What is the Butler Difference?

For over a century, Butler has been at the forefront of the industry, setting the gold standard for metal buildings. But what exactly makes them stand out? Let's dive into the history and unique qualities of Butler to understand the Butler Difference.

Brief History:

Butler was founded in 1901 in Kansas City, Missouri - Three gentlemen (Emanuel Norquist and brothers Charles and Newton Butler) sought out with the goal of building a better product. Over the years, Butler has transformed from a modest agricultural product business into a global innovator for metal buildings. In this time, Butler has held over 50 patents and has cemented itself as the industry leader.

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Unrelenting Dedication to Build the Best Products:

In 1959 Butler made a paradigm shift, opening their Research & Development Center. This facility has allowed for great innovation as well as real testing rather than speculation. This is especially important considering Butler’s top-tier warranties such as their 25-year warranty for panel finish protection and weather-tightness. This would be a risky warranty if they didn’t have the confidence built from extreme testing. Let’s dig into some of the testing Butler does in their R&D facility:

Real Data - Not Theoretical:

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Butler Guarded Hot Box

Butler's Guarded Hot Box is a state-of-the-art testing unit that can accommodate 8' x 10' roof or wall sections fitted with up to 300 sensors to accurately measure temperature, humidity, and airflow. These tests are run over the course of 3 days. Testing real environmental data, not theoretical data, like most manufacturers, allows Butler to offer the energy efficiency to customers that they promise.

Hands-On Approach: The R&D Center doubles as a training ground. Here, Butler engineers and technicians build and test small-scale models, enhancing their understanding and skills in creating superior products.

Structural Integrity Testing: The Center is equipped with a structural test bay, where Butler can simulate various conditions like snow and wind. This testing uses full loads, ensuring the strength and safety of Butler buildings.

Color-Pigment Technology: 

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Butler tests their paints both for longevity and resistance to chalking, as well as energy efficiency. An example of this is the Solar Green created by Butler which is cooler than the traditional Hunter Green panel by 16 degrees. This innovative approach reduces heat absorption, showcasing the commitment to energy-efficient designs. Additionally, Butler performs 1000-hour paint tests simulating 15 - 20 year sunlight & dew as well as real-time tests to validate 25+ year paint performance.

Advanced Sealant Testing: Butler focuses on creating sealants that offer superior performance, even experimenting with different compositions to achieve the best results.

Outdoor Weathering Lab: Butler’s outdoor lab provides testing of the long-term effects of weather on our materials, ensuring they stand the test of time.

Butler Manufacturing's R&D Center is more than just a facility; it's a testament to Butler’s commitment to innovation, quality, and sustainability. By constantly pushing the boundaries, Butler ensures that their products are not only effective but also contribute to a better, more sustainable future in building technology.

The Butler Difference

For a company to last over 100 years, it’s not enough to have the best product, you have to go above and beyond. It's Butler’s commitment to excellence at every step, from the drawing board to the final construction; it’s attention to every detail that has made the difference.

  • Innovative Designs: Butler is always thinking ahead. Holding over 50 patents including the the industry’s first standing seam roofing system. They use the latest technology to design buildings that aren't just strong but also smart. They focus on designs that save energy, are easy to maintain, and stand the test of time.
  • Quality Materials: The choice is in the data. Butler puts every product through the wringer - They cannot compromise on quality because their warranty and reputation stands behind everything. From the metal to the paint to even the sealants, everything must pass the Butler test.
  • Custom Solutions: Butler understands there is no one-size-fits-all with business and offers personalized solutions. Whether it’s a warehouse, an airplane hangar, a school, or a small shop, they tailor their buildings to meet specific needs.
  • Expertise and Experience: With over a century in the business, they know what they're doing. This experience translates into buildings that are expertly designed and constructed.
  • Customer Focus: Butler believes in listening to their customers. They take feedback seriously and continuously improve their products and services.
  • Sustainability: They are committed to the environment. Butler buildings are designed to be energy-efficient, reducing the carbon footprint. This is achieved through the wall and roofing systems’ efficient insulation and even finding ways to reduce energy consumption with unique products like their SunLite Strip daylight system.

Butler Manufacturing isn’t just another metal building company. They are a century-old institution that represents quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. The Butler Difference is about creating buildings that stand the test of time, both in structure and in style, and knowing that every customer can rest easy knowing they are getting the best product and service. It’s about understanding the needs of the present while being mindful of the future. That’s why, when you see a Butler building, you are seeing an investment in headspace.

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Vintage Butler Flyer

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