Aesthetic and Durable
by Marcy Marro | July 1, 2021 12:00 am
Zinc as a cladding material has multiple advantages
Product Range
When providing a modern building material, the user expects and demands a wide product range. Therefore, The Netherlands-based NedZink BV has an extensive range of material colors the architect can choose from. Next to the bright-rolled standard material, two specific pre-weathered types are developed to meet architects’ wishes. The mineral grey-colored type NEO has a matte, subtle brushed surface, and the type NOIR is an anthracite black color. In addition, three specific zinc color nuances are available. These distinctive colors have a unique appearance by using pigments in the variants blue, red and green.
With its 125 years of experience of zinc manufacturing, NedZink provides a range of products that lasts long and needs no maintenance at all. At the end of its service life, the material is collected and reused completely. Not only by means of re-melting for zinc dipping and galvanizing processes, but also re-used after disassembling for instance panel systems on a facade.
Easy Installation
Zinc cladding systems are easy to install, because the chosen type of cladding is especially developed for quick manufacturing and assembly. For example, the panel system has a range of sizes to choose from. Pre-fabrication and simple assembly are time effective. A range of additional profiles contributes to the aesthetic value of the facade.
Facade Systems
Due to the variety of facade systems, it is easy to make a selection. The traditional standing seam system is mainly known in Europe for roof coverings but has certainly also proved itself as a facade cladding in recent decades. The system is suitable for prefabrication and the simple assembly makes it easy to provide a facade with a zinc outer shell. This standing seam facade cladding is not only durable, but an aesthetically pleasing eye-catcher.
In addition to the traditional standing seam system, various facade systems have been developed that offer the architect the opportunity to make a suitable choice in line with his design. Interlocking and flatlock panels are popular as facade cladding because of their appearance and easy installation.
Interlocking Panel System
The interlocking panel in particular creates a special appearance due to the shadow gap (reveal) between the panels. The dimensions of the panels and joints are variable, as are the lengths of the panels.
The characteristic of this panel is a tongue-and-groove systems with concealed fasteners. It can be installed both vertically and horizontally or even a combination.
The system has a series of corresponding profiles that ensure that the view is straightforward and in harmony with the rest of the facade parts. The system offers architects freeway to implementing their designs for most building shapes by using this system.
Zinc is a Sustainable Material
Zinc is one of the most reliable metals that has been used as a building material for centuries. This includes zinc gutters, rainwater drainage systems, roof coverings and wall claddings.
With a life span of 75-plus years, zinc is not only an aesthetic choice but nowadays also a sustainable choice. In addition to a long service life, more than 95% is collected and recycled again after use.
It therefore answers the circular economy. There are few building materials whose overall environmental balance is as positive as for zinc. NedZink is certified by the independent German institute IBU by means of the EPD (Environmental Product Declaration) for its bright-rolled and pre-weathered product range. It is therefore totally consistent with the cradle-to-cradle philosophy.
Arjen van Gerwen is the technical advisor for NedZink BV, The Netherlands. To learn more, visit www.nedzink.us[1].
- www.nedzink.us: http://www.nedzink.us
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