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The choice of materials and finish will determine the look and longevity of the flashings. It is also important to be confident of a manufacturer who provides dimensional accuracy of all flashings in order to ensure that tapers are avoided. Consistency of dimensions and quality will greatly contribute to the final appearance of the finished building envelope. Aluminium Low weight, high strength, corrosion resistance and formability are some of the key properties of aluminium. Aluminium is one third the weight of steel yet when alloyed its strength to weight ratio is superior to that of steel. It has a natural oxide film that provides resistance to corrosion and which reforms itself if damaged. It is naturally durable and can be cast, rolled or forged as well as extruded to be formed into an almost limitless range of shapes. Extruded sections are well defined with clean edges, corners and fine detailing. Joining is achieved by most methods including mechanical, welding and adhesives. It is virtually maintenance free because of its high strength and high corrosion resistance. Its lack of electrostatic charge means that it does not attract dirt. Architectural Powder Coated Aluminium When a new aluminium surface is exposed to the atmosphere a chemical reaction occurs which results in the formation of a protective oxide layer. The layer thickens very slowly with age. The formation of this layer effectively means that aluminium's structural integrity is unaffected by the atmosphere. However where greater protection is necessary or the preservation of the matal's surface is desired or where coloured or textured finishes are required, aluminium can be treated by powder coating. Architectural Powder Coating is a specialist process, which enables a colour-stable coating to be applied to metal components used throughout buildings. The advanced technology of the process means that a single coat can provide hard, durable coating with life expectancy of up to 25 years. Architectural powder coatings offer a wide range of bright colours including whites to create the desired effect. Anodised Aluminium Anodising is an electrolytic process that deposits a chemically stable oxide layer on the surface of the alumiunium. The resultant oxide film is thicker and stronger that aluminium's natural oxide covering. It is hard, pourous, transparent and is an integral part of the metal so it will not peel or flake off. Once deposited the oxide film can then be coloured, but choices are limited. Exterior finishes require 25 micron film thickness.
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