Zinc Panel – One of the Most Suitable / Preferred Metals for Building Exteriors

While considering design choices for your wall panel system, what is the first metal that you think of? Are steel and aluminium your primary options, or are you more inclined towards exotic metals like copper or stainless steel? What was your last thought on zinc? Its manufacturability and weathering resistance are just a few of the advantages of this beautiful metal that drives the growing popularity of zinc for dry cladding construction.

Why is zinc panel a preferred metal for building exteriors?

Beauty and Durability

Zinc's physical properties make it a unique and versatile material On the other hand, zinc can tolerate continued corrosion because of a particular reaction when zinc is exposed to the moisture and carbon dioxide present in our atmosphere, a protective layer of zinc carbonate forms on its surface that prevents the process of corrosion experienced by steel. The resulting coating of zinc-carbonate produces a perfect patina for a highly attractive look. These properties make it a material of choice over ACP & Aluminium cladding.

Clean and Green

For other reasons too, zinc is a very environmentally friendly metal. It is a 100 per cent recyclable metal usable regularly. Zinc is also a fungi stat, an agent that prevents mould, mildew and fungal reproduction. This will significantly reduce the risk of moss or even black mould growing on a building's exterior in areas in contact with the metal. Ironically, the zinc run-off from the rainwater is safe, unlike the run-off from other metals like copper, a fungicide. So zinc may be used in areas where vegetation is present, unlike copper and other metals, because it does not harm or hinder plant production.

Manufacturability

Zinc is a very soft and easily malleable metal easily formed into desired shapes. This function enables the use of zinc for a large variety of special architectural applications. It should, however, be remembered that when exposed to temperatures below 50 F, zinc is even more brittle. Zinc formation at such low temperatures can cause it to break very quickly. This is therefore not recommendable that aluminium composite panel or trim components be broken, shaped or mounted in cold weather. Also mechanically seaming a standing seam roof at freezing temperatures can cause cracking, fracturing or splitting of the seam cap or seam legs. When the installer is uncertain about the sun, it is recommended that the zinc material's surface temperature be measured using an infrared thermometer to ensure it is above 50 F.

Galvanic Corrosion

Galvanic corrosion needs to be addressed when developing applications for zinc panels or trimmings. Galvanic corrosion occurs when in the presence of an aqueous solution, two dissimilar metals with high electrical potential are in contact with one another. It is evident that bare zinc should not be placed into contact with metals such as copper, non-galvanized, or unprotected iron. However, with minimal galvanic reaction, zinc can meet aluminium cladding, and galvanized steel.

Zinc is an aesthetically appealing, long-lasting, and useful alternative to building dry cladding when adequately designed and sufficient measures are taken to ensure its surroundings are safe. So few metals, practical for the construction of houses, provide such an enticing variety of features on the exteriors, making zinc a popular choice for many designers. The architectural appeal is growing, as more designers understand the advantages of this beautiful product. So if you are an owner, designer or contractor, think zinc the next time you create an amazing exterior of your home!