September 21, 2016
September 21, 2016 admin

7 Common Zinc Styles for Building Structures


“Committed to promoting creative applications of zinc.- NedZink

Various zinc styles for metal roof and wall panels provide a timeless appeal with long-term protection for future generations. Apart from its exceptional material properties and appealing beauty, zinc is a natural material with long-term benefits.

Its cladding’s longevity and potential to withstand weathering are only a handful of the advantages boosting zinc interest in architecture.

Zinc, unlike hot-dipped galvanized steel panels, develops a natural patina when exposed to carbon dioxide-rich air. The patina protects the sheet metal from rust, salt, and other natural forces.

Zinc panels can last up to 50 years under the right conditions. They have also been known to last more than 100 years in some parts of Europe.

Depending on the manufacturer, zinc panels come in a variety of sizes, configurations, and finishes. They can be bent or shaped to fit over curves or around obstacles, making them extremely flexible.

Zinc roofs and walls are propelling modern architecture forward. Here are a few of the most popular zinc panel models on the market today:

Zinc Styles for Modern Buildings

1) Interlocking

Interlocking zinc panels are long panels that can be oriented horizontally or vertically. They use a self-supporting tongue and groove attachment system to interlock the panels. Metal clips then secure them to the underlying wood or metal framework.

They are available in sections 10 feet long for vertical installations and 20 feet long for horizontal attachments. They can be built on detached support structures. They are self-supporting, making them ideal for new building and restoration projects.

2) Corrugated

Corrugated zinc panels, which have a traditional sine-wave design, are an affordable cladding option. It brings aesthetic charm to almost every building by alternating areas of shadow and light.

They are available in panel lengths of 9-½’ and widths of 27-⅜” or 37-⅜”, depending on the finish. They are installed on a metal frame over masonry or steel walls horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. They are perfect for exterior wall cladding or interior surfaces.

3) Flat Lock

Flatlock panels are low-profile elongated zinc panels that overlap to produce a virtually flat-looking surface by minimizing the reveal. The panel uses a concealed fastener and clip system that secures the panel on each of the four sides.

Mounting options are limitless in any direction, including horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.
They are available in 10-foot lengths for horizontal installations or 6-foot lengths for vertical installation, both with a 16-inch width.

4) Standing Seam

A single lock or a double lock is possible for standing seam frames. They’re long, horizontal, vertical, or diagonal panels mount horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.

Panel heights are limited to 15 feet for vertical installations, with a 16-inch diameter. Panels are 20’x16″ for horizontal applications and require a sturdy substrate, such as a masonry wall or plywood. Standing seam panels can be used in high wind or snow loads areas. This makes them suitable for both wall cladding and roofs.

5) Cassettes

Cassette panels are pre-formed zinc panels that have either a rectangular or square shape. Panels come in 30″ x30″ or 24″ x 24″ squares and 72″ x24″ or 120″ x24″ rectangles, depending on the finish.

Cassette panels install horizontally or vertically and go directly over plywood or exterior gypsum. Straps or girts are used to hold the fasteners. They use a unique panel interlocking system that makes the installation process quick and easy.

6) Diamond

These diamond shaped panels are mounted on walls or roofs in the same way as shingles are. The panel is pre-formed and includes a sound insulation layer to reduce noise. A hidden fastener device uses clips and pre-drilled holes to secure each panel to the adjacent panel. The aim is for them to be installed directly on top of the existing surface, allowing quick and easy mounting.

7) Composite

Composite zinc panels feature two thin zinc panels bonded to a polyethylene core using heat activated adhesives, providing enhanced fire resistance. Composite zinc panels provide exceptional strength and can easily be curved or formed to create unique shapes and patterns. They come in 146-inch-long, 48-inch-wide sizes and must mount on a metal framework.

Benefits of Zinc Panels

Zinc panels have many great benefits that make them perfect for any project, and here are just a few:

Corrosion Resistance:
Zinc’s natural patina protects it from rust, allowing it to survive 50+ years when exposed to the elements.
Durability:
Zinc is an extremely durable metal that is slightly lighter than steel. Its natural patina not only prevents rust but also heals surface scratches.
Several Available Finishes:
Zinc panels come in various finishes.
Natural zinc
Weathered Zinc (mimics natural aging process)
Dark Zinc: Black Weathered
Colored Pigments: Shades of red, blue, green, and brown.
Sustainability:
Zinc panels come from natural materials.
Easy to recycle:
Easy to recycle – resulting in new things such as batteries or another metal alloy component.
Energy Efficient:
Since it reflects heat and blocks heat transfer, a zinc roof is also more energy efficient than less costly asphalt shingles.

These common zinc styles have many uses in various commercial, automotive, and even residential construction projects. They easily blend with the surrounding environment in urban and rural environments or provide a striking comparison to neighboring buildings. With so many benefits, zinc panels are a great alternative to other roofing or building materials.