A traditional standing seam system using Aperam UGINOX Patina K44 stainless steel has been specified for the new £7 million Fort William Gaelic medium primary school in Caol. The school, built by Robertson Construction Northern, is part of a £36 million programme covering construction of three primary schools in Fort William. Metal roofing and cladding specialist HL Metals undertook the stainless steel installation which extends from the roof into walls on buildings which have gabled and hipped roofs.
UGINOX Patina K44 is a ‘terne-coated’ bistabilized ferritic stainless steel with an electro-tinned tin coating on both sides. The grade of stainless steel, with the absence of nickel offers a far greater price stability than more expensive austenitic grades without compromising the high corrosion resistance for which the metal is renowned. The inclusion of Molybdenum in the alloy makes it ideal for coastal and aggressive environments and suitable for use in compact roof and façade specifications without underside ventilation. The ‘terne-coated’ finish weathers to adopt the matt grey appearance, like that of lead. The low coefficient of expansion (half that of zinc) enables it to be used in longer tray lengths.