Zinc cladding

Architect Nikki Ritchie of

Hyve Architects shares her professional tipsé

1 it needs an expert installer

Zinc has a long life and its installation is a very skilled job. Be sure to choose an installer who is a metal roofing specialist, preferably from an approved list of installers supplied by your zinc manufacturer.

2 you have to mix it carefully

Zinc reacts with silicone

products and the tannins present in some timbers (including oak and western red cedar) can cause it to corrode quickly. ask for a specialist’s advice about which materials are compatible, and ensure that all junctions are detailed well so that a corrosive material does not come into contact with the zinc.

3 it’s really versatile

Zinc can be used on walls as well as roofs, dormers, gutters and downpipes. it is highly customisable, has the ability to be formed into unconventional shapes and is very useful as a surface for shallow pitched roofs.

4 it has lots of benefits

Zinc is 100% recyclable, it has a very long service life of more than 75 years and it needs almost no maintenance over its life. it’s also fire resistant and lightweight.

5 it suits all ages of building

Zinc is significantly cheaper than lead, and can be used for flashings on traditional buildings. it is also a great choice for a contemporarystyle building, and its natural colour complements stone and timber very well.