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Zinc FAQs

Zinc Roofs: All You Need To Know

Considering zinc roofs, but not sure you understand exactly what is needed or how an installation works? Scroll below to find the answers to the most common questions our clients usually ask us about zinc roofs.

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Costs | Installation Process | Advantages | Colours

What goes under a zinc roof?

Timber is mostly used as the substrate for ventilated roofs.

This is usually presented in the form of soft-wood boarding, WBP exterior grade plywood sheathing or Class 3 OSB sheathing.

The minimum thickness used for the substrate is around 22mm for the s/w boarding and 18mm for the plywood.

Does a zinc roof need ventilation?

When used on a cold roof or a façade the roof will need to be ventilated.

VMZ Zinc plus should be used when installing over plywood or during a warm roof application.

How do you install a zinc roof?

Installing a zinc roof has various different methods depending on your design and type of roof.

Basically, roof fixings are used to attach the zinc to the roof.

The standing seam zinc roofing used hidden clips that are hooked into the seam, or screwed/nailed into the substrate below.

For any roof installation, especially a zinc roof installation you should always involve a roofing professional

Read more here.

How thick is zinc cladding?

Around 0.7mm thick; it’s the standard roofing thickness.

Although, long panels or exposed sites, zinc that is 0.8mm thick should be considered instead.

When it comes to standing seam panels for wall cladding, they should be no larger than 430mm or 0.8mm thick.

How long does zinc cladding last?

One of zinc’s benefits is the fact it can last over 100 years in unpolluted environments.

In the urban environment, zinc can last anywhere from 60 to 80 years. See more benefits.

Is a zinc roof expensive?

Copper is the most expensive, with zinc coming in second place.

Tiles and asphalt can be unreliable roof materials as we know due to the consistent need to repair and replace, this is often a cost avoided with zinc roofs.

See costs.

What are the disadvantages of zinc roofs?

Just that it is more costly than other roofing materials. There are no other negatives when it comes to zinc being used as a roofing material.

It is strong, durable and malleable. It adds significant value to the property and provides a great return on investment for homeowners.

Are zinc roofs noisy?

This is just a common metal roof myth – in fact, metal roofs will be just as noisy as your standard asphalt roof. So you won’t notice a difference there!

Do zinc roofs rust?

The protective patina will protect your zinc roof from rust and corrosion. It is also moisture resistant!

This makes zinc one of the most reliable and longest-lasting metal roof solutions on the market today.

What are the pros and cons of zinc roofs?

Is zinc a good building material?

  • Flexible (create any shape)
  • Multiple colours
  • Environmentally friendly
  • Long-lasting

Can you stand on a zinc roof?

As a general rule, try to avoid walking on the roof after installation, even if the zinc is protected by film.

However, when necessary, special ladders which are designed for this purpose can be used, as well as security footwear that’s suitable for slippery surfaces.

How heavy is a zinc roof?

0.7mm is 5kg and 0.8mm is 5.8kg.

Does zinc get hot in the sun?

It will get hot as it is subjected to the sun.

Warning from VMZinc:

Zinc will get hot as it is subjected to the sun. The maximum surface temperature of QUARTZ ZINC is 176°F and the maximum surface temperature of ANTHRA ZINC is 190°F.  Caution should be used when handling the zinc.  Even if the ambient temperature is, for example, 70°F, the zinc can still reach its maximum surface temperature.

Can you put a metal roof on a flat roof?

Metal works fantastically on flat roofs which have a low pitch. Metal roofs are a greener solution that can last several years and require little to no maintenance.

If we have not answered your question above do not hesitate to get in touch with us here, on live chat or through Whatsapp.

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