As the building industry migrates toward green practices, zinc will continue to play an increasingly important role in the development of truly sustainable buildings.

Durable and Beautiful

Zinc in roofing and wall cladding came into prominence in the 19th century during Baron Haussmann’s renovation of Paris, where over 80% of the rooftops are zinc, many still in place 150 years after their construction.  Zinc was prized for its longevity, low maintenance, relatively lightweight and workability that lent itself to a high level of craftsmanship.

The key to the durability of zinc roofs and facades, and often cited as the source of their beauty, is patination.  Over time, zinc develops a distinctive patina, going from shiny silver to matte bluish gray (although, other colors and finishes are available). Water, oxygen, and carbon dioxide interact with the zinc surface to form a protective layer of zinc carbonate.  Insoluble in rainwater, this layer hinders further exchanges between oxygen and zinc; protecting it from further corrosion.

Zinc in its elemental form is too soft and brittle for architectural applications and is often alloyed with small amounts of titanium and copper to provide both the malleability and strength for profiling.