Cladding systems are external surfaces attached to a building’s façade, generating an airtight structure. Their main goal is to protect buildings from weather conditions such as strong winds and heavy snow.
Cladding systems also provide thermal and acoustic insulation and prevent fire from spreading. Metal, like aluminum, steel, and copper, is one of the most common materials used in cladding systems. Metal cladding systems perform the same functions other types of cladding do – which is to protect the exterior and interior of a building – but in addition to structural protection, metal cladding can also be used for aesthetic improvements. Also, unlike other types of cladding materials, metal cladding can also be applied in a building’s roofing. Below are the advantages of using metal cladding systems in protecting a building’s façade.
Durability
The major benefit of installing metal cladding systems is to increase a building’s protection and stability against wind loads, flying objects, sunlight, pollution, and water damage. Some metal cladding systems make use of honeycomb panels, which offer solidity but requires minimal resources to build. The hexagonal or honeycomb structure makes the panels strong, enabling equal weight distribution on all sides.
Versatility
While the primary advantage of using metal cladding is that they provide strength and protection to a structure, there are also aesthetic benefits to consider. Metal panels are available in many different styles and sizes to accommodate the intended application. Metal is a highly malleable material, offering endless design possibilities.
It can be easily bent, curved, stretched, or twisted to create complex and interesting shapes. Many types of finishes can be added to a metal’s surface to accentuate the natural metal finish or add depth and texture, while offering corrosion resistance. Metal cladding can dramatically enhance the look of a building’s exterior to make it more attractive, raising the market value of the property.
Lightweight
Unlike concrete, stone, and other cladding materials, metal panels are very light. Using metal cladding offers rigidity but it can also provide a less complex installation process, enabling ease of transport and installation.
Cost
Using metal cladding instead of other materials such as concrete and masonry can significantly lower costs. Because metal panels are light, they are much faster and easier to install, hence, lowering labor and construction costs. Metal panels are resistant to harsh weather conditions, mold and mildew formation and require minimum maintenance and repair. Metal cladding systems also provide adequate heat insulation, helping increase a building’s energy efficiency and reduce electricity bills.
Sustainability
Metal is a recyclable material, which makes it more environmentally friendly than other types of cladding materials. At the end of their useful life, metals can be easily recycled. This helps reduce the amount of energy required to create new materials and the amount of material that goes to the waste stream, hence, also minimizes carbon footprint in the environment.
In summary, metal cladding systems offer many benefits. They are a great choice in ensuring a building’s durability and strength and aesthetic value while allowing companies to save on installation and maintenance costs.
