BREA, CA, September 27, 2005 -- Gerard Roofing Technologies, a division of Metals USA (NASDAQ: MUSA), received several calls from thankful customers whose homes survived winds up to 175 mph and escaped the vast degree of destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina.

Dennis Ellis of Gulf Shore, AL, had his Gerard stone-coated metal roof installed eight years ago on his home in the Laguna Keys development in Gulf Shore. Since then, his home has withstood three hurricanes; Dennis, Ivan, whose winds reached speeds of 134 mph and now Hurricane Katrina.

Forced to evacuate his home, not knowing what, if anything, he would be returning to, Ellis was relieved to find his home still standing and in good condition. “I did a lot better than most of my neighbors and I credit the Gerard Roof for that. Most houses in the neighborhood suffered severe damage to both their interiors and exteriors. There were some other homes with Gerard Roofs in the area, and to my knowledge, they held up well.” According to Ron Anderson of Gerard Roofing Technologies, “Gerard has received several calls from Katrina victims whose homes are still standing thanks to their roofs.”

Ellis initially chose his roof for its “looks and safety,” not fully realizing the extent to which he would benefit. Gerard’s interlocking panels and batten-mounting system offers minimal movement and extraordinary resistance to wind uplift. The tiles have been tested in 120 mph winds and unlike asphalt and concrete, stone-coated metal roofs cannot be stripped off.

“This is why Gerard completely backs up its claims with a separate wind warranty. Other manufacturers may refer to wind-driven rain tests but they remain silent with regard to warranty protection. They categorize "wind" as an "Act of God" and do not cover any damage that it causes,” said Anderson.

Besides wind, Gerard Roofs are known for their high degree of resistance to fire, hail, snow and earthquakes, making them not only conducive for all environments, but potentially an enormous money saver when Mother Nature strikes. Few states offer reduced insurance premiums to install a stone-coated metal roof to their home or building. According to Ellis, “Given the way these roofs withstand hurricanes, it only makes sense that insurance companies would offer discounts in their premiums to those that install [a Gerard Roof]."

About Metals USA, Inc.
Metals USA provides a wide range of products and services in the heavy carbon steel, flat-rolled steel, specialty metals, and building products markets. For more information, visit the company's website at www.metalsusa.com. The information contained in this release is limited and the Company encourages interested parties to read the Company's Form 10-K and 10-Qs which are on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission for more complete information. Additionally, copies of the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission together with press releases and other information investors may find of benefit can be found at the Company's website at www.metalsusa.com. To visit Gerard Roofing Technologies go to www.gerardusa.com.