Compatibility with Building Materials
The use of aluminium in building construction involves its close association with many other materials. Aluminium is compatible with most, but there are a few which require some special attention. The table below summarises the more common building materials with which aluminium may be associated and the treatment required to ensure lasting success.
MATERIAL
| COMPATIBILITY
| TREATMENT |
Iron and Steel
| In exposed applications there will be attack | Coat steel surface with a resin-based aluminium or zinc pigmented paint.
|
| Galvanised Steel | Satisfactory provided the atmospheric conditions are not likely to break down the zinc coating | No protection required. Preferable to use soft aluminium for flashing. |
Lead
| Very little action
| Must be plated with nickel and/or chromium. Run-off water should always drain from aluminium -
never from copper to aluminium.
|
Copper & Brass
| Severe corrosive action
| |
Cadmium Plate
| Satisfactory provided the plating is of high quality.
| |
Nickel/Chrome Plate
| Satisfactory provided the plating is unbroken.
| |
Stainless Steel
| Satisfactory
| |
Damp or Unseasoned timber
| Not satisfactory
| Timber must be primed with zinc chromate undercoat and sealed with a suitable protective paint
|
Plaster, Terrazzo, Cement
| Until set severe corrosive action occurs
| Exposed faces of aluminium must be protected.
|