The Sunday Mail
IT is budget friendly, versatile and even colourful. Is it any wonder this popular exterior material is making inroads indoors?
Typically used on roofs, garages and sheds, corrugated metal has traditionally been thought of as a humble outdoor-only material. But as people increasingly seek sustainable materials and more creative ways to express their personal style in their interiors, corrugated metal has emerged as an offbeat alternative to drywall.
Corrugated metal’s flexibility, both physical and aesthetic, means lots of options for inside use; ceilings, walls, staircases and furniture, for starters. The material is also available in an array of finishes and sizes to harmonise with a gamut of styles – from rustic to industrial.
Walls
Corrugated metal is made in panels typically between 60 centimetres and one metre wide and 2, 4 metres long or longer, making it a great solution for cladding walls. One consideration is whether to go with new or reclaimed panels. The decision will be based on the look you are trying to achieve and the project requirements.
Reclaimed panels usually have some rust and a pleasant patina and are specifically sought out for these characteristics. The advantage of buying new is that the panels can be ordered in a gauge and profile suitable for the project’s application and support requirements. Panels are typically fastened to wood or metal stud framing or oriented strand board.
If they are being installed over existing drywall, they need to be fastened to the wall at stud locations.
Ceilings
Light from this kitchen skylight plays on the gleaming, undulating surface, making the ceiling the visual focus of the room.
Stairs
Corrugated metal panels are flexible enough to navigate the tight twists of this spiral staircase. One corrugated panel can be bent enough to create a full circle or just a gentle arc, it all depends on the gauge and profile of the metal. Show your plans to the manufacturer to get the right material for your curved project.
Cabinetry
Corrugated metal paneling is not only for cladding wall and ceiling surfaces. With its durability and easy maintenance (you just need to wipe it with water), it makes a great kitchen cabinet facing. With cabinet fronts, the tricky part is how to fasten and treat the edge of the material.
Furniture
Set no limits with corrugated metal panels. It looks great on furniture too. Corrugated metal panels are fairly easy to cut. A saw blade for cutting steel is the usual recommendation. Painted finishes are popular as well. However, galvanised panels do need a primer specifically for steel before you can paint them. Do not think that all new panels have to look newSome manufacturers can treat the panels to look weathered. – houzz.com
