Galvanized sheet metal is a type of steel that's gone through a chemical process to coat it with a layer of zinc oxide. As a result, galvanized steel won't get rusty as easily as regular steel. The coating also gives the steel a more durable finish. Because of this, galvanized sheet metal is one of the most commonly used types of sheet metal in the manufacturing industry.
If you're thinking about using galvanized steel sheet metal in your construction project or your existing structure has galvanized steel elements in need of maintenance or restoration, then there are a few things that you're going to want to know about galvanized steel in general.
Because of its anti-corrosive properties, galvanized sheet metal is often used for outdoor applications such as fences, roofs, gutters, and garage doors. It is also often used in the construction of storage sheds and other types of buildings due to its durability.
Some people also use galvanized steel sheet metal for artistic purposes. This material can be cut and bent into all sorts of shapes. Some artists use it to create sculptures while others use it to make jewelry or other decorative items.
There are several different processes that can be used to make galvanized sheet metal. One of the most widely used is hot-dip galvanization, which involves dipping steel into molten zinc. The layer of zinc mixes with oxygen to create zinc oxide, which then reacts with carbon dioxide (CO2) to form zinc carbonate.
Another way galvanized sheet metal is produced is by passing the steel through a process called electro galvanizing. Electro galvanizing involves bonding a layer of zinc to the steel using the electroplating technique. Basically, a current of electricity is run through a zinc solution using a zinc anode and steel conductor to create the coating.
Galvanized steel sheet metal is available in many different sizes. The thickest galvanized steel sheet metal available is an 8 gauge, which is 0.1681 inches thick. The thinnest available is a 32 gauge, which is 0.0134 thick.
As far as the aesthetic of galvanized sheet metal goes, there are a few finish options that you can choose from. You can get galvanized steel in its natural finish, which is a silver color. You can also get galvanized steel in a powder-coated finish. This is a type of paint that is applied to the metal using an electrostatic process. Powder-coated finishes are very durable and resistant to chipping, fading, and scratching. As a result, you can choose from many different colors to ensure that your galvanized sheet metal matches the look you're going for.
For decades, we’ve worked across Parliament Hill on major restoration efforts with galvanized steel sheet metal, bringing historic sheet metal craftsmanship to structures like the Peace Tower, Centre Block, Library of Parliament, and more.
Peace Tower, Centre Block, and Library of Parliament
Heather & Little has been involved in restoring several Parliament Hill landmarks, including the Peace Tower, Centre Block, and the Library of Parliament. These buildings showcase Gothic Revival architecture and require precise restoration to maintain historical integrity.
Peace Tower, Ottawa
The Peace Tower, standing 302 feet tall, needed extensive sheet metal restoration due to weather erosion. We removed and reinstalled copper roofing with modern air-vapour barriers and wood battens, restoring decorative copper cresting and using original 20- and 24-ounce copper sheets.
Centre Block
The Centre Block’s copper roof was fully replaced, including a new building envelope with an air barrier membrane and batten seam copper roofing. Galvanized steel was used in structural areas to improve durability without compromising historical design.
Library of Parliament
In this project, Heather & Little stripped the roof to the steel framing, installing a new steel deck, vapour barrier, and insulation. We used 1,390 square metres of galvanized iron and lead-coated copper, along with stainless steel gutters and restored ornamental elements, balancing historical accuracy and modern protection.
West Block and MacKenzie Tower
The West Block’s MacKenzie Tower underwent a major restoration with the complete removal and replacement of copper batten roofing. Galvanized steel supported hidden structures while restored copper and lead protected masonry and decorative details.
East Block
The East Block’s slate roofs were replaced with copper during restoration. Heather & Little installed new copper roofs and lead caps over masonry to protect against weather damage, with galvanized steel backing for additional strength.
Office of the Prime Minister and Privy Council (formerly the Langevin Block)
Restoration included the complete removal of the mansard copper roof, replicating the stamped sheet metal decorations, and the installation of 20-ounce copper sheets. Galvanized steel supported structural elements beneath this highly detailed roof.
Contact Heather & Little for Galvanized Steel Sheet Metal Solutions
Whether you're working on a National Historic Site or a local heritage restoration, our experience with galvanized steel sheet metal and other specialized materials makes us a trusted partner in architectural sheet metal work. Contact Heather & Little today to discuss how we can support your restoration project.
If you are looking for a second opinion on your project or have a particularly complex issue that needs a fresh eye, such as historic building restoration, we’re here to help. Tackling tricky restoration projects is our specialty, and we welcome the opportunity to provide consulting services. We apply a keen attention to detail to all our commissions.
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