Rolled zinc is a premium non-ferrous metal widely recognised for its durability and versatility in roofing and cladding applications. Its malleability allows for use in complex architectural forms, making it suitable for marine and corrosive environments. Additionally, zinc is a sustainable material due to its natural properties, minimal maintenance requirements, low melting point, and long service life.
One of its most desirable qualities is its inherent beauty, showcased through an array of surface finishes, highlighted by the signature matte patina. As a world leader in rolled zinc manufacturing, VMZINC has been at the forefront of market innovation for over 180 years, developing unique zinc finishes that enhance both aesthetics and functionality.
Surface Finishes
VMZINC offers a diverse range of surface finishes, each with distinct characteristics.
Natural-Zinc
Also referred to as ‘Mill Finish’ zinc, this material was the original zinc used in architecture hundreds of years ago. VMZINC’s Natural-Zinc has an initial silvery-grey appearance, similar to stainless steel. Over time, it gradually develops a matt grey patina. This transition is gradual but begins immediately upon exposure to air and rainwater. The development of the patina can be understood as a two-part process involving exposure to rainwater and oxygen, followed by carbon dioxide. The result is a durable matte grey patina that is firmly bonded to the metal, providing zinc with natural resistance to atmospheric corrosion. On average, the formation of the zinc patina can take between 6 months to 2 years, depending on local atmospheric conditions.
Factors such as the duration of rainfall, exposure to rainfall, and pollution can influence the timeframe for patina development. It is worth noting that patina can take longer to form on facades compared to roofs due to differences in exposure to rainfall. The development of the patina may also be patchy and uneven, giving the metal a natural and almost rustic appearance—this is the signature charm of Natural-Zinc. The rooftops of Paris serve as a prime example of Natural-Zinc’s durability; many of these roofs are well over 150 years old and remain serviceable.
Quartz-Zinc
This finish is recognized as VMZINC's signature zinc surface finish. Since its introduction in 1993, VMZINC has been the first to develop this type of zinc for the market. Quartz-Zinc imitates the natural weathering process that occurs with Natural-Zinc. It is known for being the most stable of zinc finishes over time, with minor marks and imperfections capable of self-correcting back to this matt grey patina texture. Produced through surface treatment of Natural-Zinc, Quartz-Zinc develops a stable and uniform matte grey finish. The darkness of Quartz-Zinc is carefully monitored during pre-weathering to ensure that variations between batches remain within strict tolerances.
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Anthra-Zinc
Representing a pre-weathered zinc with a dark matte black finish, Anthra-Zinc was the first pre-weathered zinc introduced to the market in 1978. Similar to Quartz-Zinc, it is produced by surface treatment of Natural-Zinc, which alters its surface characteristics. After installation, Anthra-Zinc will gradually lighten to a dark charcoal grey. The darkness of this zinc finish is monitored during the pre-weathering process to maintain batch consistency. Careful consideration should be given when using Anthra-Zinc in marine environments near the ocean because salt deposits can form that are more visible against its dark surface colour. These stains are superficial and do not interfere with the integrity of the zinc.
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Pigmento
VMZINC’s range of coloured zinc is known as Pigmento. Developed in 2005, it was the first range of coloured zinc available on the market. Pigmento consists of pre-weathered VMZINC coated with natural mineral pigments for durable colour retention. The natural grain of pre-weathered zinc remains visible through the colour coating, preserving its natural appearance while offering a variety of hues. Pigmento is available in Red, Blue, Green, Brown, Grey, Charcoal Grey, and Storm Grey. As with all coated metals, care should be taken in marine locations to ensure that bare or cut edges are not exposed. Additionally, special attention should be given to folds during installation; respecting the required fold radius is essential.
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Azengar
Azengar features Natural-Zinc with an engraved surface texture and represents one of the lightest zinc finishes available. Introduced to the market in 2014, it was also the first zinc finish of its kind. Designed to imitate nature's unpredictability, Azengar is produced through surface treatment of Natural-Zinc. After installation, Azengar will darken slightly as its surface patina develops over time. This finish showcases a wider range of aesthetic variations depending on site conditions and environmental factors.
Other Considerations
Zinc can be installed in any environment. VMZINC projects have been installed all over the world in hot, cold, windy, coastal, urban and rural environments. Zinc requires no maintenance as the rinsing effect of water helps maintain the naturally forming patina.
Adaptability
Zinc can be installed in various environments—VMZINC projects have thrived globally in hot, cold, windy, coastal, urban, and rural settings. Its self-healing properties mean that minor scratches will naturally form new patina over time.
Salt Deposits
In coastal areas near the ocean, saltwater and saltwater condensation can affect all materials, including zinc. When water evaporates, it may leave white salt stains on zinc’s surface. On surfaces exposed to rainwater, most of these stains are washed away; however, in areas such as soffits or protected facades, these stains can accumulate and become more prominent. Importantly, salt deposits are purely superficial and do not compromise the integrity of the zinc.
Natural-Zinc, Azengar, and Quartz-Zinc are particularly suitable for marine environments due to their grey tones and naturally forming grey patina. Areas within 1 kilometre of the coast are generally considered extreme coastal zones; however, depending on specific geographic conditions, salt can sometimes affect regions much farther inland.
Flatness
A distinct advantage of zinc is its supreme malleability, allowing it to be shaped into almost any form, including low-radius curves. Some waviness may occur, commonly referred to as "oil canning, "especially with thinner zinc sheets. This effect can become more visible at different times of the day as sunlight hits the surface at varying angles. While precautions such as minimising panel sizes and employing correct installation methods can mitigate this phenomenon, it remains an intrinsic characteristic of zinc—a material that has been utilised for centuries.
Colour variations
Zinc is a completely natural material, composed of 99.995%pure zinc, which is naturally present in the earth’s crust. As with other natural materials like stone and wood, colour variations between panels are common and expected. These variations are typically minimized over time as the zinc develops its natural patina and as its surface continually evolves due to atmospheric exposure. To further reduce colour differences, it is recommended that panels and flashings be profiled from material sourced from the same batch.
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VMZINC offers architects an unparalleled combination of aesthetic appeal and functional durability through its diverse range of finishes. By choosing VMZINC, you can enhance your architectural designs with materials that not only look stunning but also stand the test of time.
Your Vision, Our Expertise
At INSPIRE, we believe in building long-term partnerships that empower you to make confident, informed decisions. Our consultation services are designed to help you navigate the complexities of material specification, building standards, budget constraints, and environmental considerations. We’ll be with you every step of the way.
Ready to redefine what’s possible in design? INSPIRE is here with the materials, expertise, and passion to bring your vision to life.
