Using zinc instead of aluminium in residential architecture

Over the years we've discussed how important it is for us, as residential architects, to consider the environmental impact of what we do. This is a subject which was recently highlighted by the remarkable Planet Earth II series, in which focus was placed on how cities impact the natural surroundings. If you happened to see this show then you will know how important it is to always seek out the use of sustainable materials in buildings and structures. At Coffey Architects we have always encouraged our London based team take this kind of approach. As there's an increased level of focus on this subject at the moment we felt it would be appropriate to have a closer look at one of the ways in which we are able to use sustainable materials in architecture.To do the above we'd like to look at a recent project in York. The thing that makes it stand out is we were able to use rolled zinc instead of aluminium in creating an extension for a home.Due to the budget concerns we all, to an extent, experience in this day and age, aluminium is normally an economically easy decision to make for materials. There is no avoiding the fact that it is cheaper than zinc.This cost benefit is, however, strictly short term. Zinc is a far tougher material that is better able to resist wear and tear. Additionally, and most importantly, it typically has a lifespan of some 100 years for use. Rolled zinc is also 100% recyclable - unlike aluminium.When you consider that zinc uses only a fraction of the resources required to create aluminium - the process only requires a quarter of the energy - then the benefits of using it are all the more clear. We, as a society, need to stop considering the short term costs as a priority over the long term benefits of better managed resources.There will be times where using a less long term material such as aluminium will be unavoidable. This is, if not ideal, then at the least understandable. We shall, however, always remain committed to seeking an informed way of using sustainable materials which better protect the environment in our residential architectural work. This makes us one of the leading architects in London.