The innovative Aged Metal (Evolution™) range of coatings from Powdertech Corby is fascinating in that it can look both contemporary, meeting the current trend for realistic metal patination or an industrial look, as well as being highly appropriate for the restoration of a 13th century Abbey.
Iona Abbey on the beautiful Hebridean island of Iona has a long history of welcoming guests and has been refurbished with a view to extending its hospitality into the winter months with improved heating, insulation and facilities to suit people with disabilities. This is a £3.5m project funded largely by donations from across the world to The Iona Community.
Following an artistic tradition
The Abbey has an artistic heritage as well as a religious one and houses Scotland’s finest collection of early medieval carved stones and crosses. Colin McNeish of WHAM Architecture has reflected this tradition by using the symbol of wild geese which form part of the Iona Community’s logo as inspiration for canopies over the entrance to the refectory, combining an artistic influence with the functional aspects of refurbishment.
The architectural metalwork was constructed by Metalwork UK, specialists in structural steel and heritage projects, and an authentically aged yet welcoming appearance in both colour and texture was the design vision for this part of the restorative work.
The best metals and coatings for an island environment
The original concept for the canopies and the mezzanine infills was to use Corten steel and Corten steel mesh. However, Metalwork UK advised that in an external environment, rainwater could cause run off and staining from Corten. An alternative solution was sought, and one which needed to recognise the marine environment within which the Abbey is situated, and the need for protection against corrosion and wind-born particle abrasion.
Mild steel was the favoured option for the interior metalwork and galvanized steel for the external canopies. Perforated steel manufacturers, RMIG, together with Metalwork UK contacted Powdertech to discuss a high-performance coating which would give a rusted look. Powdertech supplied a range of samples from its Aged Metal ‘Rust’ collection and ‘Diamond Mine’ was chosen, reflecting the natural rusting of steel with texture and sparkle whilst providing high performance corrosion protection. “Diamond Mine’ could be used on both types of steel and produce the same effect.
Design for full protection
For the pre-treatment and powder coating process to fully protect the structures, particular design aspects are always critical, including the need to eliminate any sharp edges and water traps and to ensure that jigging points are correctly positioned. The mild and galvanized steel components were primed with a zinc-rich primer before coating to give added protection. The high-performance weather resistance afforded by the Evolution finish will protect the underlying metal for twenty-five years or more.
For more details on Powdertech’s coatings visit www.powdertechcorby.co.uk