What do we work with?
Zinc
Zinc in roofing dates back to the 18th century and has grown in popularity year by year ever since it began being used as a cheaper alternative to copper and lead in the construction industry.In recent years also grown more popular in the residential market due to its range of surface colours which gives architects and clients the possibility to be create traditional or contemporary bespoke designs as the metal blends in very well with other building materials such as glass, wood and stone finishes around it. Zinc is also an exceptionally malleable material making it extremely useful for complex shapes and is enjoyable to work with by the craftsman installing the system.
Other benefits of zinc include an high long life expectancy of over 70 years, however it is vitally important the installation must be correct and onto a compatible sub structure, this achieves a material which is naturally corrosion resistant and is 100% recyclable making it a very green choice, the zinc roofing system is very low maintenance throughout its life as it develops its own protective layer and self-repairs against scratches and imperfections.
Copper
Copper has earned a respected place in the related fields of architecture, building construction and contemporary design.
The history of copper in architecture dates back thousands of years and can be linked to its durability, corrosion resistance, prestigious appearance and its ability to form complex shapes, these attributes have been utilised by craftsmen and architects to build aesthetically pleasing and long lasting roofing systems.
The use of copper on domestic properties in roofing and cladding has grown in popularity over the last 25 years incorporating new styles, variety of colours and different shapes and textures.
Coppers most famous trait is its display from a bright metallic orange colour to iridescent brown to near black and finally to a greenish patina, however with current technology and process techniques copper can be supplied at weathering stage to suit the clients design or homes surroundings which will stay the same colour throughout its life with minimal oxidisation.
Stainless Steel
In architectural applications, stainless steel is often used because of its attractive appearance. Facades, interior cladding, lifts and escalators, handrails and parapets are some of the most typical areas of stainless steel use.Stainless steels resistance to corrosion and staining, low maintenance make it an ideal material for roofing and cladding, it is used for both practical and aesthetic reasons, the most famous example of this being the upper portion of the Chrysler Building which was constructed in 1931.
Today the material is commonly used for lead replacements on heritage buildings and churches but also becoming increasingly popular in the domestic market. Stainless steel is popular as it is a cost effective, quality material as compared with alternatives and is often known as the “green material” within the construction sector, this is because it has a recyclable recovery rate very close to 100%. In recent years it has proven to meet the needs of modern architecture by offering a comprehensive range of surface finishes to suit traditional and contemporary buildings.
Colour Coated Steel
Colour coated steel has been used across Europe for over 50 years and now used worldwide on exterior buildings for roofing and cladding applications. The product can not only offer environmental benefits and great performance, it also can be provided in a vast selection of colours to suit the vision of each individual project. The material is highly resistant to corrosion and UV radiation which makes the project very durable for industrial, commercial, renovation and residential applications which can be used throughout the UK including coastal areas, making the product a very popular choice within the industry.
Aluminium
Aluminium has a long life, is lightweight and is eco-friendly, it now comes in a range or precoated colours which are often used to replicate zinc and copper roofing and cladding to offer economic benefits, there are many specialist finishes available for clients and architects who are looking to create something different for their building. 40 year warranties can be offered on selected aluminium products and the material can be used in all possible applications including rainwater goods and bespoke fabrications. The material has been used over the years here in the UK however have become increasingly popular over the last 10 years in standing seam roofing and cladding in particular.
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Rainscreen
Rainscreens are often used when clients are looking for flatter panel finish and Just Hard Metals can offer various rainscreen systems to suit your project needs, honeycomb panels and reveal panels are some of the most popular systems that can be supplied as a lightweight cladding option and can be finished in all metals for example, but not limited to copper, stainless steel, coated aluminium and zinc. Rainscreens can be installed horizontally, vertically or diagonally and can be supplied in various widths to suit each building design.
Rainwater Goods
Hard metal gutters and rainwater pipes are the perfect way to compliment your home and gives its an individual appearance from the norm. Whether it be copper, zinc or steel there is a variety of finishes to blend in with your exterior building finish or surrounding environment.We can also provide matching fascias and soffits to match your chosen rainwater goods to add to the finishing touches whether it be a new build, extension or simply fleshing up your homes appearance. These systems can be added in conjunction with the original roof on your building.
