Westlake Publishing Forums

Oh Bill.
Yes!
I have a couple more roofs to do.
MJinTN

Marty, maybe you can try this technique on some future roof.

Bernhard, It is simple, but experiment a little before jumping in with both feet because the aluminum can react differently and the amount of dilution changes the rate of "weathering". It may not look like much is happening for a while, but if left too long, the bleach can eat through thin foil.

That looks very realistic, and doesn't seem to take much effort.

Bernhard

I wouldn't want to pay the fuel bill!
MJinTN

Thanks Bill!
Couldn't figure out how to reply directly.
This works.
Wish I knew about this 2 weeks ago.
Mj

This was an experiment I tried several years ago to lightly oxidize a standing seam metal roof (aluminum) on a general store model. I liked the results:


I didn't have ferric chloride, and I didn't particularly want to try it as it can very quickly etch the aluminum way beyond what I wanted.

I tried ordinary chlorine bleach to see if it might do anything. It did, and if the thin aluminum was left in the slightly diluted solution too long , it did etch holes through the metal.

I think I left the pieces in the bleach for about an hour and then rinsed them in plain water and changed the water several times to make sure the etching had completely stopped.
I liked the results, not corroded or heavily rusted, but just lost its shine and showing  mild corrosion if you look closely.

Beautiful work. Your machine shop certainly shows some careful research into vintage machinery and the belt drive systems that powered them. And your careful lighting and photography makes a very pleasing presentation. Thanks for sharing.

Stuart

He says he doesn't have a car. But he does have a locomotive! Do you have to pay to use the rail network when you travel on it?

Bernhard

Thank you all.
None of it is suitable for outside for me.
I guess it could be put outside but I'm. It going to.
MJinTN

Marty,
That is beautiful!!  Is it suitable for outdoor use?