Roofing and Building Center

What is Corrugated Metal

Posted on December 13, 2009 by Samuel Cheeseman ----- Advertisement

Corrugated metal is the term used to describe metal which has been fed through rolling dies to achieve corrugation. The metal used is most often steel, aluminium or iron with steel usually being the most popular. The purpose of the corrugation process is to increase the bending strength of the metal in the direction the corrugations are facing. The bending strength in directions across the corrugations is not strengthened by the process. The procedure known as Roll Forming is used to achieve the corrugations. The metal is passed through the rolling dies and then cut at the required length. The standard corrugation pattern used has a rounded shape and will take the form of the letter ‘S’ if the edge is viewed from the side. The shape of the corrugations can be changed by using a different set of rolling dies.

Usage

Corrugated metal is lightweight and also easy to transport. It is used frequently in commercial and industrial buildings particularly as corrugated metal roofing, corrugated metal siding and sometimes corrugated metal cladding. Corrugated sheet metal is strong, durable and can also be somewhat corrosion resistant if treated prior to use. Although processes such as galvanizing can be used to reduce the effects of corrosion the corrugated sheet metal roofing will still rust after a number of years. The effects of corrosion can be increased in areas close to the coast or where acid rainfall occurs. A corrugated metal roof is most likely to be found on large factories or agricultural buildings although these kinds of metal roofs are also now used on residential properties. Residential roofs will look different to commercial ones constructed using corrugated metal sheeting and can be designed to have the appearance of other less durable but more aesthetically pleasing roofing materials. A roof produced from corrugated metals is an increasingly popular choice due to the durability of the materials along with their lightweight design and ease of installation. The minimal maintenance requirements of a corrugated metal sheet over a number of years means that these materials are very often the most economical choice.

Corrugated metal sheets are a safe and secure choice of roofing material in most environments. This kind of steel roofing has considerable strength and impact resistance while also possessing the highest levels of fire resistance making them desirable in many kinds of commercial buildings. They are also effective in areas which are likely to experience termite infestation. These corrugated metal panels have been in use since the mid 1800’s when they were originally invented. Their durability, versatility and ease to work with should ensure that they remain a popular choice for use in both industrial and residential buildings for many years into the future.

Although corrugated roofing is the most common usage there are also many other roles for these metals including the production of corrugated metal pipe for culverts and storm sewers as well as many types of corrugated metal hose which can withstand very high pressures and are effective for transferring liquids and gases in industrial environments.