects requiring the MR-24’s performance, improved energy efficiency, and a polished interior look. The CMR-24 inherits the MR-24’s exclusive panel seaming and clip system, ensuring durability and reliability. Its specially designed bearing plate evenly distributes weight, supporting the structural integrity. At the same time, the customizable insulation board caters to various energy needs. The interior metal liner provides a finished look, enhancing aesthetic and energy performance.

Butler VSR II Roof System

Butler VSR-II standing seam metal roof panel profile.

Butler VSR-II image courtesy of Butler Mfg.

The Butler VSR II roof system is an innovative solution for handling complex roof geometries. This versatility is especially apparent in its ability to simplify flashing designs and fit seamlessly in continuous roof-to-fascia applications. Its adaptability makes it a prime choice for many architectural styles, easily accommodating the most challenging roofing requirements.

Unique Features and Benefits

Panel Dimensions and Aesthetics:

The VSR II panels, at 16 inches in width and made from durable 24-gauge steel, promise longevity and robustness. A noteworthy 2-inch rib height, coupled with subtle longitudinal flutes, adds structural integrity and enhances the building’s visual appeal, contributing to an aesthetically pleasing architectural silhouette.

Safety and Compliance: 

The VSR II roof system has a UL Class 90 wind uplift rating. It has undergone rigorous testing by the U.S. Army Co, and it is available with FM Global approval, assuring its reliability under various environmental conditions.

Long-term Warranties:

The system is backed by weather-tightness warranties extending up to 25 years, signifying a long-term commitment to quality and performance. This level of warranty coverage reflects the system’s trustworthiness and suitability for long-term applications.

Fall Protection Compatibility

When it comes to fall protection, the VSR II roof system is fully compatible with the SSRA 1 Seam Anchors, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks, SSRA3 Anchor Plates, and Ridge Pro Steep Assist Ridge Anchors. These products are designed to work in conjunction with the unique features of the VSR II panels, ensuring that safety is paramount without compromising the system’s integrity.

What Works Best for Butler Standing Seam Panels

SSRA1 Seam Anchors: Fits Nearly All Of Today’s Standing Seam Profiles

SSRA1 Seam Anchor for fall protection on standing seam roofs.

The SSRA1 Seam Anchor is designed to clamp onto approximately 95% of today’s standing seam roof panels, including Butler’s, without penetration, thereby preserving the roof’s integrity and warranty. The SSRA1’s strength, deriving from its six pairs of stainless-steel set screws, is unmatched in the industry, offering a perfect blend of loading strength and ease of installation, with typical setup times averaging around 2 minutes. The SSRA1 Seam Anchor is lightweight, fast to assemble, has no moving body parts, can withstand impact load from any direction, and is ultimate strength tested to 14,500 lbs.

Key Features of the SSRA1 Seam Anchor:

  • Non-penetrating, universal fit compatible with the majority of standing seam panels.
  • Durably constructed from T6-6061 aluminum, ensuring longevity and corrosion resistance.
  • Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, guaranteeing performance and reliability.

Contractors invest in the SSRA1 Seam Anchors because they know they can expand the function of the anchor by adding adapter plates. The two adapter plates mentioned below allow for the deployment of walk boards and horizontal lifelines on standing seam roofs with zero penetrations. No other system in the industry offers this ability.

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks: Versatile and Adaptable

SSRA2 Adjustable Roof JAcks for walk boards on standing seam roofs.

When versatility is critical, the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks are the solution of choice. Compatible with Butler’s roofing systems, they provide a secure platform for walk boards, adjusting seamlessly to various seam profiles. This adaptability is essential on pitched roofs where stable, reliable support is critical.

Highlights of the SSRA2 Adjustable Roof Jacks:

It is designed to adjust to different seam heights, widths, and profiles. Adjustable-height side legs help stabilize the seams without tools.

  • Robust construction for a lifetime of service, even under harsh weather conditions.
  • Suitable for both temporary installations on Butler roofs.

SSRA3 Anchor Plates: The Backbone of Lifeline Systems

SSRA3 Anchor Plates for horizontal lifelines on standing seam roofs.

For comprehensive horizontal lifeline installations on Butler roofs, the  SSRA3 Anchor Plates are ideal. They allow for the secure attachment of lifelines without roof penetration, evenly distributing the load across multiple seams. This minimizes the risk of damage while ensuring worker mobility and safety over large roof areas.

The SSRA3 Anchor Plates are designed to span across multiple seams and fasten down on top of two of the SSRA Seam Anchors. Milled grooves in the plate, all for seam widths from 12” up to 24”. The D-rings on top of the  SSRA3 Anchor Plates become the anchor points for each end of the horizontal lifeline.

Features of the SSRA3 Anchor Plates:

  • Even load distribution to protect the integrity of Butler roof systems.
  • Compatibility with lifelines, allowing two workers on a line for enhanced safety.
  • Simple, secure installation process, suitable for various Butler roofing systems.

Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchors: 100% Tie-Off

Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchor bundle with rope and harness.

The Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchors provide unparalleled safety for Butler roof systems, especially those with steep pitches 6/12-12/12. Their design ensures continuous tie-off from the ladder to the roof, revolutionizing safety standards for challenging roofing tasks.

  • Critical Benefits of Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchors:
  • Continuous safety attachment from the ladder to the peak back to the ladder.
  • User-friendly design, enhancing work efficiency and safety.
  • Versatility in applications, suitable for a wide range of roofing tasks.

Conclusion

In modern construction, where safety intersects with innovation, Butler’s MR-24, CMR-24, and VSR II roofing panels set an exemplary standard. Paired seamlessly with the  SSRA1 Seam Anchors, SSRA2 Adjustable Roof JacksSSRA3 Anchor Plates, and Ridge Pro Steep Assist Anchors, these roofing systems epitomize the pinnacle of safety and efficiency in metal roofing.

Throughout this article, we’ve explored the unique features of these Butler panels — from the MR-24’s monolithic steel surface and temperature-responsive design to the CMR-24’s enhanced energy efficiency and the VSR II’s adaptability to complex roof geometries. Each panel showcases Butler’s commitment to delivering roofing solutions that are durable and aesthetically pleasing and cater to the highest safety standards.

Complementing these advanced panels, the specialized fall protection products —  SSRA1, SSRA2, SSRA3, and Ridge Pro — provide the necessary safeguarding measures crucial for any roofing project. Their non-penetrating design, universal compatibility, and robust construction protect workers from falls and preserve the integrity and warranty of the roofing system, all while ensuring compliance with stringent safety regulations.

As we conclude, the synergy between Butler’s roofing panels and these fall protection solutions represents more than just a combination of products; it symbolizes a commitment to protecting lives and maintaining the highest standards in the roofing industry. For those tasked with installing or maintaining these roofs, this partnership offers peace of mind, knowing that their safety is upheld by the best in the industry.

For additional resources or to discuss your fall protection needs, call us at 863-703-4522 or visit www.StandingSeamRoofAnchor.com