Metal Cladding

About Metal Cladding 

Cladding and facades are not only a matter of appeal. Their role is to envelop a building into a protective case, and many factors need to be considered to ensure the best performance. Depending on the local climate, weatherproofing against the outside elements might be the key feature to look for. For example, stone cladding is a popular material used in cladding and facades.

The sturdiness and strength of the shell protect from damaging the internal structure of the walls. Finally, cladding acts as a pest barrier.

Some construction systems such as bricks rammed earth, or aerated concrete doesn’t need cladding. Those structures work well with render plaster systems for weather sealing, but can also be cladded for additional protection, if desired. 

Metal cladding comes in an array of options, including different materials and shapes. It makes a durable and sustainable alternative to other wall coverings.

Advantages of Metal Cladding 

• Water resistance
• Rot and pest resistance
• Fire resistance
• Wind load ratings
• Durability 
• Ease of installation
• Quick and easy repair
• Low maintenance
• Thermal properties
• Paintability

Types of Metal Wall Cladding

Metal cladding features different materials, such as zinc, copper, aluminium, and steel, as well as a variety of sizes and designs. It’s available as vertical or horizontal boards, in a series of overlapping panels and tiles. 

Aluminium Cladding

Aluminium is a strong yet lightweight material with high formability and a long lifespan. It’s exceptionally waterproof, making it a good choice for coastal homes, easy to repaint and maintain. While non-renewable, aluminium is reusable and recyclable and also energy-efficient to manufacture.

Zinc Cladding 

Zinc is a commonly used material in modern construction due to its versatility. It is soft, flexible, extremely durable, and resistant to oxidation and fire. Being recyclable, non-toxic, and energy-efficient to produce, makes it a sustainable choice. Zinc cladding is also low-maintenance, with an average lifespan of up to 80 years. 

Copper Cladding

Copper develops a rich patina and character with age, with bronze tones turning to iridescent brown and greenish hues. This material is durable and timeless, yet lightweight, with a long lifecycle with no maintenance required. 

Corten Steel Cladding

Corten also called weathering steel, is an element-resistant compound. It’s more immune to atmospheric weathering than other types of steel, with twice the tensile strength. Corten steel cladding forms a protective oxide film, which continually renews itself over time. 

However, it’s not naturally rust-proof. Corten’s notable characteristic is easy blending with any kind of design style and surroundings. 

Corrugated Cladding

Corrugated steel is durable, strong, and lightweight, easy to maintain and long-lasting. Its timeless wave-like pattern adds visual dimension to the structure, providing depth and texture in a variety of colours.

Cladding Systems

Metal panels can be joined together and installed on a building in a wide variety of ways. Each cladding system offers specific benefits in terms of complexity and aesthetics. 

• Standing seam cladding: One of the standard systems is characterised by robust folded connections between panels and concealed fixing details. Standing seam systems can be used with different materials, including steel, aluminium, zinc and Corten steel.
• Snaplock: Simplified version of standing seam comes with a similar ribbed profile, and a clicking joint system, easier to install. 
• Flatlock and shingle: Flatlock panels lock together to create a thin profile. When placed in reverse order, they boast deeper express lines.
• Interlocking metal cladding: Prominent joints provide an attractive appearance with a variety of panels and design patterns.
• Cassette: This open-jointed system is perfect for use over substantial areas. The cassettes can be bent and fixed with invisible clips for a flat, contemporary look. 
• Custom: Metal cladding is also available in the form of a bespoke system, developed by specialist manufacturers at a higher cost. 

Finishes

Finishes can have a notable effect on both performance and aesthetics of metal cladding systems. 

• Sandblasted: This finish provides a smooth, texture-free, matte surface. It needs specialised paints or similar coatings for rust protection.  
• Brushed: Dull-polished and brushed metal boast a satin finish with a subtle grain. The levels of abrasive action employed in the process determine effect intensity.
• Mirrored: Highly polished surface with a mirror-like effect is the most reflective of all finishes. Its attractive aesthetics require a high level of maintenance.
• Powder-coated: Powder coating provides a protective layer with a uniform matte appeal, available in an unlimited choice of colours.
• Engine turned: This finish is characterised by the fine geometric decoration inscribed into the metal.
• Patterned: Intricate patterns, complex colour combinations, and unique detailing distinguish custom-made finishes.

Maintenance

In contrast to timber cladding, metal versions require little to no maintenance. Coatings such as oils, varnishes, and paints, on average, require more overall care. Some options, such as colour steel cladding, come with a built-in finish, while others require additional finishing layers. 

Weathering-finish materials, such as Corten steels, are almost maintenance-free.

Things to Consider Before Buying Metal Cladding

The choice of suitable cladding requires considering specific factors, such as different configurations, appearances and colours. It’s good to know what parts of the structure are more exposed to heat, sun, cold, or rain. 

The cladding configuration will define the appearance of the building while providing the necessary protection from extreme temperatures.

Multi-coloured metal cladding can look unique and attractive.

It’s recommended to remove dirt and stains regularly. A damaged piece should be replaced as soon as possible. 

If you need assistance to find the right metal cladding for your home or office, ArchiPro provides a connection to the various professionals, ready to assist with all requirements and questions. Simply click "Contact supplier" on the product's page, or visit the supplier's website directly from the product's page.