Sheet metal is no longer just a decorative fixture in art deco architecture. Modern innovations have made this material more accessible for public use. In construction, sheet metal has taken center stage as a viable roofing material, as durable siding and even as a beautiful polished finish on many parts of our home.
Want to learn about the possibilities this particularly versatile material offers? Roofmasters Roofing and Sheet Metal discusses these basic types of sheet metal and what they’re used for.
Hot and Cold-Rolled Steel
These are the most common products demanded of sheet metal fabrication companies: hot and cold-rolled steel. The main difference between the two is in their finish.
Hot-rolled steel is produced by placing raw steel through 1,400-degree rollers that malleate the metal into sheets 1 to 5/16th of an inch. This type is easy to work with. However, its manufacture often leaves small but noticeable imperfections on the metal surface.
On the other hand, cold-rolled steel is surface-treated with heat after the rolling process. This extra step removes any of the flaws typically found in its hot-rolled counterpart. Cold-rolled steel has a smooth and polished finish that’s perfect for producing roofing materials and other exterior fixtures.
Copper
Copper and alloys of copper such as brass and bronze have been used in construction, electronics and jewelry for decades. Copper is a relatively softer metal, making it very easy to work with. Its distinct color stands out and often sets it apart from other types of sheet metal. Additionally, its high conductivity and ductility make it a perfect vehicle for transporting electric currents in circuits.
Aluminum
Aluminum sheet metal can be used by roofing contractors in metal roofing projects. It’s often softer than cast iron, making it easier to work into different shapes and sizes, but comparably as durable.
Aluminum by itself resists reacting with other elements. This means it’s far less corrosive than other metals, which is a reason aluminum foil is used in food preparation.
With over 40 years of experience in the industry, Roofmasters Roofing and Sheet Metal can help your construction project with all its sheet metal needs. Call us today at (785) 727-7575 and get a free estimate. We serve Hays and Colby, KS, and all nearby areas.