Exterior cladding has a wide range of applications and finishes to provide structural support for residential and commercial buildings across the country, increasing appeal and increasing energy efficiency. In the past few years, metal cladding, especially acm cladding, has become increasingly popular around the world.
While traditional brick exterior cladding is highly regarded for its durability, they offer little flexibility and customization. On the other hand, metal cladding can be cut into a variety of shapes and stylish designs. What’s more, metal cladding is also easy to paint, further adding to their beauty.
Recent advances in exterior metal cladding applications have also enabled rain curtain wall systems; these systems are constructed with an additional waterproof jacket layer and an air space pocket between the panel and the interior wall. This prevents moisture from moving away from the internal structure, allowing the building to dry quickly and remain relatively unaffected even during heavy rains.
Currently exterior cladding is available in a variety of materials including zinc, copper, aluminum and galvanized steel. Deciding which option to choose in your own home or business project depends largely on the material nature of each choice. Below is a brief guide to the metal cladding provided by Alcoworld professional team.
Acm cladding
Acm cladding covers more than 60% of industrial and commercial construction projects; the materials are very lightweight and easy to form and apply. Aluminum does not rust. When exposed to air, the material forms a dense oxide layer that acts as a natural coating against moisture and rain. Usually acm cladding will last for about 40 years. Acm cladding is often slightly more expensive than galvanized steel. In addition, acm cladding can have additional features, such as factory-designed acm cladding (with added refractory core) that is fire resistant.
Steel cladding
Galvanized steel is often the most affordable external application, and it offers an admirable life of approximately 35 years; this material is still considered less durable and flexible than other forms of metal cladding.
Zinc cladding
Zinc provides a fresh, unique appearance to any building, so it is a slowly popular metal cladding
material. Similar to acm cladding, zinc produces an oxide layer that prevents corrosion and rust over time; therefore, this form of cladding can last up to 100 years. As an added bonus, zinc is also 100% recyclable. Due to these characteristics, zinc is more expensive than aluminum and galvanized steel; although the quality is not as high as acm cladding.
Copper cladding
Much like zinc, copper does not require manual treatment to protect its surface from rust and corrosion. Over time, the metal produced a beautiful green patina, which is very coveted by the designers. Copper is considered to be almost self-sustaining because the metal oxide layer can even cover scratches and other forms of surface damage. However, finding an installer who can handle critical materials can be a problem.
Due to its aesthetic properties, copper is generally considered to be the most expensive metal cladding material.
Alucoworld is a manufacturer specialized in aluminum composite panels located in Shanghai. With over ten years' efforts, our company has gained great development in producing aluminum composite panels. If you are finding strong exterior cladding, why not contact us to learn more about acm cladding now?
