Can I use lead, zinc and aluminium, powder-coated or galvanised steel, with timber cladding?
Yes, but care should be taken to protect any cut ends or drilled holes in galvanised or powder coated material. The risk of any reaction between these metals and more acidic timbers or timber treated with a wood preservative may be minimised when used externally by adopting a detail that separates the metal and the timber, for example by the use of a membrane, or bitumen paint. If tannin runoff is a concern with the selected timber, temporary protection such as a plastic film can be used during the initial weathering period, which is 6 to 12 months. However, this is not common practice and the flashings are normally left exposed, leading to only light staining, as long as there is a slope to the material to promote drainage.
For more detailed information about timber cladding, take a look at our book External Timber Cladding, a comprehensive guide to the design and specification of timber cladding.
We also provides a range of services for building designers and product manufacturers to assist with timber cladding queries, as well as training and cpd.
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