We first wrote about this topic in 2019 when we thought the trend for natural zinc finishes might be peaking. However, based on our current sample requests, quote requests and project orders, we are still seeing a trend towards using natural Zinc finishes on our Vitrabond® metal composite material. We completely understand why designers and architects are continuing to choose zinc finishes for their upcoming project designs.
If you are new to this trend, here are some of the key benefits of choosing natural zinc finishes for your exterior building facade:
Weather Resistance
Natural Zinc finishes offer excellent weather resistance, with their natural ability to form a patina that protects from rust and corrosion. This also provides you with an ever-changing and naturally evolving finish.
Longevity and Sustainability
Zinc finishes have the benefit of lasting for several decades thanks to the naturally occurring patina that increases the longevity of the finish. They are also 100% recyclable making them an environmentally-friendly building solution.
Unlike the oxidation process of steel that forms rust and eventually corrodes overtime and renders the surface unusable, zinc has the ability to resist corrosion due to a unique reaction. When zinc is exposed to moisture and the carbon dioxide that is present in our atmosphere, a protective layer of zinc carbonate forms on its surface. The resulting zinc-carbonate layer creates a beautiful bluish patina that also has aesthetic appeal.
Self-healing
Another unique characteristic of zinc is that it can “heal” itself overtime. As it continues to patina throughout its lifetime, scratches and imperfections that were once present will virtually disappear Zinc comes in a wide range of colors that include reds, blues and greys as well as a slate and graphite finishes. The textured aspect of the pre-weathered zinc shows through the color, similar to the grain in wood. See our color chart for more information.
Our Zinc Partnership
We formed a strategic partnership with RHEINZINK America in 2019 to be the exclusive provider of Zinc Composite Material (ZCM) using their finishes. This collaboration has resulted in us working together on a variety of projects, including the 70 Carlton Street project and the magnificent Bank of the Ozarks project (currently under construction). As shown above there are many benefits to using zinc finishes on building facades, however, when combined with composite material you get the additional performance benefits from this product.
Find out more about the extra benefits of using Vitrabond® Zinc Composite Material on your next building façade project here.
You can also view our current range of finishes as well as request samples here.
