Wall cladding has become a crucial part of modern construction that offers protection from the environment and enhances the overall look. There are a wide range of wall cladding options available, among which ACP is highly preferred for its superior characteristics, properties, applications, and values it serves. This blog will explore ACP wall cladding in detail, which could help you understand if this is the wall panel you are looking for.
What is ACP Wall Cladding?
ACP (Aluminum Composite Panel) wall cladding is a sheet that consists of two thin layers of aluminium enclosing a core material. This composite panel provides a lightweight, durable, and aesthetically pleasing look for both indoor and outdoor surfaces of the wall. It is available in a wide variety of options and adds more value to the building.
Types of ACP Sheets Used in Construction
Based on Thickness
| Thickness of ACP | Features and Applications |
| 2mm | It’s the thinnest, lightest, and flexible ACP sheet panel that is ideal for interior applications, such as in partitions and non-load-bearing walls. |
| 3mm | It offers both strength and design flexibility, making it suitable for both interior and exterior applications. It can be used as facades, signage, and decorative panels for mid-range projects. |
| 4mm | It offers more rigidity and durability, making it suitable for both exterior and interior applications. It can be used in facades, cladding, and curtain walls in commercial buildings and mid- to high-rise structures. |
| 5mm | Both 5mm and 6mm ACP sheets are thicker panels, which have the necessary strength, stability, and soundproofing properties. These sheets are ideal for high-rise residential buildings, commercial complexes, and high-load-bearing structures. |
| 6mm |
Based on Finish
- Solid Finish- This ACP sheet cladding offers a smooth, uniform finish with a consistent colour across the surface. They offer a wide range of colours, which give a contemporary look to your exterior and interior wall surfaces. It can be used for cladding, facades, and signage in commercial buildings, office spaces, and residential buildings.
- Wood Finish- This ACP sheet finish mimics the appearance of wood, offering a natural, and warm aesthetic. They are ideal for interior wall cladding, ceilings, and partitions, as well as exteriors wall cladding for residential buildings or offices.
- Marble Finish- This ACP sheet gives the luxurious look of marble stone, following the texture and pattern at a low price. It is widely used in lobbies, high-end commercial spaces, and residential interiors.
- Stone Finish- These sheets act as an alternative for providing natural stone finishes to the wall surface. They offer the looks and texture of natural stones like granite, slate, and sandstone at a low cost.
- Brushed Finish- It offers a brushed metallic finish, giving a sleek, shiny, and industrial look that reflects light in a subtle, linear pattern. It is commonly used for exterior facades, commercial buildings, signage, and modern interior designs.
Advantages of ACP Wall Cladding
- It offers a visually pleasing effect to the wall surface, with its wide range of finishing options.
- It gives enhanced protection against almost every external condition such as weather, corrosion, and impact.
- The thin and lightweight nature makes it easier to handle, transport, and install compared to cladding materials, thereby reducing labour costs.
- It offers thermal and sound insulation, keeping the internal surface isolated from external temperatures and noisy environments.
- ACP wall cladding is easy to clean and maintain, which helps in retaining its appearance for a long time.
- This cladding offers the look and feel of rock, metals, and wood, acting as an alternative. It is also durable, thereby reducing the maintenance cost.
- It is suitable for a wide range of applications, including facades, signage, and interiors, with customizable sizes and shapes.
Installation Process of ACP Wall Cladding
Preparing the Surface
Clean the surface, where the ACP wall cladding needs to be installed. The surface should be completely free from dust, dirt, grease, and other contaminants for good adhesion and alignment.
Installing Frame
Based on the types of installation processes, the supporting frames are installed to support the ACP wall cladding. It is necessary to ensure that the framework provides adequate support to the ACP panels.
Measurements & Cutting of ACP Sheets
Measure the dimensions of the area where the ACP panels need to be installed. Accurate measurements should be made to cut the perfect shape of the panel, ensuring proper fitting.
Using the measurements, cut the ACP panel to the dimensions specified by the manufacturer to avoid accidents.
Mounting the ACP Panels
Mount the ACP panel either using mechanical fixing or adhesive fixing. In mechanical fixing, the ACP sheets are attached to the frame by drilling holes and securing them using screws.
In adhesive fixing, the ACP panel is applied with a highly adhesive tape and attached to the surface or frames. The cladding should be firmly fixed to the surface for a strong bond. Clamps and brackets are used to support the cladding until the adhesive hardens.
Maintenance and Care
- Clean the panels more often with mild detergent and a soft cloth
- Avoid using harsh chemicals and abrasive materials.
- Clean the stains on the wall cladding appropriately to keep it clean and avoid further damage.
- Conduct regular inspections to check for cracks, dents, and sealant deterioration, and replace the damaged panels, when needed.
- Handle cladding panels more carefully, by avoiding abrasive materials and scratching.
- Avoid placing the cladding under prolonged sun exposure, pollution, and moisture build-up, as it could decrease longevity.
Conclusion
In summary, ACP wall cladding offers a blend of durability, aesthetically pleasing, and low-maintenance solutions for both exterior and interior applications. Numerous types of ACP sheets offer various properties and applications. They mimic the looks and textures of high-end and expensive natural materials such as wood, stone, and metal, at a low cost. It is more durable, easy to maintain, and keeping the surface long lasting.