Terne II
Classic Terne-Coated Steel

Terne II is a new and improved version of historic Terne metal, which was used extensively throughout both colonial and modernistic America. While it retains all the time-tested qualities of the original, Terne II has improved capability for resisting corrosion in all environments. Terne II also has excellent formability, solderability, and affinity for paint.

Terne II offers its enhanced corrosion-resisting capability without compromising mechanical characteristics. It can be used in flatlock, standing seam, vertical wall designs and virtually any other application in which original Terne has been used. It is strong and ductile, having high yield and tensile strengths as well as workability. This new material can easily be formed with conventional roofing tools.

With Terne II roofing, it is advisable to paint the material as soon as conditions permit. Oxide formation is slower than with the original Terne and the wait for proper painting conditions provides substantially less risk. The new material is coated with Follansbee’s new ZT® alloy, a combination of zinc and tin. This coating is designed not only as a barrier but also to be anodic to the steel substrate and reduce the potential for oxidation before painting.

The traditional oil-based paints long required on original Terne are not recommended for application on Terne II. Follansbee’s Rapidri paint with its faster drying time and ease of application is much superior to the old painting system. The Rapidri acrylic paints are aesthetically pleasing while offering enhanced durability and color retention. Speedier contractor turnaround is accomplished since the state of the art acrylic/ceramic enamel paint can be spray applied.

Because Terne II is easily soldered, it provides weather-tight joints around roof perimeters and penetrations. As a result, we do not have to rely on sealants, which have a limited life and require maintenance and are assured that these areas of possible water penetration will remain watertight.

Terne II is an excellent material for restoration projects since it replicates many of the older roofs of Terne which have served through many decades.