Durability Of Pre-finished Steel In Roof And Wall Cladding Systems

Durability

Durability

The performance expectations for pre-finished steel for construction are extremely high, with demands for guaranteed long service lives, high flexibility and high aesthetic quality. The overall durability of the pre-finished steel will depend on the metallic coating type used, pre-treatment chemistry, primer quality, topcoat paint quality and thickness, manufacturing process quality and consistency.

The main design factors considered when developing a pre-finished steel product are:

* The buildings location

* The products performance in accelerated and natural exterior weathering

* The type and quality of the elements making up the product

All products used for exterior applications are designed to withstand the environment.

But all are, to some level affected by it.

The main environmental factors, which degrade pre-finished steel products, are:

* Water, oxygen and salts

* Sunlight

* Chemicals and pollutants

* Abrasives such as wind-blown sand and salts

Maintenance, remedial work and renewal

In order to ensure that the building remains fully functional throughout its design life, it is important that it receives regular maintenance including inspection, removal of debris, cleaning and repair of damage.

Since maintenance usually involves access by workmen (often carrying equipment) it is essential that this is allowed for in the design of the building envelope and the supporting structure. The need for maintenance may be greatly reduced by specifying a coating for the weathersheet with a maintenance free guarantee.

Remedial work

Build up of dirt and debris. This can occur on surfaces and such build-up can be

particularly profound at any irregularity, such as at corners, penetrations and gutters.

Areas that are sheltered from rain will not benefit from the natural cleaning affect of

washing by rain. Such areas should be inspected periodically and when required

cleaned.

Physical damage. This can occur for a number of reasons such as impact and abrasion. If there is only minor damage then no action is required. If there is more serious damage, such as breaching of the paint coating, then remedial action is required.

Faulty fasteners. Those which are faulty through damage or corrosion should be removed and replaced. Otherwise corrosion can lead to unsightly staining and potential corrosion of the cladding.

There are many situations when it can make more sense to refurbish and upgrade a building rather than demolish it and start again. Pre-finished steel is ideal for refurbishment as a replacement, over-cladding solution, or as a base for over-painting if it was used for the original cladding.

The follow factors should be considered before deciding to replace or over-paint a building:

* Determine what level of refurbishment is required. Does the building require a major upgrade or change of colour. Over-painting is particularly suited to the latter.

* Determine what life the refurbished building needs to offer. Over-painting can extend the building life by 10-15 years, metal cladding by 20-40 years.

* Check the condition of the metal cladding. If the original coating has delaminated or the steel has underlying rust, then over-painting may not offer the appropriate solution.

by: Gareth Hoyle

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