In these contemporary times of construction and architecture design, metal cladding is one of the most durable and stylish ways to protect and decorate an existing building. This technique has spread and gained a lot of popularity, looking at its aesthetic appeal and the immense functional advantages it bestows.
Be it commercial properties or residential homes, metal cladding is sure to be part of the many designs or construction processes that many architects and builders today use. It brings together form, function, and ideal sustainability, which is the best choice for strong and pleasing architecture.
What is Metal Cladding?
Metal cladding is a construction method of covering the structure’s external surface with thin sheets of metal panels. These panels are attached to the underlying structure to form a protective yet decorative skin. Their primary purpose is to protect the underlying building structure from damage caused by rain, wind, or ultraviolet rays, with the secondary purpose of becoming an aesthetic interpretation for the overall building.
This not only improves the look but also fortifies the material’s strength and durability. Provided the materials chosen and the design worked out, metal cladding can bring both appearance and efficiency, which blends well with modern architecture is demanding more and more.
Materials Used for Metal Cladding
Steel
Steel, especially galvanised or stainless steel, has exceptional power and resistance to impact. Galvanised steel is made by applying zinc over the steel. This will create a barrier to prevent corrosion and ultimately allow for longevity. When you have uses of material in commercial or industrial environments that demand longevity and durability, you will want to go with galvanized steel.
Copper
Copper has a classic elegance and develops a naturally occurring patina that ranges from shiny orange to a historically green colour. This is why copper can be seen in many heritage buildings, high-end architecture, and is prominently featured on facades, supporting a rich aesthetic paradigm and long-term capital value.
Aluminium
Lightweight, corrosion-resistant yet flexible, aluminium can form the most intricate architectural designs. It can be anodised or powder-coated in a range of colours and textures, making it highly versatile in both residential and commercial applications.
Zinc:
Zinc is a strong material with good anti-corrosion properties and is often used in metal cladding because of the longevity of both the material and its favourable appearance. Zinc develops a patina over time, eventually acquiring the characteristics of a grey or blue-grey material. Zinc is one of the most recyclable materials and is also environmentally sustainable for residential and commercial building practices, especially in contemporary architecture.
Metal Cladding Systems in Building
Metal cladding systems are extremely popular for modern construction. Metal cladding systems are appealing as they combine high performance with a beautiful appearance to create a unique solution for the modern commercial sector. Metal fittings are used in non load bearing structures as protective envelopes around buildings to guard against the elements while providing various site specific architectural finishes such as rainscreen, curtainwall and facade.
The following is a brief understanding of the key metal cladding systems in building. The summary draws upon guidance from industry best practice.
| System | Installation Complexity | Visual Appearance | Typical Materials | Key Benefits |
| Standing Seam | Moderate | Sleek, minimal | Al, Zn, Ti, Steel | Concealed fixings, weatherproof |
| Snaplock | Low | Ribbed, clean | Al, Zn, Steel | Easy install, cost-effective |
| Interlocking | Moderate | Express joints, smooth | Al, Zn, Steel | Flexible layout, bold lines |
| Flatlock/ Metal Shingles | Moderate | Flush or textured | Al, Zn, Steel | Flexible, decorative |
| Cassette | High | Large, flat panels | Al, Steel | Large spans, modern look |
| Custom | Variable | Bespoke | Any | Tailored to project needs |
Advantages of Metal Cladding
- Weather Resistance: Metal is an impermeable barrier to rain, wind, and UV rays.
- Fire Safe: The majority of metals are non-combustible and therefore provide more reliable fire resistance than pre-existing siding materials (including existing siding materials). Therefore; better fire resistance than ordinary siding materials.
- Less Maintenance: Metal panels require very little ongoing maintenance, unlike wood or cement-based cladding.
- Design Flexibility: Metal cladding can provide the perfect finishing touch to any design intent due to the diversity of colours, finishes, and textures.
- Sustainable: Many metal cladding systems incorporate recycled materials making them part of the sustainable approach to building.
- Longevity: When installed correctly, metal cladding materials have a life span that outlasts the building with minimal wear and tear from the environment or corrosion.
Applications of Metal Cladding
Commercial Buildings
Metal cladding materials are widely used in commercial buildings such as offices, shopping malls, factories, and warehouses. They are appreciated for their strength, low maintenance, and professional appearance. In general, they withstand rough usage in high-traffic areas and give a nice modern look to the building, consistent with brand identity and functional design.
Residential Homes
Metal cladding in contemporary residential architecture provides a clean aesthetic with a touch of minimalism. The weather-resistant qualities of materials like aluminium and zinc would contribute to energy efficiency and low maintenance, two things that play an important role in having contemporary homes that value both form and function.
Public Infrastructure
Applications of metal cladding also extend to airports, stadiums, schools, and government buildings. They are required to withstand heavy and punishing scores of weather, forceful acts of nature, and signature designs. The spirit of buildings gets translated into loud, innovative design, while the metal cladding stands up to weather and provides protection against wear.
Architectural Buildings
In addition to covering large areas with cladding, accent metal is regularly incorporated into facades, columns, canopies, and balconies. In these applications, it highlights certain elements of the building, creating depth and contrast, and imparting a premium feel; all the while, beautiful cladding retains the existing installations intact.
How to Install Metal Cladding?
Preparing the Surface
Clear all surfaces of the structure or framework exterior to it, leveling it up so it can be eligible to carry a load for cladding systems. Correct all uneven conditions before proceeding to prevent misalignment from occurring.
Measurement and Cutting
Measure the area to be clad accurately, and cut the metal panels to fit the design specifications. With this, installation comes very smooth, neatly finished.
Panel Mounting
Connect the metal panels to the structure by means of appropriate fasteners, brackets or a sub-frame system. Choice depends upon the metal, panel design, and layout of the building concerned.
Waterproofing
Thereafter, seal joints with applicable sealants or weather-proofing materials for prevention of water penetration and for thermal expansion capability. This is the key factor in achieving lasting performance.
Texturing
Edge trims, caps, or other such elements complete the picture or enhance the appearance of exposed edges and protect them. Some panels also receive protective coatings at this stage.
Metal cladding choice considerations
- Location: Corrosion resistance becomes important in coastal or humid locations, when either aluminium or stainless steel is used.
- Budget: While aluminium and steel can be more budget-friendly, you could also go for copper or zinc if your project seeks something more high-grade.
- Design Vision: When there needs to be a focus on aesthetics, you can consider brushed or perforated or patterned finishes.
- Structural Considerations: The load-bearing aspect might change the choice between light and heavy materials for the building.
- Sustainability Goals: Look for metals that are recycled or recyclable to meet green building standards.
Experts at Brick & Bolt help the clients to find feasible and efficient recommendations of cladding systems by assessing all these things.
Metal Cladding Maintenance and Care
Regular upkeep through preventive maintenance enhances the longevity of your cladding system and preserves its stylish look.
- Inspection: Inspection after severe weather for loose fasteners, sealant damage, or corrosion.
- Painting: Depending on exposure, some finishes will need touching up or even re-coating after a few years.
Consistent preventive maintenance ensures your cladding system lasts longer and retains its attractive appearance.
Key takeaways
Metal cladding is much more than a protective outer cover; however, it proves to be a very smart, stylish, and sustainable solution that very deftly complements the current construction goals. On offering the perfect concoction of durability, efficiency, and design freedom, it is perfect for designing a high-rise office or a minimalistic home.
At Brick & Bolt, we help you integrate top-quality materials like metal cladding seamlessly into your construction projects. Our specialists ensure precision in every tiny detail-from selection to installation.