Metal has been used in architecture, as a roofing and cladding material, for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptian temple doors were clad with copper. Buddhist skyscrapers in the third century B.C. were tiled with copper.
Copper roofs have surmounted European architectural masterpieces for centuries, from medieval cathedrals to the great civic buildings of nineteenth century London and Paris.
Zinc has been used in building since the 1700s. The celebrated beauty of the Paris skyline owes much to its grey zinc roofscape.
The newcomer stainless steel has been applied in building since the 1920s. It is the material that defines the skyscraper and the modern era and it famously clads the Chrysler and Empire State buildings in New York.
Today, these metals are enjoying renewed appreciation from architects, builders and homeowners who increasingly value their beauty, flexibility and cost-effectiveness - qualities uniquely matched to the demands of modern building.
