Why Should You Use Galvanised Sheeting for Your Next Project?

When starting a new project, it is important to consider what materials are best for the job. The amount of people using galvanised sheeting in both domestic and industrial DIY projects is increasing with every passing day - with up to 50 years more rust protection than any type of paint could hope to offer. In recent years, galvanised sheeting has become a must-have for automotive parts, water-exposed infrastructures, and general building projects.

Able to create a protective zinc barrier between the iron/steel material and any possible rust or corrosion. In this article, we’ll be considering the benefits to be reaped from galvanised sheeting, as well as a short history and some examples of where the galvanised sheet can be best utilised.

Contents

• What is Galvanisation?
• A Short History
• Why Choose Galvanised Sheeting?
• Modern Galvanisation
• What Can I Use Galvanised Sheeting For?

What is Galvanisation?

Galvanisation is the process of covering steel or iron materials in zinc for rust protection. To protect the underlying substrate from contact with corrosive elements, the thin layer acts as an unceasing barrier which provides a barrier against rust and corrosion.

Galvanisation is typically a dual-stage process:

1. The iron/steel must be suitably processed to allow the zinc coating to bond.

• This process is usually completed via binding the material in an alkaline solution that eliminates rust/grease; a clean base metal must be achieved to successfully galvanise.

2. To produce the required weight specifications, the component is submerged in molten zinc for an adequate time. This allows the zinc to form an alloy layer with the steel layer.

• Bath temperature (zinc melts at 420°C, but a typical bath temperature is 450°C) and immersion time are the primary factors that affect thickness.

A Short History

The galvanisation process dates back nearly 300 years; an alchemist-turned-chemist immersed clean iron in molten zinc and was astounded to see a glistening silver coating develop. The Galvanisation process would be born out of this step.

When galvanizing was first introduced, it didn't refer to the coating process but to the fundamental properties offered. It was in 1836 that Sorel in France took out one of the first patents for coating steel with molten zinc after cleaning it first. He awarded the process with its name ‘galvanizing’.

Why Choose Galvanised Sheeting?

Firstly, galvanisation is extremely cost-efficient, due to its minimal labour intensity galvanisation is one of the least expensive options. Not only is it cost-efficient, but it is also a worthy investment due to its natural longevity. In rural environments, Galvanised sheet metal can last more than 50 years, and in severe urban and coastal environments, it can last about 20 to 25 years. Despite this excellent life span, you'll also find that it requires little to no maintenance whatsoever.

For this reason, galvanisation is exceptionally sustainable. A worthy investment if eco-friendly development is at the utmost of your company values. This is thanks to its extensive lifespan and because the molten zinc bath used in construction can be continuously reused, leaving very little waste. Galvanised sheeting is also incredibly environmentally friendly as Zinc does not release any toxic substances due to it being a natural substance. It can therefore be actively employed in residential settings.

Furthermore, galvanised sheeting can be quickly and easily inspected, owing to the nature of the testing procedures, saving time better spent on maintenance. Galvanised products are also ready to go immediately after assembly. Unlike other coatings, a full protective layer is formed in minutes and is not impacted by weather; meaning it works independently from weathered influence.

This zinc coating also provides rust resistance. Steel's iron atoms are particularly prone to rust, but zinc serves as a protective buffer between the steel and any moisture or oxygen. Galvanised steel is particularly protective, even when used over sharp edges and recesses that other coatings may not necessarily cover.

Galvanisation is one of the most tenacious coatings offered. The complete zinc layer prevents corrosive chemicals from accessing the underlying steel or iron. The zinc also serves as a sacrificial property, which is the main component of preventing buried or submerged metal corrosion. This means that if the coating is damaged, the remaining zinc still shields the exposed steel or iron.

Modern Galvanisation

The implementation of galvanisation in day-to-day life is far more common than one may have originally imagined. Anywhere that longevity and soli corrosion protection is required are where galvanisation will be found. High voltage pylons, lighting columns on the side of the road, industrial warehouses and domestic and commercial settings are all reliant on galvanisation.

Source: galvanizing.org.uk

What Can I Use Galvanised Sheeting For?

Galvanised sheeting has many different uses:

• Awnings
• Balconies
• Building framework
• Canopies
• Ductwork
• Handrails
• Fences
• Industrial pathways
• Kitchens
• Ladders
• stairs
• Street Furniture
• Support Beams
• Verandas

Galvanised sheeting is incredibly advantageous for outdoor infrastructures due to several factors: of course, the biggest one being its anti-rusting agents, but another one is the level of aesthetic that it not only offers but easily maintains. Every business has sustainability objectives, and by installing a material that is 100% recyclable, metal roofing may help your warehouse fulfil and even surpass those goals.

The use of galvanised steel sheeting is hugely beneficial in the construction of warehouses and general building structures for several reasons. Did you know that approximately a quarter of heat is lost through your roof? And with bills only going up and up every day, energy conservation should be a high priority for any building project. With a well-fitted, suitable roofing material you can save nearly 40% on your energy bills; that’s nearly half of your monthly bills reduced just by using galvanised sheets. Galvanised sheeting can also increase the rental and resale value of your warehouse.

Another benefit is that metal roofing excellent for temperature control: they repel heat just as much as they retain it. This reduces the need for expensive air conditioning machines and maintains your warehouse at a much more acceptable room temperature. In addition, metal roofs can outshine tensile membrane roofs, conserving up to 40% on heating and cooling expenditures. With exceptional flexibility a galvanised sheet also offers those using it near total autonomy over the final structural design.

Any More Questions?

Galvanised sheeting is a highly practical option that provides a wide variety of advantages that other sheeting materials simply cannot. With tremendous benefits in terms of strength, sustainability, safety, endurance, and durability, it's simple to see why so many people prefer galvanised sheeting over similar alternatives. And whilst they may see a dip in their expected lifespans when installed within a couple miles of the coastline, for warehouses and other commercial or agricultural applications, they are perfect.

Using galvanised sheets are phenomenal choice for anyone who appreciates excellent levels of performance and long-term benefits but doesn't have the time for lengthy and considerable maintenance. Should you have any further questions or concerns, please get in touch with our award-winning customer service team on 01295 565 565 or contact us directly via our easy-to-use live chat.