Titanium zinc and other materials

Titanium zinc is a material that can be easily combined with other materials. Yet there are a number of materials that require extra attention.

Roofing materials
Bitumen-based roofing materials are based on petroleum with modifications, known as APP and SBS modified bitumen. These will partially break down (SBS to a lesser extent) into soluble substances under the influence of sunlight (UV rays). These substances are carbolic acids, which increase the acidity of the rainwater. When this water then runs off over the zinc, the zinc will severely corrode.

For most plastic roofing materials there are no problems with zinc and the substances discharged. However, PVC roofing materials can have problems with chlorine binding discharges (softeners) that damage the zinc. Corrosion only occurs if the roofing is applied on top of the zinc and rainwater runs over the zinc.

Copper
Copper is more precious (great difference in potential) than zinc. The electrochemical potential between zinc and copper means that copper cannot be used above zinc. If it is, the zinc will quickly degrade (electrochemical corrosion). Corrosion also takes place if the two substances come into direct contact. If water flows from copper to zinc, the zinc will be damaged.

Lead
The potential difference between zinc and lead is small and therefore there should be no difficulties in using those metals together. Partly because of the patination of zinc and lead, a transition zone is created, making the potential difference almost equal. We do recommend treating lead with patination oil immediately after assembly. This will prevent the lead from leaving marks on the zinc. To prevent damage when using lead flashing in a zinc gutter, use of a plastic separation layer, such as EPDM rubber, is recommended.

Thatched roofs
Zinc cannot be used under a thatched roof because it will be corroded by the humus acids that leach out of the reed. The zinc literally dissolves. Zinc is used for ridges, chimneys (above the thatch) and roof penetrations so water does not run off the thatch on to the zinc.

Wood types
Preferably do not use the following in direct contact with zinc:
• Plywood: build up of veneer layers that have been glued together (water tight). If condensation were to form between the
plywood and the zinc, the moisture would damage the zinc after long-term exposure.
• Preserved wood: check which preserver has been used on the wood with the applier.
• Western Red Cedar used in an untreated form leaches over time. It contains corrosive substances that can damage the zinc.
This only causes problems if the wood is applied above the zinc and water runs off over the zinc.

Types of glue
A precondition for gluing zinc is to use an elastic non-silicone-based glue, which does not contain any acidic substances. The glue must be elastic to deal with expansion and contraction. Types of glue that are not recommended are: acidic silicones and epoxies, urea/melamine glues and phenol formaldehyde glues.

Mineral building materials
Mineral construction materials are used in great quantities in construction, such as fresh concrete, calcium, gypsum, cement and mortar. They can damage zinc in combination with moisture. We recommend applying the zinc as late as possible in the building process to reduce the chance of contamination and minimize any damage.

(Fiber cement) slate
If zinc is used in combination with other materials, some materials cause damage to the zinc. It is recommended when (fiber cement) slates are placed above the zinc to contact the supplier of the slates. When possible, negative effects are ruled out, guaranteeing the zinc’s lifetime.

Galvanized steel, aluminum and stainless steel
Direct contact is permitted between titanium zinc and galvanized steel, aluminum (anodized or enamelled) and stainless steel.
Please note: if galvanized steel wears, rust can occur that will leave marks on the zinc.