Click here for a printable copy

Before selecting architectural metals for any project, it is first necessary to define the environment in which the building will be located.  Among the factors that must be considered are: 

• Atmospheric contaminants/pollution

• Proximity to salt water

• Nearby application of deicing salts

• Airborne abrasives (sand, soil, debris)

• Ultraviolet exposure

• Humidity range

• Externally induced fire risk (airborne sparks or brush fires)

• Frequency of maintenance on the part of the owner

As a rule, titanium is extremely durable, corrosion resistant and fire resistant.  When properly specified, fabricated and installed, titanium will last indefinitely in the most severe environments such as those described below: 

• Buildings subjected to saltwater spray

• Structures in close proximity to deicing salt use

• Facilities that will experience little, if any cleaning and maintenance

Grade 1 Titanium, which offers a good balance between formability and strength, is suitable for most applications.  However, other grades with higher mechanical properties may be considered, as design requirements should warrant.  Once a grade has been selected, a finish choice can be made to create the desired visual effect.  We recommend the use of uncoated material that will last indefinitely without degradation.  Typically. Titanium has a variable, grainy surface that lacks visual consistency.  This may be desirable in pursuit of a random "tile" effect in building panels, in which case a mill finish should be specified.  However, if uniformity is desired, our InvariTech product has been designed to provide the flattest, most visually uniform surfaces possible.  While there is variability in any manufactured product, even painted panels, our products provide a higher degree of consistency than commonly available metals.

For additional information relating to properties, size ranges, fabrication, installation and maintenance, please refer to the Invari product data sheets that accompany the samples.  You may also learn more about titanium at Uniti Titanium's website.