48
Despite the changing architectural trends and constant innovation in building materials, zinc has stood the test of time, and it is now fundamental in
contemporary architecture
delivering striking, contemporary architecture. Whether it is a curved facade or an angular structure with multiple facets, a combination of zinc cladding and roofing systems, plus ornamental elements, enables consistency in form, function and performance.
The fact that zinc cladding and roofing requires no maintenance during its long service life also helps to minimise its carbon footprint. This ‘fit and forget’ quality is valid for any application where rainwater is present, with the exception of soffits on some buildings located in coastal areas. In addition, metals are by definition non-combustible, which makes them a fire safe choice for the building envelope, providing that the surrounding structure, insulation and attachment method matches its performance characteristics, and zinc is no exception. Zinc roofing and cladding products are available as either A1 or A2 classified for non-combustibility, without any special requirements. Zinc cladding or roofing can be fixed to a galvanised steel deck, with the correct insulation specified – basic steps that will maintain fire performance should the worst happen.
Unrestrained geometric freedom While zinc is widely used for standing seam roofs, this is only part of its story in architecture. This versatile material has been applied to numerous other external envelope elements since it first found its niche in 1830s Paris. It was around that time that production ramped up with new factories capable of meeting a growing roofing demand and innovation thrived with the development of a broader range of zinc products. Today these include cladding, rainwater systems, and interior and ornamental applications.
As a malleable material that lends itself to different forms with ease, zinc’s ability to be shaped gives it enormous potential for
WWW.ARCHITECTSDATAFILE.CO.UK
Aesthetics and creativity can flourish through the range of surface finishes developed over the past four decades, including engraved zinc. Delivering timeless architecture, however, requires flexibility, which is what makes zinc ideal for unrestrained facade aesthetics. The material can be made to bespoke requirements, through embossing and perforation, with project-specific finishes also an option. While pre-weathered zinc is used most widely, natural zinc is still used where a design calls for a more organic and uneven appearance before the patina forms. As well as more traditional roofing systems such as standing seam and batten cap, facades give designers more creative scope including rainscreen systems such as interlocking panels, with concealed fastening for clean sightlines and a neat finish. The refined and subtle finish of zinc on the external skin is part of a complete wall build up incorporating acoustic and thermal insulation to meet specific project values.
All round performer
Despite the changing architectural trends and constant innovation in building materials, zinc has stood the test of time and it is now a fundamental in contemporary architecture. From the elegance of central Paris to the edgy architecture of Melbourne, to projects in Texas and the Scottish Highlands, this versatile, sustainable material continues to play a key part in delivering outstanding buildings and enabling aesthetic creativity to flourish.
Jonathan Lowy is operational marketing manager at VMZinc
ADF OCTOBER 2019
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52
