Corrugated Sheet Metal: Uses and Characteristics

Corrugated Sheet Metal: What It Is and What It’s For

Corrugated sheet metal gets its name from the typical "Greek" corrugated profile that characterizes it. It is a corrugated metal sheet with high mechanical resistance but at the same time lightness: thanks to its structure, the weight that rests on the sheet is evenly distributed over the entire surface, thus maximizing the load that the sheet can bear.

For this reason, it is highly appreciated in the construction field and in the carpentry sector: it is a simple, effective, and economical solution for creating resistant and durable coverings.

The main uses of corrugated sheets are for the following structures:

• Roofs and coverings, especially for industrial sheds;
• Large span floors and structural floors;
• False ceilings;
• Facade claddings.

The range of applications is therefore very broad and covers both the industrial and civil sectors.

How Thick Is Corrugated Sheet Metal?

Thickness is one of the characteristic elements of corrugated sheet metal. It is a very variable characteristic, which can range from 0.5 mm to 1.5 mm: how to choose the sheet with the right thickness?

To make the correct choice, it is necessary to consider the intended use of this structural element: the construction context and the specific needs of the project must guide the decisions, in order to ensure the best resistance and durability of the structures.

For example, the coverings of residential buildings made of corrugated sheet metal require a lower thickness compared to the load-bearing sheets of industrial or commercial buildings, which are meant to withstand greater loads. As for facade claddings, on the other hand, there are no substantial differences; however, another factor to consider is the material from which the sheets are made.

What Materials Is Corrugated Sheet Metal Made Of?

Corrugated sheets are made from laminates of various metals.

The main materials used are:

• Steel – preferred for permanent installations, thanks to its resistance over time and its longevity;
  
  
• Copper – mainly appreciated for the aesthetic effect, it gives a refined look to buildings;
  
  
• Aluminum/Zinc – very resistant to corrosion, suitable for constructions in coastal areas or highly polluted areas thanks to its ability to reflect light and heat;
  
  
• Aluminum – light and high-performing, it is the element with which corrugated sheet metal best expresses its potential.

In addition to these metals, on some occasions, corrugated sheets can be made in composite materials or other substances, chosen based on needs and purposes of use.

Besides the material, the shape of the corrugated sheet metal is also a peculiarity to consider when proceeding to install this element in constructions: let's discover in the following paragraph what the main types are.

How Many Types of Corrugated Sheets Are There?

Each construction project is unique, and the choice of the type of corrugated sheet metal to use varies according to the structure and its context: the shapes of the sheets to be used must be evaluated from time to time by professionals.

Although, as said, every case is different from the other, the types of corrugated sheets can be grouped into 4 large macro categories:

• Flat = is the ideal type of corrugated sheet metal for public buildings;
  
  
• Perforated = endowed with great aesthetic but also functional yield, this model of sheet is mostly used in situations where a certain ventilation must be maintained;
  
  
• Crimped = ideal for all design realizations;
  
  
• Curved = perfect for old and irregular structures, but able to adapt also to more modern buildings.

Why Choose Corrugated Sheet Metal?

Arriving at this last paragraph, it’s clear how the use of corrugated sheet metal is extremely advantageous in the construction field.

The main benefits of this structural component are indeed:

• Lightness – the main characteristic of these sheets, becomes its main advantage of use;
  
  
• Resistance – corrugated sheets are extremely resistant to mechanical stresses, heavy weights, atmospheric agents, chemicals, and frost;
  
  
• Cost-effectiveness – the cost of a structure made of corrugated sheets is lower than that of traditional structures;
  
  
• Aesthetics – a roof or a facade of corrugated sheets has a great visual yield;
  
  
• Quick installation – the installation is very simple and fast;
  
  
• Low maintenance – the maintenance costs of this material are mostly null;
  
  
• Excellent thermal and acoustic insulation.

Using corrugated sheet metal turns out to be very convenient from every point of view, and all this is contributing to its enormous success in the construction world.

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