Compatibility rules
Zinc and Other Products
Certain products when placed in contact with zinc can have detrimental effects on the appearance and/or structural integrity of the zinc. Acidic products and products that can generate a galvanic reaction must not be used with zinc. Also, run off from non compatible products onto zinc must be avoided
-
Zinc in relation with timber
A low or non-acid solid, natural and non treated timber deck, that is, with a pH of between 5 and 7 is compatible with zinc and can be used as a direct support.
-
Zinc in relation with other metals
Contact between zinc and other metals must take into account the electro-chemical reactions caused by a difference in electrical potential between the surfaces of the metals. Therefore a certain number of contacts are acceptable whilst others must be avoided.
Zinc and Bituminous Felt Membranes
Bituminous felt is prohibited for use in direct contact with zinc because of the risk of water being retained. This constitutes a corrosion risk since the water cannot be removed from the felt.
The issue is also with ageing of Bitumen under UV, which leads to Bitumen oxidation. In this case water becomes acidic and corrosive to zinc and the protective coatings.
Compatible timber | Incompatible timber |
---|---|
Pine | Larch |
Spruce | Oak |
Scots pine | Chestnut |
Poplar | Red cedar |
Douglas fir | |
White cedar | |
Gum tree | |
All wood varieties with a pH < 5 |
Compatible metals | Incompatible metals |
---|---|
Lead | Copper |
Aluminium | Steel (Non galvanised) |
Galvanised Steel | |
Stainless steel |
Table of glues and mastics | |
---|---|
Compatible products * | Incompatible products * |
Polyurethanes | Acetic silicones |
Non-acetic silicones | Acid epoxides |
MS Polymers | Ureas / melanin / phenol-formaldehyde (wood or panel gluing) |
Acrylics (depending on the reagent used) |
* always refer to the manufacturer's notice
For other products, please consult with us.