Metal Cladding – Total Roofing & Cladding

Colorbond Cladding vs. Vinyl Siding: Which Is Better?

Lance Mathews — Sat, 16 Sep 2023 13:00:42 +0000

Colorbond Cladding vs. Vinyl Siding: Which Is Better?

Hey there, homeowner or soon-to-be homeowner! If you’re reading this, you’re probably wondering what the best siding choice for your house is. We understand. It’s definitely an important decision to make. The outside of your home is like its first impression and you surely want it to look beautiful and last long.

You’ve probably encountered two common siding options: Colorbond Cladding and Vinyl Siding. They both have advantages, but which one is best for your castle? That’s why we’re here to assist you.

House cladding, like any other building material, has costs associated with sourcing, transportation, and installation. Given the large amount required for the new building, ensuring that your chosen cladding gives exceptional value for your investment is critical.

Keep reading as we share information about the Colorbond cladding and vinyl siding.

Lance Mathews

Lance Mathews, with 20 years of expertise in roofing and cladding, Lance was involved in the first architectural cladding business in Melbourne. Lance is a Director at Total Roofing and Cladding based in Melbourne, one of Melbourne's premier roofing and cladding companies. His extensive knowledge and experience have driven Total Roofing and Cladding to become one of Melbourne's elite roofing and cladding companies.

Understanding Colorbond Cladding

Colorbond Cladding, sometimes compared to other protective layers you can use for your home’s façade, provides both safety and attractiveness. Let’s first understand what Colorbond Cladding is all about.

Defining Colorbond Cladding and Its Key Characteristics

Definition:

Colorbond Cladding is a distinct type of steel cladding that has been precisely covered with durable and colorful paint. This isn’t just any old paint; it’s a customized coating engineered to withstand even the worst climatic conditions.

Characteristics:

What distinguishes Colorbond Cladding from its competitors? It’s a lightweight yet extremely strong siding choice. Without breaking a sweat, this material can survive the unrelenting onslaught of the scorching sun, heavy rain, and even the corrosive impacts of salty sea air.

The Advantages of Opting for Colorbond Cladding

Exceptional Durability

Imagine siding that stands firm against corrosion, flaking, and chipping. That is precisely what Colorbond Cladding offers. It’s built to last, giving homeowners years, if not decades, of dependable protection and visual beauty.

Because of the durability of Colorbond Cladding, you won’t have to worry about replacing or refurbishing your siding regularly. This endurance translates into considerable long-term cost savings, making it a wise investment for individuals who value longevity.

Color Options and Aesthetically Pleasing Choices

Colorbond Cladding does not believe in a “one-size-fits-all” approach. Instead, it features a diverse pallet of colors and textures, allowing homeowners to give their homes a distinct, individualized flair. Colorbond Cladding can meet your style choices, whether sleek and sophisticated or rustic and warm.

Furthermore, the color selections aren’t just for show; they’re built to last, preserving their brilliant colors even when exposed to severe UV rays and stormy weather. This guarantees that your property looks as good as when you installed Colorbond Cladding.

Minimal Maintenance Requirements

Raise your hand if you enjoy spending weekends scraping, painting, and repairing your siding. No one? We thought so, too. Colorbond Cladding provides a pleasant break from the time-consuming care procedures commonly connected with conventional siding materials.

This material requires little care, requiring only an occasional wash-down to keep it looking clean. Say goodbye to the effort and expense of routine maintenance and welcome the simplicity and peace of mind that Colorbond Cladding offers.

Potential Considerations When Choosing Colorbond Cladding

Cost Factors

Although Colorbond Cladding offers outstanding long-term value, it is wise to start by considering your budget. Although Colorbond Cladding may need a larger initial investment than some alternative solutions, it’s important to remember that you are paying for quality, durability, and long-term low-maintenance expenses.

You can align with your financial objectives by evaluating your budget and comparing it to the long-term advantages of Colorbond Cladding.

Complexity of Installation

Installing Colorbond Cladding is different from your typical do-it-yourself undertaking. It’s frequently better left in the hands of experienced professionals due to its specific qualities and specialized installation needs. Although it could cost more, doing so ensures a precise and quick installation procedure, and you get the maximum advantages of Colorbond Cladding.

Exploring Vinyl Siding

Defining Vinyl Siding and Its Key Characteristics

Like Colorbond Cladding, Vinyl Siding has unique distinguishing characteristics, benefits, and possible downsides. Let’s explore the world of vinyl siding to learn more about what it has to offer.

Definition:

A form of external cladding called vinyl siding is constructed of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) resin. It is intended to preserve the outside of your property while boosting its aesthetic appeal.

Characteristics:

Due to its small weight, vinyl siding is simple to handle and install. It normally consists of interlocking panels that give the façade of your home a seamless appearance. Its ability to simulate diverse textures, like wood or stone, to provide distinct visual effects is one of its standout qualities.

The Advantages of Opting for Vinyl Siding

Affordability

The cost of vinyl siding is one of its most notable benefits. Compared to alternative siding materials like wood or brick, it’s frequently more affordable. Vinyl Siding is a great alternative if you want to improve the exterior of your house without going over budget.

Ease of Installation

Efficiency in installation is a consideration in the design of vinyl siding. Because of its small weight and interlocking panel design, installation is made simpler. In contrast to certain other materials, this lowers labor expenses and shortens the time it takes to clad your home.

Variety of Styles and Colors

Vinyl siding has a wide range of color and style options to match your design preferences. Whatever style you like for your exterior—classic, conventional, or more modern—Vinyl Siding offers a wide range of options to make it happen.

Potential Drawbacks of Vinyl Siding

Durability Concerns

Although vinyl siding is known for being inexpensive and simple to install, there may be questions about its long-term durability. It cannot be as robust as other siding materials when exposed to harsh weather conditions, such as strong storms or excessive heat. Over time, it may also be prone to cracking, fading, or warping.

Maintenance Requirements

Compared to some alternatives, vinyl siding typically requires less upkeep, although it does require some maintenance. It could gather dust, mold, or mildew over time, necessitating sporadic cleaning to keep it looking good. In addition, if any pieces are broken, they could need to be replaced, which is a little more difficult than routine maintenance.

Comparing Colorbond Cladding and Vinyl Siding

Longevity and durability

Colorbond Cladding

Durability:

Colorbond Cladding is well-known for its long lifespan. Its steel core is designed to survive extreme weather conditions like direct sunlight, heavy rain, and salty sea air without rusting or corroding. Colorbond Cladding’s toughness assures that it will provide dependable protection for decades.

Vinyl Siding

Durability:
Vinyl siding is reasonably durable. However, it may not be as resistant as Colorbond Cladding under adverse weather conditions. It may become prone to cracking, yellowing, or warping with time, reducing its lifetime.

Maintenance Requirements

Colorbond Cladding

Maintenance:

Colorbond Cladding is well-known for requiring little maintenance. Regular cleaning to remove dirt or debris is usually required to keep it looking great. Because it is resistant to peeling or chipping paint, it avoids the need for periodic repainting.

Vinyl Siding

Maintenance:

Vinyl siding is low-maintenance in general. However, it may need to be cleaned regularly to avoid accumulating dirt, mold, or mildew. Furthermore, if any components are broken, they may need to be replaced.

Aesthetics and Customization Options

Colorbond Cladding

Aesthetics:

Colorbond Cladding has a contemporary and sleek look that complements various architectural styles. While it has fewer textures than Vinyl Siding, it compensates with a wider choice of brilliant, long-lasting colors.

Customization:

While Colorbond Cladding has fewer texture possibilities, it has a wide range of color modification options, allowing homeowners to produce a bespoke design that meets their tastes.

Vinyl Siding

Aesthetics:

Vinyl siding comes in various shapes and colors, including alternatives like wood, stone, or traditional siding materials. This adaptability can assist homeowners in achieving a certain aesthetic impression.

Customization:

Vinyl Siding, with its diverse choice of designs and colors, provides homeowners with enough opportunity for personalization to meet their preferred architectural style and aesthetic preferences.

Cost Analysis (Initial and Long-term)

Colorbond Cladding

Initial Cost:

Because of its superior quality and longevity, Colorbond Cladding has a higher initial cost.

Long-term Cost:

Colorbond Cladding, on the other hand, is frequently cost-effective when considering long-term savings due to little maintenance and longevity.

Vinyl Siding

Initial Cost:

In terms of initial installation expenses, vinyl siding is often less expensive.

Long-term Cost:

While it may have reduced initial costs, long-term cost-efficiency may be impacted by potential maintenance and shorter lifetime factors.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Colorbond Cladding

Environmental Impact:

Colorbond Cladding is recyclable and constructed of steel, one of the most recycled materials in the world. This helps to ensure its environmental sustainability.

Sustainability:

Its resilience and lifespan eliminate the need for regular replacements, further lowering its environmental impact.

Vinyl Siding

Environmental Impact:

Vinyl siding is constructed from PVC, which has aroused environmental concerns due to its manufacturing method and possible toxic emissions.

Sustainability:

While attempts have been made to increase PVC recycling, its long-term viability is still being debated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Colorbond roofing be placed on an existing roof, or is it usually used for new construction?

Colorbond roofing may be applied to both new and existing roofs. Because of its durability and simplicity of installation, it is a popular choice for roof replacement.

Does Colorbond Roofing have a warranty, and what does it normally cover?

Yes, Colorbond roofing is usually backed by a manufacturer’s guarantee. Although the conditions vary, warranties often cover flaws, paint peeling or fading, and corrosion for a defined time.

Is it possible to put solar panels or roof vents on Colorbond roofing without causing damage?

Yes, Colorbond roofing may be used with solar panels and roof vents. To ensure good sealing and minimal damage to the roofing material, it is critical to select competent personnel for installation.

Is Colorbond roofing eco-friendly and recyclable?

Because it is comprised of recyclable steel, Colorbond roofing is considered ecologically friendly. It may be recycled at the end of its extended existence, lessening its environmental effect.

Key Takeaways

Your house is more than a building; it’s an extension of yourself and reflects your personality and ideals. Whether you like the dependability of Colorbond Cladding or the adaptability of Vinyl Siding, remember that each option has its benefits and disadvantages.

Choose carefully, and may your decision reflect your dedication to creating a home that shelters and inspires. Allow your home to be a blank canvas for your aspirations, a safe sanctuary, and an expression of your unique personality.

And if you ever find yourself caught in a web of indecision between these two options, contact your most trusted cladding service contractors. We are here to lend expertise and guide you toward the best choice for your unique needs and preferences. Your dream home is their mission, and we’re always ready to assist!

Metal Cladding: What Are They Used For?

Lance Mathews — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 05:30:37 +0000

Metal Cladding: What Are They Used For?

You may find cladding materials on the exterior of various structures, from high-end commercial buildings to farm buildings. This provides a solid and long-lasting defence against the elements, including weather, abrasions, and UV radiation.

Although cladding may be made from various materials, metal cladding is the material of choice for many homes and business owners and cladding installers like us because of its appearance, features, and benefits.

However, what is metal cladding, and what do you need to know about it? The basics are discussed in this article. Continue reading!

Lance Mathews

What is Metal Cladding?

Metal cladding is a protective coating in which a substrate is bonded to a protective substance, such as metal powder or foil, by applying pressure and heat. The study of metal cladding is essential because it typically provides highly dependable and cost-efficient corrosion and wear protection. Additionally, the process parameters may be tuned for various crucial applications, including metals and composites.

A form of external cladding constructed of metal is metal cladding. It serves the same purpose as almost all other types of cladding, which is to safeguard a building’s exterior or interior, although made of a different material. Cladding can be used to enhance the appearance of a structure in addition to providing structural protection. Because metal is often quite robust and durable and because of the broad range of forms and finishes it comes in, the metal cladding may be very beneficial for both purposes. But metal cladding may also be used for roofing, unlike the majority of other kinds of cladding.

Different Types of Metal Cladding

Metal cladding achieves the best mix between utility and aesthetics compared to other kinds, such as stone, concrete, and wood. A variety of metals with different mechanical qualities can be used as cladding:

Aluminum

Some projects choose aluminium cladding because it offers excellent resistance to corrosion and rust. Homes, businesses, and other structures in humid areas frequently employ it.

Other advantages of aluminium cladding include its light weight and exceptional versatility in coating and painting. It might not work in conditions with higher levels of abrasiveness, though, because it is less robust than other metals.

One of the most used materials for cladding is aluminium. This is partly because aluminium is widely sought-after for homes, buildings, and other constructions positioned close to an ocean since, unlike copper or steel, it cannot rust or corrode. Aluminium may be used for side and roof cladding since it is also very lightweight. Additionally, it can be painted almost any colour, much like most other metals. The main drawback is that steel is more vital than aluminium, which may offer different protection in more hostile conditions.

Zinc

Zinc is a very versatile material showing up more frequently in modern architecture. Its malleability and softness make it possible for the building to be flexible. As a result of its resistance to oxidation and the formation of a naturally protective covering known as a patina, zinc has an exceptionally long lifespan of between 60 and 80 years.

Zinc is a non-toxic, recyclable, and recycled material, making it a sustainable option. In comparison to other primary metals, zinc production requires less energy.

Steel

The main benefit of steel cladding is its tremendous strength. Steel may not be ideal for rust resistance, but specific steel grades provide adequate defence.

It is often used for interior and exterior cladding because of its robustness. This kind works well in structures that need to be vital for a long time, as in industrial settings.

Copper

Copper is a classic material that ages well and takes on a character, making it a good choice for both traditional and modern houses. Warm bronze tones of copper naturally oxidise to an iridescent brown and then take on a green patina.

Because it is lightweight and robust, copper may be helpful for massive structures. Additionally, it has a long lifespan and requires minimal upkeep due to wear and tear.

Bright, sparkling orange at first, copper soon corrodes into a pale green colour. This hue is quite famous for many structures and is frequently picked for that reason. However, from a practical sense, copper and other metals are preferred for sloping roofing applications since, in contrast to tile or shingles, they make it simple for snow to slide off.

Pros and Cons of Metal Cladding

There are many alternatives for building materials for new projects, from bricks and stones to wood and vinyl. However, why is metal cladding so well-liked? That’s a result of the several advantages that, in only a few decades, have turned it into a favourite in the business.

Pros

Durable

Any other cladding material cannot match the metal panels’ endurance. Metal cladding is impervious to corrosion, electrochemical processes, and water damage. Overall, metal panels have a remarkably long lifespan and require practically no upkeep.

Range of Designs

Any architectural style may complement the various treatments and styles offered by metal cladding. So, in addition to adding a layer of protection to a building, siding can make the structure seem stunning and raise the property’s worth, whether it be a residential, commercial, or industrial structure. Many different textures, colours, patterns, forms, and sizes are available.

Sustainable

Metal cladding panels may be produced using post-consumer recycled materials, which makes them eco-friendly and lowers the amount of waste going to landfills. This is a fantastic chance for contractors to lessen their environmental carbon impact.
After usage, metal is a material that may be recycled. This makes metal siding, particularly steel siding, environmentally benign. Metal cladding is an obvious choice for those who want to make sustainable decisions. It’s interesting to note that after you decide to replace steel and aluminium panels at the end of their useful life, they may still be employed in building projects.

Simple Installation

Because metal cladding is light and flexible, installing it is pretty simple. Construction workers have the chance to rapidly and efficiently instal metal cladding. Additionally, they contain attachment mechanisms explicitly designed for rapid and straightforward installation. To prevent faulty installation, we still advise using expert installation services.

Low Maintenance

Metal cladding panels needed far less upkeep and repair than wood, stone, and painted surfaces. Because metal cladding is so resistant to extreme weather, it may frequently just be cleaned to maintain its aesthetic appeal.

Energy Efficiency

Cons

Rusting

Metal roofs are energy efficient as they reduce a building’s energy usage. The absorption and retention of heat through the roof can be decreased by using reflective metal cladding, saving cooling expenses. Metal keeps a house warm during the chilly winter by acting as an insulator and slowing down heat loss.Metal may be harmed by rust. In humid regions, homeowners should anticipate rust issues with steel siding if they don’t take the proper precautions. Rust, paint peeling, and scratches on metal surfaces are all possible. Steel siding may be given a layer of protection using spray-on treatments, extending its life. Rust risk will be reduced by choosing high-quality metal siding.

Chalking and Fading

Different kinds of paint deteriorate at various rates where paint naturally wears away. The metal cladding’s coating may degrade due to environmental factors, a process known as photo-degradation. Harsh weather, pollution, wetness, UV rays, salty air, etc., can all contribute to this. Over time, paint can also deteriorate or chalk naturally.

Vulnerable to Dents

Softer aluminium siding may be damaged and perforated during an intense hailstorm or windstorm that blows branches. When selecting a siding material, homeowners should consider the local climate and location.

More expensive compared to other cladding materials.
Metal cladding often costs more than other siding alternatives for the materials utilised. The long-term benefits from less maintenance and metal cladding’s longer lifespan than less expensive materials offset the high upfront expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

How durable is metal cladding?

A wide variety of surface treatments may be selected, albeit specific finishes may have a tiny ripple. The material has a lifespan of up to 80 years and is about as expensive as zinc. It is also very resistant to corrosion and requires no maintenance.

Will metal cladding increase your house temperature?

Finally, metal cladding is an excellent option for enhancing your structure’s thermal or even acoustic insulation qualities. This implies that the building can retain a cool temperature even in hot weather. In contrast, metal cladding stops extra heat from escaping, particularly in cold weather.

Is metal siding water-resistant?

Since metal is naturally watertight, it is pointless to waterproof a metal construction. Generally, metal buildings are inexpensive, easy to maintain, quick to construct, and weather resistant.

If Colorbond is scratched, does it rust?

Corrosion resistance is included in Colorbond. But over a few weeks or months, Colorbond fence will begin to rust from constant exposure to moisture, such as through dirt accumulation or rainfall pooling. Minor blemishes should be ignored, but significantly damaged panels must be replaced.

Key Takeaways

While improving a building’s aesthetics, wall cladding systems offer several other advantages, including excellent environmental performance, fire protection, moisture resistance, better acoustics, and compliance with several other technical requirements. Metal wall cladding is the best option for a contemporary, cost-efficient, and top-notch ecologically friendly wall covering. Any cladding or pre-existing metal systems may be smoothly covered with metal panels with good simplicity.

Metal Wall Cladding vs. Concrete Wall Cladding – Which is a Better Option?

Lance Mathews — Sun, 28 Aug 2022 04:06:30 +0000

Metal wall cladding vs concrete wall cladding - Everything you need to know

Cladding systems comprise two interconnected components: the wall system (such as lightweight timber framing) and the cladding layers. Cladding is a non-loadbearing skin or coating affixed to the outside walls. Its primary function is to protect a structure from water and weather impacts; other parts can include sound, thermal insulation, and fire resistance. The cladding you choose has a considerable effect on your home’s environmental performance, cost, aesthetic appeal, and property value.

You may obtain optimum physical performance and aesthetics by selecting cladding materials specific to an elevation or exposure. There are many types of cladding designs and options in the market.

Two of the most preferred wall cladding design options among our clients are metal walls and concrete cladding. This depends upon homeowners’ preference on how they would want their exterior designs to look. But how do these two differ?

Let us discuss with you on a quick walk-through the main fundamental difference between the metal wall and concrete wall cladding.

Lance Mathews

What is a metal wall cladding?

Metal cladding is a sort of metal exterior cladding. While it is made of a different material, it serves the same purpose as practically all other types of cladding: it protects the exterior or interior of a building. Architectural cladding can be used to improve a structure’s appearance and provide structural protection. Metal cladding can be highly useful for both reasons. The metal, in general, is quite robust and durable. Its extensive range of types and finishes allows for aesthetic versatility. Unlike most other types of cladding, metal cladding can also be used for roofing.

Materials Commonly used for Metal Wall Cladding:

Galvanised steel
Aluminium
Titanium
Zinc
Coper
Brass

The Pros and Cons of Using a Metal Wall Cladding

Pros

Versatility

Metal panels can be used for external and interior cladding. Heavy materials such as bricks and concrete can easily replace metal wall panels. It can be used to cover both interior and exterior walls. Metal roof panels are also excellent for the roof deck. Metal panelling and lining can be combined with other materials, such as vinyl and concrete, to provide further protection.

Regarding interior design, many builders nowadays prefer metal panels over traditional materials like drywall or wood. This is because metal panel ceilings and wall surfaces are sturdy, durable, and visually appealing. And, because metal panels may be constructed from various materials and textures, the number of looks that can be created for a building grows exponentially.

Durability

One of the primary benefits of metal cladding panels is their durability, mainly when used externally as wall cladding, roof decking, or trim. Metal panelled cladding is durable and resistant to water damage, electrochemical reactions, and corrosion. Metal cladding panels are also far more resistant to damage caused by impacts like hail or other flying items than materials such as drywall, wood, and composites. This is one of the explanations why metal panels are commonly used for exterior industrial cladding. Metal panels have exceptionally extended longevity and require little to no maintenance.

Fire resistance

Metal is usually pretty fire resistant, but it is a good idea to contact manufacturers about the fire-resistance rating needs of your cladding. To minimise unintended outcomes, it is also critical to analyse how metal cladding interacts with other elements within a building shell.

Easy to Install

Metal cladding is much faster and easier to instal than brick, block, or concrete cladding. It is also a less challenging and time-consuming task. This is only possible because metal panels can be manufactured in large, lightweight sections, allowing a larger area to be covered faster than typical cladding materials. Several metal cladding systems contain particular fastening mechanisms that speed up the process even more.

Sustainable

All varieties of metal cladding include recycled materials to different extents, making them environmentally friendly. They are also easily recyclable because they are made from familiar metals. Overall, this significantly reduces the carbon footprint of any construction.

In this approach, metal cladding panels have numerous advantages and are transforming the way buildings are designed and built. Metal panels will likely become the dominating choice for exterior cladding.

Wide Selection of Styles and Designs

Metal cladding comes in various finishes and styles to complement any architectural style. So, in addition to providing a protective layer, it may also increase the appearance and value of a structure, whether residential, industrial, or commercial. You can select various textures, colours, designs, forms, and sizes.

Cons

Rusting

To avoid rusting or corrosion, metal cladding sheets are coated. However, once sliced, the edges are typically left uncoated and visible. As a result, these edges may corrode with prolonged contact with moisture. This can result in cladding deterioration and holes.

Noise

Chalking and Fading

The coating on the metal cladding may begin to fade due to climatic conditions, known as photo-degradation. This can develop due to harsh weather, pollution, wetness, UV lights, salty air, and other factors. Paint deterioration or chalking occurs spontaneously over time as well.

Delamination

For lamination, cladding usually is covered with a polyester layer on top. However, as moisture begins to soak in and cause rust, this lamination layer might start to detach from the metal surface. Even though dye sublimation laminations are now manufactured for long life, the problem persists.

What is a concrete wall cladding?

Concrete cladding can be installed on the inside or outside of a building. It is made of pre-formed concrete (using moulds) into the desired panel shapes or tiles. The concrete is grey if no colouring agents are applied; however, many various colours can be created by mixing colours. If desired, you can add colour to the concrete.

Concrete cladding panels are generally outside-made precast concrete panels used to clad various buildings, such as residential buildings, commercial buildings, hospitals, schools, etc. This cladding panel is composed of solid and other durable concrete. It is placed on the outside and inside of a structure. They improve the building’s visual appeal while also increasing its durability. In some cases, concrete cladding can be built from several materials, such as stone, bricks, and even wood.

The Pros and Cons of Using a Concrete Wall Cladding

Pros

Cost-effective

One of the vastest benefits of putting concrete cladding panels on the outside or interior of a building is that they are quite affordable to instal. Concrete is particularly cost-effective for any building since it provides long-term results at less than other cladding materials.

Low-maintenance

Concrete cladding panels require relatively little care, so you won’t have to worry about frequent maintenance once put. The only maintenance needed for concrete cladding panels is regular cleaning or repainting to increase the aesthetic appeal of the panels.

Rapid construction schemes

Manufacturing occurs concurrently with foundation and frame building, allowing them to be shipped and erected on a just-in-time basis. Panels can be provided with windows and insulation installed at the factory, speeding up the work of the following trades. Early dry envelope enclosing allows follow-on deals to begin sooner.

Waste reduction and material efficiency

Because units are fully developed in the factory, there is barely any waste produced during production. Shipment and installation require little to no packing.

Lifespan and adaptability

Concrete cladding is used to produce long-lasting facades. They can also be dismantled and the panels reconditioned for future use or crushed to generate recyclable aggregate and scrap steel.

Fire Resistance and Sound Proof

Concrete is a sound fire barrier; it just does not burn well. Precast concrete wall panels have a fire-resistance rating of two to four hours. Precast walls are also resistant to chemical fires. Precast wall panels are frequently used as dividers in warehouses to safeguard commodities on the other side of fire-prone regions.

Cons

Expensive Initial Investment

Heavy and complex machines are usually required to install concrete wall cladding, which involves a significant initial expenditure. A considerable scale of precast construction projects must be offered to provide a reasonable return.

Concrete Cladding Handling Challenges

Handling precast concrete requires extreme caution and care. Precast members are typically heavy and massive, making them difficult to handle without harm. Precast members are usually operated by portable or tower cranes.

Modification

Concrete cladding modification feature is limited. Dismantling a concrete cladding structure for renovation will affect the entire property.

Metal vs. concrete cladding-which is better?

The preference between metal and concrete cladding for your home always depends on the exterior look and property necessity. We mentioned above the pros and cons of the two wall cladding types. We always advise our clients with different wall solutions depending on other factors. Every home or property is unique. It has its own needs and limitations considering the location, budget, external factors, etc. We can’t stress enough the importance of having good solid advice from a well-qualified and experienced professional who has your best interest at heart.

How To Choose Your Wall Cladding Types - 4 Things To Consider

Determine your project budget

House restoration projects may be expensive, and if you don’t plan ahead of time, you may spend more than you can afford and jeopardise your financial health. Every homeowner wants to avoid these scenarios, so it’s critical to plan ahead of time and educate yourself before making a final decision.

Installation and texture

Some people are pretty concerned with the final appearance. You should choose your wall covering carefully if you are one of them. There are numerous textures to pick from, but most people can choose one that suits their preferences. If you decide to use light wall cladding, you can attach it to your walls on your own. However, hiring a contractor is recommended because it will save you a lot of time.

Cost-effectiveness

You may be tempted to believe that low-cost cladding materials are a steal. However, low-cost materials may not be the most cost-effective because they may require extensive upkeep.

Help our home withstand harsh climate

There’s no denying it. Australia’s climate conditions establish high criteria for the efficiency of our construction materials. This is something to bear in mind while choosing materials. Products and materials produced in other countries are frequently unfit for purpose. They can’t predict what they’ll be subjected to. Thus they don’t last when used in our local renovations or new projects.

Key Takeaways

Building cladding is an essential component of a building’s envelope and must be carefully selected to guarantee the greatest performance. The primary function of the cladding is to act as a weatherproofing layer, preventing outside factors such as rain, wind, and dust from affecting the interior structure of the walls. It’s also an important aspect of a building’s aesthetics: it’s the visible exterior skin.
Choosing between metal and concrete wall cladding always comes down to preference and the structural needs of your property. We always advise consulting a roofing and cladding expert before you choose a material, but in general, the rule of thumb is that metal is usually preferable when aesthetics are more important and concrete is better for structural purposes. No matter what you choose, it’s essential to get the advice of a contractor to help determine your needs.

4 Types Of Modern Architectural Cladding Systems

Lance Mathews — Thu, 04 Aug 2022 02:54:54 +0000

4 Types Of Modern Architectural Cladding Systems

Cladding refers to the modifications that are typically affixed to the core structure of buildings to provide external, non-structural surfaces. The fundamental rationale for employing claddings in facilities is to improve the building’s protection by adding layers. It assures that the structure is impervious to pollutants, moulds, and climatic change, such as humidity, sunshine, and high winds. Architectural cladding is employed to establish a barrier against the elements to improve structural integrity and functionality. Architectural cladding also allows homeowners to express their style.

Argemax Claddings: Myriad of Design Choices

This kind of architectural cladding is created from composite fibre panels, and it’s a great alternative to the latest trends on the market. These are often large format panels that can be easily transformed into any shape or size, allowing for various design options. These massive panels combine harmoniously with all the other materials for an imaginative and clean aesthetic appeal.

Performance
Dryness: The ventilated facade system offers comfort and protection. They protect the building exterior from corrosive and destructive external elements, weather, and dirt.
Ease of Application: They are fixed utilizing screws on the structure.
Elasticity: They are resistant and stable and averse to deformity and cracks.
Sustainability: They are composed of natural fibres, cement, and water.

Clay Claddings: Environment-Friendly Tough Exterior

Clay cladding is an environmentally sensitive and low-cost architectural cladding popular among modern and contemporary builders. Clay cladding is the ideal option if you reside in a tropical climate.

Performance

Acoustic Insulation: Clay bricks are excellent sound insulators due to their dense construction. Its density and thickness decrease acoustic transmission and deflects sound from residences, jet flights, and streets.

Control Moist: Builders have started using construction procedures that have resulted in tight walls. This procedure is exceptionally insulated and sealed against air filtering to meet growing requests for the latest trends. Mildew growth, insect infestation, and corrosion have increased due to the compact walls failing to control moisture. It has superior moisture management than any other type of cladding.

Fire Resistance: Clay bricks are the most trusted wall cladding material for providing total fire safety to residents and thus peace of mind.

High wind resistance: Clay bricks are protection from wind-blown debris. It’s to ensure the security of the residents and property.

Thermal Insulation: Clay bricks are one of the most energy-efficient materials available in dwellings. As opposed to concrete cladding methods, clay bricks provide higher thermal insulation. Clay bricks gently absorb and release heat, keeping the house cool during the day and warm at night. As a result, you’ll save a lot of money on your energy expenses.

Ultra longevity: Clay bricks survive long due to their inherent qualities. There are numerous historic and well-known structures made entirely of clay bricks still standing proudly. Clay bricks assure architects that the systems would last longer, increasing their monetary value.

Zero Maintenance Cost: Unlike other wall cladding materials, Clay bricks do not require any upkeep or costs. Furthermore, clay bricks protect against decay, warping, denting, fading, rusting, peeling, and termites.

Wood Claddings: Higher Degree of the Weather Resistance

Planks and shingles are two types of wood cladding available. Oak, pine, or cedar are the most common woods utilized for this. Wood claddings are favored because they are usually eco-friendly and offer excellent weather resistance. When it comes to upkeep, wood takes extra attention, such as a yearly treatment for termite protection. The use of wood is a well-established and sophisticated method of weatherproofing.

Performance

Adaptability: Wood is a natural material. It is simple to modify, customize, or remove, unlike other exterior finishing materials.

Budget and time flexibility: You can ‘go big’ with any wood cladding job, but dozens of low-cost woods look great and perform well. It’s also worth noting that wood is lighter than other materials, making it easy to transfer and install the cladding.

Functionality: Wood has a cellular structure that contains air spaces as a material. It makes it an excellent natural insulator, allowing the facility to maintain a more consistent temperature. This structure also acts as a sound barrier, keeping outside noises.

Natural Beauty: You can establish a seamless transition between the building and the surrounding flora or create a welcome contrast inside an urban setting.

Sustainability: If you seek a natural, environmentally friendly building material, go no further than timber. Carbon sequestration removes damaging greenhouse gases from the atmosphere and stores them in the ground. It’s a terrific way to include a sustainable story into your project.

Categorization

Western Red Cedar: Western Red Cedar is a durable softwood with a gorgeous, warm pinkish to reddish-brown cladding wood. It is often the best cladding species due to its straight grain with a medium-to-coarse texture. This resinous species naturally repels all the outdoor horrors it will encounter. It is lightweight, stable, inexpensive, weather-resistant, and has excellent workability and nailing capabilities. Western Red Cedar will not fail you down, whether you’re cladding a house or the exterior of a large real estate site.

Siberian Larch: Siberian Larch is either straight or spiralled with a medium to fine texture. Its colour ranges from pale yellow to a medium brownish hue. Despite being classified as a softwood with a moderate rot resistance, Larch is tougher than cedar. Its density is 575kg/m, making it more scratch-resistant than even many hardwoods. Siberian Larch is also often less expensive, making it a good choice for people on a budget. Siberian Larch is available in two grades: A and B. Siberian Larch is a superb, robust, dense, and stable external wood cladding material. A quality contains few or no knots, but B allows for larger, more frequent knots; this isn’t necessarily bad if you’re going for a natural look.

European Oak: European Oak is a perennially popular hardwood cladding with a magnificent golden brown colour and a distinctive straight grain. It is as tough as nails and with remarkable natural durability. Although it machines well, nailing and bolting might be tricky — pre-drilling is recommended. It is worth noting that it reacts to iron and has high rot resistance, so you’ll use stainless steel nails or screws. The boarding can be supplied in longer, more stable 4.5m lengths because it is affixed and finger jointed. It is the best choice for a stunning, longer-length hardwood external cladding that will lend a touch of timeless class to your outside cladding project.

Metal Claddings: Protect the Structure from Fires and Insects

The architectural cladding of this style is found in retro and modern structures. Steel and aluminum are the most widely utilized metals in metal cladding. This style has the advantages of being environmentally benign, requiring less care, and not being affected by fires or insects. The metal cladding has drawbacks, such as a longer installation time and higher cost. Furthermore, these claddings are hefty and prone to stone dents. Further, metal cladding has an increased risk of rusting or discoloration.

Performance

Metal’s durability: Metal’s durability is one of the main reasons for its popularity as a cladding material. However, there are a few performance criteria to maximize the benefits of metal in a project.

Acoustic Insulation: Sound insulation is limited between the external and internal environments. Suppliers frequently determine whole-of-wall ratings by considering the insulating infill-wall products’ Rw rating (Weighted Sound Reduction Index) or STC (Sound Transmission Class).

Durability: Metal is quite durable, although some metals are softer than others and can be scratched or dented by hail or other objects. The geographic location and expected lifespan of a building are to be considered in terms of a material’s resilience. Make sure to inform manufacturers of the building envelope’s durability needs so that they can assist you in selecting the suitable material for your project.

Environmental Factors: It is critical to examine the ecological impact of construction material over its complete life cycle, including the manufacturing process, installation process, and long-term maintenance requirements, especially for large-scale projects. A life cycle assessment gives a rigorous approach for measuring each of these criteria when determining which cladding system style is best for your client’s demands.

Expansion & Contraction: Some metals compress and expand in response to variations in temperature, pressure, and humidity, specifying the incorrect material might result in lasting structural damage.

Fire Resistance: Metal is fire-resistant, but it’s still a good idea to check with manufacturers about your cladding’s fire-resistance criteria. To minimize unintended outcomes, it’s also vital to think about how metal cladding interacts with other elements in the building envelope.

Thermal Insulation: Because metal cladding systems often contribute little to overall wall insulation values, a sheathing board will likely need to be attached to the infill walls’ exterior face for weather and thermal protection.

Wind Action: Wind actions must be sustained and transferred to the main building structure, which necessitates the employment of building cladding systems.

Categorization

Cassette: The open-jointed style can be utilized with massive panels. It is ideal for spacious cladding areas. The cassettes are bent and attached to an aluminum framework with invisible clips, giving them a modern, flat appearance.

Flatlock and Shingle: Flatlock panels fit together to form a thin and flexible façade. The technique can also be laid backward, generating deeper express lines, known as Reversed Flatlock. A shingled metal façade can be built using panels folded into interconnected tile forms for a stunning variant on the flatlock system.

Interlocking: An interlocking system creates a smoother appearance with dramatic, express joints. The width of the metal cladding panels can vary, and they can be designed to run vertically, diagonally, or horizontally.

Standing Seam: Standing seam cladding is one of the most well-known systems, with sturdy folding connections between each panel. Its hidden fixing elements enable smooth architectural exteriors for various typologies. Aluminum galvanized, zinc, titanium, weathering (Cor-ten) steel and stainless steel are just a few metals used with standing seam systems.

Snaplock: Snaplock has a ribbed profile but does not require installing special closing equipment. These are made to snap together for a quick and easy installation.

Materials

Metal cladding refers to various materials, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Many project-specific elements will influence your material selection, including intended aesthetic, climatic circumstances, structural system, nature of neighbouring construction and materials budget. The following are some of the most common metal cladding materials.

Aluminium: Aluminum is a common cladding material for contemporary constructions since it is naturally resistant to rusting and blistering. It also has a high strength-to-weight ratio, which means its façade attachment systems are less bulky than steel panel attachment systems. However, the material is prone to denting and scratches, and it may oxidize if improperly cared for in specific environments.

Brass: Brass is a very pliable cladding material. It is well suited to adorning sheet metal work, striking a balance between the calm tone of zinc and the warmth of copper. As the surface of brass oxidizes, it develops a golden-brown patina.

Copper: Copper is a lightweight cladding choice that is robust compared to other materials and is 100% recyclable at the end of the building’s life. Due to oxidation, the metal’s faintly reflected look changes with time, turning a characteristic green colour.

Galvanized Steel: As stainless steel’s chromium layer helps prevent rusting, galvanized steel is coated in a thin layer of zinc. Galvanized steel has a variegated aesthetic aspect known as “spangle” due to visible crystallites in the coating.

Stainless Steel: Stainless steel is steel that has been coated with a fine layer of chromium oxide which prevents the oxidation process of corrosion, making the material rust-resistant. It is popular because of its smooth, polished appearance.

Titanium: Architects prefer titanium because of its lightweight, strength, and gleaming reflective appearance. A protective oxide film builds on the material’s surface over time, boosting its corrosion resistance. Titanium cladding, on the other hand, necessitates regular maintenance.

Weathering Steel: Weathering Steel, also known as COR-TEN Steel, is meant to develop a protective layer with a constant rust-like appearance over time which obviates the necessity for painting. COR-TEN cladding has a stunning earthy, industrial look. Still, it must be finished appropriately to maintain a consistent patina over time.

Zinc: Zinc is known for its weatherproof and corrosion-resistant capabilities. It is also UV-resistant and has self-healing properties.

Finishes

Finishes have a considerable impact on the performance and aesthetics of metal cladding systems. Metal façade panels come in an infinite number of treatments; talk to your manufacturer to pick the right one for your project. Among the most prevalent are the following.

Engine Turned: Its finishes have a delicate geometric pattern etched into the metal, giving them a swirled look with reflecting properties.

Mirrored: Highly polished surfaces are the most reflecting of all finishes and have a stunning look. They require a lot of upkeep to keep their glossiness.

Powder-coated: Powder coating provides a protective layer on metal and a consistent matte appearance. Powder-painted coatings come in an infinite number of hues.

Sandblasted: Sandblasting gives metal a smooth, matte finish that is practically texture-free. Steel that has been sandblasted is susceptible to corrosion and should be protected with a specific paint or other treatment.

Thermowood: Thermowood blends stunning brown tones with exceptional natural durability if you’re looking for a premium wood cladding that’s a little darker. As a thermally-modified softwood pine with medium density, this unique product delivers stability, movement (swelling), cupping, less shrinkage, and distortion than Western Red Cedar but less than Siberian Larch. Thermowood is available in various profiles and is resistant to both screws and nails.

Stone Claddings: Elegant Natural Look

The most expensive type of cladding for structures is stone cladding. These are typically offered in two varieties: synthetic stone and authentic stone. This style of architectural cladding requires a lot of time and effort to install, which raises the final cost. Stone claddings give the framework of the building an attractive, natural appearance. These are also resistant to harsh conditions such as dampness, fire, temperature, and insects and require little upkeep.

Performance

Durability: Stone is dense and robust, making it ideal for cladding purposes. Keep in mind that some stones, such as limestone, are especially susceptible to weathering. On the other hand, granite keeps its colour and pattern for an extended period. As a result, evaluate a stone’s weathering qualities before incorporating it into your project.

Installation: Natural stone installation, in most circumstances, necessitates the use of professional engineers. Make sure your fabrication crew is well-suited to carry out the construction safely.

Insulation: Thermal insulation materials are designed to limit a building envelope’s heat gain or loss and can be used with stone cladding. Non-combustible, non-absorbent, and rot- and vermin-proof insulation should be used.

Maintenance: Natural stone must be kept clean to avoid cracking over time. Furthermore, the oxidant deposits may cause stones to break down or become slippery.

Sustainability: Stone has a low environmental impact since it requires very little processing to make it usable. It may still be recycled in its natural state.

Categorization

Early on in the design process, it is critical to analyze the consequences of the weight and qualities of natural stone to develop a safe and dependable stone cladding fixing system.

Rainscreen Principle: Natural stone is becoming more popular as a material for creating stunning and high-performance rainscreen façades. A concealed or open clip system is used to attach stone panels to the building’s facade. Back-ventilated stone-clad rainscreen façades typically have an inner drainage cavity that helps quickly eliminate any rainwater that may penetrate behind them.

Traditional Handset Cladding: Natural stone is affixed to a pre-constructed backing structure in this long-standing building process. These elements work together to form a building’s outer envelope. Granite, limestone, marble, slate, and sandstone are the most frequent natural stone varieties utilized with classic handset façade cladding methods.

Materials

Natural stone is an ideal cladding material in many cases. Sedimentary rocks, such as limestone and sandstone, are separated into three geological groups: metamorphic rocks, such as slate and marble, and igneous rocks, such as granite. Architects must examine aspects when choosing the best sort of stone, including appearance, intended usage, project size, and, most critically, the composition that will offer adequate strength and durability.

Basalt: Basalt is a dark blue-grey volcanic stone used on the inside and outside of buildings. Basalt is the most frequent type of volcanic rock used in architecture and looks fine-grained. Basalt has a high insulating capacity, one of its most noticeable characteristics.

Bluestone: Bluestone is a common term for various building stone kinds. This category comprises at least twenty different varieties of blue-tinted stone, including basalt and limestone.

Granite: Granite is a coarse-grained stone composed of crystals that interlock. It’s one of the most often discovered stones on the planet, and it’s a popular building material for exterior and interior cladding. Granite is known for its long life and colour and texture consistency.

Jerusalem Stone: Jerusalem Stone is one of the oldest limestones and dolomite combination stones. This type of limestone is exceptionally dense and weather resistant compared to other limestones. As a result, Jerusalem stone is used for exterior cladding.

Limestone: Limestone is known for its versatility and visual variation. Limestone comes in colours, from pure whites to beige to subtle browns with undertones of blue. Limestone comes in various textures, from creamy and delicate to hefty and veined. Limestone is an excellent choice for constructing faces since it is reasonably easy to carve and shape.

Marble: Marble has a long and turbulent history. Marble was formerly the architect’s preferred material. Still, the difficulties of working with it and the emergence of less expensive alternatives have led to a continuous reduction in its use as a façade decoration.

Slate: Slate is a fine-grained metamorphic stone used as a cladding material on both the inside and outside of buildings. It has become a stand-out architectural material in modern design due to its attractive and sophisticated appearance, excellent water resistance, high durability, and low maintenance.

Aesthetics

The way stone is obtained, processed, and finished impacts its appearance.

Colour: Natural stone comes in a wide range of colours, as discussed in previous sections of this essay. Basalt is the dark grey stone available in pale off-white and golden pink hues. The granite comes in thousands of colours, and limestone comes in various colours ranging from white to black. If you have a specific shade in mind, talk to your manufacturer as soon as possible to see what colours are available and appropriate for your project.

Pattern: The patterns and veining of different stones have a lot of natural variabilities, just like the hue. In some situations, you may be able to order stones specifically for your project. Get a feel of the alternatives available by speaking with your manufacturers.

Texture and Finish: Stone comes in textures, from coarsely fractured to perfectly smooth. Polished, honed, and sandblasted are some of the most prevalent phrases you’ll come across in your material search.

Conclusion

Let us aim to eliminate your operational risks, build your structure, and deliver high quality and safe building solutions through strong and non-combustible modern architectural cladding systems.

What is the difference between Colorbond Walling and Colorbond Cladding?

Lance Mathews — Fri, 01 Apr 2022 15:49:25 +0000

What is the difference between Colorbond Walling and Colorbond Cladding?

The creation of a stunning external façade aesthetic to meet any design, setting, or architectural vision is our priority.

You might hear these two terms used and wonder, how are they different? Luckily, with a few guides, you will no longer need to pause in confusion when a building professional or specifier says let us proceed with the Colorbond walling installation or Colorbond cladding. Learn why they are connected, with different titles determined by their uses.

Building designers, cladding installers and owners have a wide range of color options, roofing, walling, and cladding styles to choose from and still adhere to building code standards, and all relevant Australian Standards are met (AS1397 and AS2728).

Colorbond Walling

For residential and industrial projects, COLORBOND® steel walling is a cost-effective dimension to both the character and utility of your construction, firm and secure, easy to install panels for alfresco area walls and ceilings, and provides thermal efficiency benefits.

What are the benefits of walling?

Steel walling has exceptional span capabilities, which allows you to get the most out of your structural framing to withstand the test of time. It blends well with other architectural materials and aspects due to its design flexibility and efficiency.

Colorbond Cladding

Cladding is a process of covering tiles, wooden boards, or other material that is attached to the outside of a structure to protect it from the elements that could harm it through layering one material on top of another to produce a skin covering over the walls, to improve its aesthetic appeal. It is a thermally efficient and appealing design solution as it is the most extensively used for general exterior roofing and walling installations.

What are the benefits of Colorbond Cladding?

COLORBOND® Cladding is long-lasting, chip-resistant, flake-resistant, and blister-resistant. If you are planning to reroof or replace your existing roof, consider Colorbond cladding. The standard COLORBOND® steel range includes a range of colors and profile selections to suit any location or purpose. With so many options, you can give your personality. And when selecting an outside surface for your project, think about how to extend the life of the materials. Suitability to environmental conditions like Australia’s harsh weather and sites have a significant impact on how well the materials work overtime. Building envelopes made of COLORBOND steel cladding are weather-tight and secure. The COLORBOND palette’s solar reflective colors help to improve thermal efficiency and occupant comfort. COLORBOND steel is 100% recyclable as well.

FINAL WORDS

The COLORBOND® steel material used for walling is a large range of wall finishes. The COLORBOND® steel material used for cladding is a weatherproof material placed on the outside of your home’s walls to create an outer or inner weatherproof covering. To attain the best results, each has its way of installation, and they are almost different crafts from one another. TRC has a lot of expertise installing Colorbond Wall Cladding. Our team exceeds your expectations by ensuring that every project is built to the greatest possible standard. These are designed to suit the changing needs of the environment, with a focus on durability, dependability, and sustainability, offering our clients the confidence to create for years to come.

15 Exterior Cladding Design Ideas

Lance Mathews — Wed, 23 Mar 2022 07:26:01 +0000

15 Exterior Cladding Design Ideas

We’ve been around for over two decades and have seen the incredible evolution of exterior cladding designs. It’s not just about protecting our structures anymore; it adds charm and personality to our spaces .

Over the years, we’ve witnessed a revolution in architectural trends, from modern designs’ chic simplicity to natural textures’ timeless appeal. And guess what? We’ve gathered the best of the best just for you!

Are you an architect looking for fresh ideas? Or perhaps a homeowner eager to revamp your space? Well, you’re in the right place.

Join me as we dive into the artistry of exterior cladding, where traditional craftsmanship meets cutting-edge materials. Each idea I present isn’t just a concept; it’s a potential transformation for your home or building. And the best part? These ideas are more accessible than ever before!

What's Interesting About Exterior Claddings

As experienced cladding installers, we’ve seen that exterior cladding design ideas have evolved significantly during the last decade. What’s in now can lose its trend a few years from now.

Exterior cladding design ideas have evolved significantly during the last decade. Whether it’s a newly built structure or one that needs remodeling, choosing the right design and appropriate materials can excellently transform the aesthetics of your construction. Exterior cladding designs can be created from various materials, such as Colorbond wall cladding, but your home may be significantly altered by the wall cladding design you choose.

However, like what we often tell our clients, a structure’s exterior is much more than initial impressions and curb appeal. Exterior wall cladding is a high-performance material that protects the building and its interiors from the elements: the sun, rain, wind, temperature extremes, fire, moisture, noise, pests, and even pollutants.

We have proven and tested that exterior cladding is an excellent insulator. It protects against structural damage and boosts interior energy efficiency. It is a versatile and cost-effective alternative for enhancing the function and durability of your property by improving its tolerance and resistance to external impacts. With proper maintenance, we are happy to see that most of our previous exterior cladding projects are impeccable, even after several years.

Installing Cladding on Your Next Project

Exterior cladding designs may be created from various materials, but with so many possibilities now accessible to architects, choosing the right one for your next project can be challenging.

Choosing a cladding material isn’t only a matter of deciding on a budget; it’s also a matter of considering other factors. We consider local climate since your cladding material must withstand specific circumstances such as exposure to corrosive sea air, high winds, seismic impacts, and severe temperatures and colds. Cladding products that exceed fire-resistant criteria minimize the environmental effect of buildings and provide safety.

Let us dig deeper into understanding the exterior cladding or recladding design options for your next project.

Cladding Types

Now, I know the term “cladding types” might sound a bit technical, but stick with me because I’m here to break it down in the simplest way possible.

Imagine you’re trying to pick the right outfit for a special occasion. You want something that looks good and keeps you comfortable in different weather conditions. Cladding for buildings works in a similar way. It’s like choosing the perfect ‘outfit’ for your home or office that enhances its appearance and provides essential protection.

Wood Exterior Cladding

You can use wood cladding creatively to take your house or commercial property’s exterior to the next level, from a sophisticated, subtle finish to a dramatic, eye-catching design.

Hardwood has long been a popular choice for exterior cladding. It is still popular today because it’s a tried-and-true option that has been relied on for decades. While hardwood exterior cladding is traditional, it does not necessarily have a traditional look. Hardwood is now available in various shapes and patterns that blend well with contemporary interior design. When done correctly, Hardwood may be used as a modern external cladding across properties.

Wood cladding is timeless. You can go for a subtle finish or something bold and eye-catching. It’s not just about tradition; hardwood cladding today comes in various shapes and patterns, blending perfectly with modern designs. Plus, it’s termite-resistant and can withstand earthquakes. Just a tip: a good stain or paint job can keep it looking fresh for years.

Brick Wall Cladding

Brick cladding is like bringing the essence of a classic, timeless era to your home. It gives your house a sturdy, traditional vibe. While it might be a bit heavier on the pocket and labor-intensive, the elegance it adds to your home is unmatched.

If you opt for colors, bricks have more options available, making them excellent for home and commercial buildings. Brick is one of the most well-known and long-lasting options out there. Brick cladding is thermally efficient, fire-resistant, and weatherproof. They also provide excellent sound insulation. Additionally, bricks may be reused, recycled, or broken to make or manufacture new bricks.

The ability of brick to generate patterns via various stacking configurations gives it a wide diversity of aesthetics. One may render over them for a timeless aesthetic or go for exposed brickwork. Unpainted bricks are lightweight, simple to work with, and need low maintenance.

Bricks are available in various colors, sizes, finishes, and textures, making them ideal for various design projects.

Brick cladding is ideal in fire-prone places and has the most satisfactory waterproofing characteristics. This artwork is available in various colors, sizes, textures, and finishes, adding to its versatility. Bricks are generally made of non-toxic recycled materials.

Mixed Material Cladding

Horizontal lap cladding adds length to a building, but it may seem shorter in one-story dwellings. The cladding may be used in conjunction with other materials to elevate the wood a few feet above ground level before it begins to help produce apparent height. There may be no molding or trim board here, and the materials used, such as brick or natural stone at the bottom of the structure, may be basic and subdued, all of which add to the facade’s contemporary look.

Fibre Cement Wall Cladding

Have you heard of fiber cement wall cladding?

Fiber cement wall cladding, commonly known as Harditex cladding, is a high-performance, low-maintenance external cladding system with 14 horizontal and vertical grooved boards and rectangular and square panels.

These cladding boards and panels, made from a unique fiber cement formulation, exceed BAL 40 fire regulations and have a fire rating of up to 60 minutes while used with Smart wall systems. The Fibre Cement Wall Cladding series is available in various wood finishes and may be nailed to wood frames or attached to light gauge steel frames. The boards are pre-primed and ready to paint.

Boards and Battens Cladding

A vertical cladding installation may contrast the façade of long, sweeping homes that are modern in style. A stunning board and batten installation determines the building’s horizontal lines and provides texture and depth to the exterior. The bigger, thicker battens give the traditional siding pattern a contemporary touch.

Lightweight Brick-Finish Exterior Cladding

High-rise structures and restorations may benefit from the magnificent brick finish provided by Corium, a lightweight ventilated rain-screen facade system. Brick tiles designed for the Corium system automatically clip onto a galvanized steel or stainless steel backing, and mortar is pumped in using a pump to complete the installation process.

Using the corium brick finish cladding system, you can create custom designs with a wide range of colours and textures. Compared to typical brickwork, corium saves both time and money in the building process. Concrete, wood frame, structural steel, lightweight steel frames, and masonry are suitable substrates for lightweight cladding.

Prefinished Fibre Cement Panels

Concrete cladding or prefinished fiber cement panels have a magnificent raw cement surface that sets them apart from others. Cement, sand, cellulose fiber, and water are the raw materials for prefinished fiber cement panels, which weather naturally and fit into the landscape. The stone finish provides a sophisticated contrast to any modern or classic design scheme.

Fibre cement panels prefinished for building facades are light, durable, low-maintenance, and simple to install. Prefinished panels are weather-resistant, making them ideal for external cladding.

Aluminum Architectural Cladding

Aesthetics, durability, weather resistance, and ease of care are all factors to consider when selecting an exterior cladding material. Aluminum Architectural Cladding may be a perfect choice. With various long-lasting wood treatments to choose from, an aluminum architectural cladding system provides the highest fire rating testing certification.

This type of architectural cladding Melbourne services provides an interlocking tongue-and-groove design for hidden attachment and a clean wood finish. To satisfy design requirements, the profiles may be mounted vertically and horizontally.

Commercial and residential buildings may benefit from the non-combustible aluminum architectural cladding’s authentic timber treatments, including White Oak, Beechwood, Walnut, Sapele, Mahogany and Cherry, and Antique Grey Charred. A heat transfer procedure is used to produce the appearance of natural wood.

Aluminum and Zinc Cladding

Aluminum and zinc cladding, like steel cladding, may be incredibly robust and need little to no upkeep. Exterior cladding created from aluminum and zinc is excellent in corrosive situations and may be almost waterproof. But this cladding encourages condensation and is not the most effective insulator.

Ceramic Cladding

Ceramic tiles have been utilized for wall cladding since ancient Egypt. Terracotta rain-screen cladding and brick slip systems have become popular in recent years. Ceramic rain-screen cladding systems effectively protect a building’s structure from the elements while also providing pleasing aesthetics.

Vinyl Wall Cladding

Using vinyl cladding for exterior cladding is one of the most durable and popular options on the market. Timber-look cladding and weatherboards with natural wood grain textures are now available in the form of vinyl wall cladding. Cladding brick houses with this high-end cladding line provides both thermal and acoustic benefits, making it ideal for Australian homes.

Vinyl Wall It cladding is low-maintenance, long-lasting, and comes with a 50-year guarantee. CFC-free solid foam insulation is combined with vinyl cladding to prevent peeling, cracking, rotting, splitting, or splintering. Weatherboard, corrugated iron, concrete, and brick can be fitted with vinyl cladding.

Natural Stone Cladding

Sandstone, bluestone, slate, and quartzite are all-natural stone cladding. Natural stone cladding may be used for a wide range of applications, including walls around pools or retaining walls and staircases and around columns or fountains. You should choose a natural stone that blends well with your surroundings. As a result, the discoloration of high-density stones is less likely to occur. Cleanliness is more straightforward when using darker natural stone cladding. On the other hand, lighter colors will need more frequent cleanings to keep them from staining.

Natural stone or tile cladding enhances the value of contemporary houses because of their dramatic appearance. On the other hand, natural stone is very durable, functions as a superb insulator, resists fire, withstand abrasions and scratches, and can be readily maintained. On the other hand, natural stone may be more costly and require more work than other wall cladding materials. Structural support is also required for natural stone cladding.

3D Exterior Cladding

In today’s architecture, three-dimensional cladding is becoming increasingly popular. 3D exterior cladding design, on the other hand, maybe a bit of a divide in the design world; you either accept or reject it. Some very great projects utilize 3D exterior cladding and some horrifying ones. Nonetheless, the inventiveness shown by the utilization of flexible materials is commendable.

Metal Cladding

Historically, metal cladding (Colorbond steel cladding) has been used to construct exterior facades on various structures. Our personal favorite, metal cladding, significantly extends design options with a palette of 22 standard colors and five matt tones. Steel cladding has various advantages, including a long lifetime, resistance to chipping, flaking, and blistering, fire resistance, ease of maintenance, and low weight.

Metal cladding produces weather-tight and secure building envelopes when fitted to the manufacturer’s requirements. The sun-reflecting colors in the metal Cladding (colorbond steel) palette help to improve thermal efficiency and occupant comfort and colorbond steel is 100% recyclable.

Metal Mesh Cladding

Now, this is where things get interesting. Metal mesh cladding is incredibly versatile. You can mold it into various shapes, creating visually stunning architectural designs. Privacy screens, sun protection – you name it, the metal mesh can do it.

Our Expert Exterior Cladding Tips

We get it – choosing the right exterior cladding for your home can be a daunting task. But fear not because we’ve got your back.

Here’s our ultimate guide just for you:

Recognize Your Needs

Recognize your home’s requirements before exploring cladding solutions. Is insulation a top priority? Are you trying to find a low-maintenance answer? Your options will be more limited if you are aware of your needs.

Budget Wisely

Make a sensible spending plan. The price of cladding can vary greatly, so having a set budget in mind can make it easier for you to consider solutions that won’t break the bank.

Consider Climate

The way various cladding materials respond to the weather varies. AL weather where you live. Some materials hold up better in the rain, while others perform best in the sun. The key to longevity is selecting a cladding material that can survive the temperature in your area.

Maintenance Is Important

Regarding the level of upkeep you’re willing to provide, be sincere. While wood and brick may need more attention, vinyl and metal claddings are minimal maintenance. Choose a material that works with your maintenance schedule and ability.

Consider Aesthetics

The cladding has two purposes: protection and aesthetics. Consider your home’s architectural design and the desired aesthetic appeal. There is cladding material that complements your aesthetic preferences, whether you want a rustic, modern, or traditional appearance.

Consult Professionals

Consult experts if you need clarification on something. Experts in cladding, like us, with extensive experience, can offer insightful advice suited to your requirements. They may aid in material selection and assure appropriate installation, increasing the effectiveness and durability of your cladding.

Sustainability Matters

Consider sustainable cladding solutions in today’s environmentally sensitive world. Recycled metal, repurposed wood, and eco-friendly composites are just a few materials that help the environment and give your house a distinctive look.

The Final Thought

Exterior wall cladding has become a popular option for improving the aesthetic appeal of your exteriors and ensuring high protection against a variety of elements. It is a cost-effective solution intended to give your building exteriors the facelift they need. You may choose from a range of exterior wall cladding options to instantly enhance your home’s aesthetic; whatever kind of cladding material you pick, don’t forget about the practical aspect.

Acoustic Metal Cladding

Lance Mathews — Thu, 21 Oct 2021 13:03:29 +0000

Acoustic Metal Cladding

Acoustical characteristics determine how materials react to sound waves. It is well known that when there is a disturbance in a body of water, waves develop and move in all directions away from the disturbance. Air is a fluid that generates airwaves that move in all directions in response to disturbances. Airwaves are pressure peaks and valleys that may be sensed as air pressure oscillations at a particular frequency. When the frequency of these oscillating airwaves is between 16 and 16,000 hertz, the human ear interprets them as sound (16 kHz).

Mechanical longitudinal waves are used to transmit sound waves through a material medium. If a substance has any degree of elasticity, it can transmit sound waves (elastic bonds between molecules). This is true for the majority of materials. As a result, sound may travel through gases such as air and liquids.

A mechanical disturbance, such as turning on a machine with moving components that cause the air to vibrate at a specific frequency may produce sound waves. These air vibrations are sound waves that move in all directions. Because of the fluctuating air pressure, these sound waves will hit our eardrums and cause them to vibrate at the same frequency if we are standing close. The vibrations in the eardrums are detected by the human ear, which sends these vibrations to the brain as nerve impulses through the inner ear. We hear sound when this occurs. This process also implies that sound waves must travel through a medium (gas, liquid, or solid) between the source and the reception (the machine and human ear) to be produced and communicated. As a result, sound cannot exist in a vacuum.

Acoustic Metal Panels

When it comes to sound absorption goods, metal is not typically the first material that springs to mind. Still, when metal is coupled with state-of-the-art acoustic materials, the results are exceptional in terms of both the acoustic performance of metal cladding and its aesthetics.

Acoustical metal panels have excellent sound absorption properties and may be used in various environments and applications. The perforated metal acoustic panels are durable enough to endure harsh industrial settings while still looking good enough to blend in with the high-end decor. Restaurants, airports, music halls, workplaces, retail, industrial facilities, and many other locations benefit from these cost-effective and simple-to-install alternatives. We provide a graphics option to personalize panels for an even more distinctive noise reduction solution, enhancing aesthetic enjoyment even more.

Applicability spectrum

By using metallic construction to create an enclosure (hood), a barrier, or a screen, it is possible to achieve sound attenuation or sound insulation while restricting the increase in noise level amplification on one side but not on the other of the acoustic protection barrier.

Acoustic claddings with one absorbing face are highly appropriate.
In the case of a primary wall effect or a double wall effect that is wanted (adjustable according to the constitution of panels)

What Is Acoustic Cladding, And How Does It Work?

Acoustic solutions are becoming more popular, and you will discover various options, including acoustic panels. Acoustic baffles hung from the ceiling are only one kind of acoustic treatment. If you are experiencing acoustic issues in your office, studio, or meeting space, there are a variety of different options open.

Acoustic panels are sound-absorbing panels that are used to reduce background noise, reverberation, and echoes in a room or environment by absorbing sound. An acoustic panel is used in the broadest meaning when discussing acoustics and includes vertical and horizontal panels.

When it comes to sound management, perforated metal may be an essential component. But how does it function? How architects and designers utilize perforated metal to control noise, as well as some of the main advantages of specifying perforated metal for acoustic applications, are outlined hereunder:

Using Perforated Metal In Acoustics

To reduce sound and noise in residential, recreational, and commercial buildings, perforated metal is often used as ceiling panels, wall cladding, screening, and architectural façade.

Each panel may be configured to absorb, reflect, scatter, or block off specific frequencies depending on the acoustic problem.

Tips Using Perforated Metal In Acoustic Metal Cladding

Sound Absorption Using Perforated Metal

Perforated metal serves as a protective and acoustically transparent covering for acoustic material while absorbing, reflecting, or dispersing sound. Because the acoustic material is responsible for noise management, the perforated metal must be transparent to sound waves to reach the substance behind it.

When utilizing perforated metal in this manner for acoustics, it’s critical to choose a hole pattern and material that provides the most sound transparency at all frequencies. This is usually a perforation pattern with many tiny, closely spaced holes to enable the most amount of sound to flow through.

Interiors may benefit from this kind of treatment. When ambient sound management is required, it is frequently found in businesses, hotels, stadiums, schools, recreational centers, and industrial work settings. Perforated metal may also be used as external cladding to prevent outdoor noises by architects.

Managing Frequencies Using Perforated Metal

Perforated metal is not needed to be transparent if you want to cut out or decrease a particular issue noise. Still, it does play an active role in acoustic management through a resonant sound absorber.

The holes in the perforated metal panels interact with a layer of trapped air in this kind of application to focus the absorbed sounds into a specific frequency range. Low-frequency sound absorption is quite effective with these systems

The Benefits Of Perforated Metal In Acoustics

Aluminum and stainless steel are the most popular materials for the perforated metal in acoustics because they maintain strength even when perforated in the smallest profile. Perforated metals have many advantages in acoustics:

Perforated metal is a satisfying answer to sound issues since it comes in various patterns and finishes, including powder-coated, coloured, and metallic coatings.
It has a broad range of perforation patterns, including holes of various sizes, shapes, and pitches.
Perforated metal panels for acoustic applications, mainly architectural, may be folded to provide ornamental visual appeal while reflecting or controlling noise.
It is long-lasting and straightforward to maintain without affecting the acoustic material’s function.

Insulation And Acoustic Absorption Are Not Synonymous

Acoustic insulation, which is usually accomplished by installing solid boards when the structure is built, may decrease echo and sound pollution from the outside or from one room to the next. As a result, acoustic panels aren’t the best choice for insulating areas subjected to external noise pollution. Their primary function is to absorb sound that enters the room.

Problems

The materials used in the building’s construction, such as glass, concrete, or metal, may cause sound reverberation. It may also be the result of a furniture shortage.

Correcting the sound reverberation in a space may enhance auditory and health comfort. With the development of open spaces, sound problems in professional spaces are becoming increasingly common.

Resonance

As a result, there are several ramifications that you should be aware of. When noise and voices are loud, sound reverberation produces an unpleasant noise sensation.

When Is It Appropriate To Use Acoustic Metal Cladding?

The primary advantage of enhancing the acoustics of a space is that it improves the inhabitants’ well-being and acoustic comfort. When a room’s echo or sound resonance is too powerful, acoustic panels are employed. This may be because of the building’s construction elements (glass, concrete, or metal) or simply because the décor is too simple.

Sound that echoes may create the appearance of distracting background noise because the loudness of the sound has increased. Excessively high resonance rooms cause irreversible loss of intelligibility, causing fatigue and lack of focus in its inhabitants. If done correctly, acoustic metal cladding is instantly effective regardless of the area in question.

The Final Word

Acoustic metal cladding absorbs sound, which helps to decrease reverberation levels in a confined area. The sound-reflecting surface is reduced in reflectivity. Surface perforations enable sound to be absorbed by acoustic backing materials via the surface of the material. By doing so, you may minimize unnecessary background noise, improve communication and attention, and reduce stress.

The Safest Types Of Cladding

Lance Mathews — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 08:40:54 +0000

The Safest Types Of Cladding

Cladding is a dual-purpose finishing method that resembles a surface or an outer non-load bearing coat. It not only serves to shield the building’s interiors from the elements, but it also renders the exterior decorative and appealing. The correct cladding tends to keep buildings weather-tight and cost-effective while still providing thermal insulation and reducing temperature variations inside. It also aids in the enhancement of indoor acoustics and daylighting.

The cladding will affect the building’s worth, saleability, and protection. As a result, effectively cladding the property is a smart move that yields short and long-term dividends. There are more cladding systems on the market today than there have ever been. Finding the best option can take some time, but cladding is a perfect way to imprint your design on a home when used creatively and intelligently.

Are you ready to upgrade your cladding but don’t know where to start? Here’s a quick rundown on different types of cladding materials and the safest one out of them all.

Types Of Cladding

Cladding fabrics now come in a wide variety. You can think about more than just one factor when choosing which kind of cladding to use for your structures. They consist of:

Wood Cladding

Because of its insulation properties, wood cladding not only protects the building but also saves electricity. Natural wood’s elegant impact can be blended with either interior or exterior, improving the building’s look.

Stone Cladding

Stone cladding offers the walls a more natural appearance while still adding a touch of beauty. To minimise weight, stones are quarried and slashed into tiny fragments. This is then painted on the buildings, giving them an earthy, rustic appearance.

Ceramic Cladding

Ceramic cladding is low in weight and needs less upkeep. It comes in a variety of textures and patterns, making it a standard option among architects. The material is long-lasting, simple to disinfect, and immune to the elements.

Tile Cladding

The aesthetic appearance of tile cladding turns a home into a modern haven. The design possibilities are endless since various tile sizes can be combined to create a distinctive and polished look.

Porcelain Cladding

This form of cladding is commonly found on a structure’s exterior. It is non-porous and does not collect soil on the floor. Porcelain is one of the best fabrics for cladding since it is prone to thermal shock and scratches.

Curtain wall cladding:

This is a form of cladding that is typically used on multistory buildings. They’re made up of lightweight aluminium frames with glazed panels attached to them. This decreases the amount of heat that enters the house, making it more relaxed and providing a lighter, calmer, and healthier atmosphere.

Metal Cladding

Keep in mind that with a suitable coating, you will be able to choose the best cladding for your house. Zinc and aluminium are the two often used metals for metal cladding. For sure homeowners, metal cladding is always the preferred alternative.

Metal siding is affordable and well designed for budget-conscious homeowners to enhance the looks of their properties. Most people go for steel panels as they are hard to harm and solid. Many others use aluminium-clad solutions because of their fire resistance characteristics, but it often protects the surrounding structures from destruction.

Color, pattern, and shape are the main benefits of metal cladding. A good concept can stand the test of time, even under extreme conditions. It’s a good choice for shielding buildings because it does an excellent job of protecting the walls from harm.

Aluminium

Aluminium is non-corroding and doesn’t blister easily, making it suitable for many applications. As used, it has a lower weight than steel connection devices. However, it can dent and scrape in environmental conditions, so it must be treated with special care.

Steel

Stainless steel is generally described as steel coated with chromium oxide. By incorporating chromium into the material, corrosion is prevented, which means that it resists rusting. It is also a standard option because it has a pristine, shiny finish.

It is zinc-plated steel much like chromium-plated steel that tends to resist corrosion. The appearance of visible crystallites in the coating is regarded as a “spangle” on galvanised steel.

Titanium

Titanium is widely preferred because it is small in weight, more robust, and has a beautiful reflective finish. Eventually, an anti-corrosive oxide layer is formed on the soil, boosting its resilience to corrosion. Maintenance is needed to prevent browning of titanium during building.

Zinc

It is recognised for being durable and impervious to weather and corrosion. It can also withstand the adverse effects of UV rays and self-healing qualities; also, if it is scratched, it can return to its original state over time.

Vinyl Cladding

For those who don’t have time to maintain their sheets, vinyl sheets in cladding are the best option. Vinyl claddings are popular among cladding installers because they require little maintenance. The only requirement for this cladding system is to be cleaned regularly to prevent debris from piling up and causing unnecessary problems.

Terracotta Cladding

Terracotta Cladding It is an alternative to brick cladding which offers the building a seamless appearance. Terracotta cladding is non-flammable and fire-prone, and it can be used on both new and historic structures.

Concrete Cladding

For a sleek and authentic look, concrete is an easy alternative. This is a low-cost, lightweight, and simple-to-cut and installs option. The cladding has changed the way structures have appeared in the past. End consumers are looking for something different now, and architects are working hard to invent and conceptualise effective solutions. With the advancement of technologies and the improvement of architectural standards, there will undoubtedly be a wide variety of cladding resources accessible in the future.

Safest Type Of Cladding

You don’t have to spend months or years trying to figure out which material is best for your cladding project. For the most part, you might have used woad or timber, brick or stone, as well as vinyl cladding. But do you realise how incredible and exclusive metal cladding panels are?

Metal should be the first option for cladding. When it comes to cladding buildings and houses, there are many advantages to utilising metal. They are as follows:

Fire Resistance

Because of its ability to withstand ignition, metal cladding is often used as part of a fire-resistant assembly. According to the International Building Code, metal panels are classified Class A for exterior fire exposure when mounted over open framing or a non-flammable substrate.

Class A classified metals are safe against extreme fire test exposures. Claddings of this class provide a high level of fire safety to the walls. These do not fall out of position and are great thermal insulators. Metal cladding offers builders a good option of fire-resistant exterior content carrying a broad palette of colours in high fire risk areas where an excess of dry timber is a lightning strike away from a conflagration.

Toughness

Metal cladding is one of the most robust choices of all cladding products in terms of durability. With a solid surface, it is less likely to be impacted by external forces and is less likely to be impaired. Corrosion, water disruption, and electrochemical reactions are not a problem for the metal claddings. It is helpful if you use them for interior or exterior purposes. Metal claddings have a long life that will last for years without the need for building maintenance or restoration.

Easy to Install

Metal cladding is the simplest to install than stone or other forms of cladding. You will get them mounted even faster, and there is no need for intensive labour work. Since they are made of lightweight and more comprehensive pieces, they can cover a more significant space in a shorter amount of time. Installing metal claddings is made much simpler with advanced fastening devices.

Flexibility

Flexibility Metal cladding may be used on the whole exterior of the building or on small areas to provide a complementary appearance. You can offer your building the look you like with its flexible use.

Broad Range

You may choose from a wide range of fabrics, colours, patterns, forms, and sizes based on your preferences. You may also select the form of content. Since metal claddings are available in various materials such as aluminium, steel, copper, zinc, and others, you may make the right choice to improve the appearance and value of your home.

Eco-friendly

All metal cladding variants are environmentally safe and readily recyclable. Using metal claddings allows you to reduce the number of carbon footprints in the atmosphere. It contributes to the long-term viability of the environment

Low-Cost

Metal cladding is the perfect alternative for a low-cost cladding option. They are very affordable as compared to other cladding products. Furthermore, since they have lower labour costs and need less upkeep, the metal cladding will help you save still more money.

Conclusion

Cladding should be included in the post-construction fire protection review before every structure is turned over. Building owners and managers can quickly obtain valuable details by recording the cladding’s precise dimensions, design, and fire danger. If rules adjust in the future, renovations are needed, or the cladding must be recalled or replaced, the documents should be readily available and actionable.

With that said, choose the cladding material that you feel is the safest for your building. But remember that metal cladding is one of the safest types of claddings for fire resistance.

Wood Look Metal Cladding

Lance Mathews — Sun, 17 Oct 2021 08:00:22 +0000

Wood Look Metal Cladding

Metal cladding is a process that involves applying a layer of a second metal to the surface of a first metal (or composite) utilizing diffusion, deformation, and lasers.

Cladding benefits from allowing the method and material to be tailored to the desired requirements and the necessary bond strength. Ceramic and metallic coatings may both be done using the laser beam cladding technique. Effective cooling provides a superior microstructure in such situations, resulting in just a tiny region being thermally impacted. The surfaces may acquire sufficient wear resistance with metal cladding. Complex forms may also be used using this technique.

For corrosion and abrasion protection, metal cladding is also utilized on the outside surfaces of structures and buildings. Because it is self-cleaning, aluminum cladding is ideal for installations that offer maintenance free architectural cladding.

Timber Look Metal Cladding

Aluminum

Aluminum boards produced via a rigorous and creative manufacturing method that appears just like genuine wood will give your structure a natural and harmonious sense.

Aluminum combines the characteristics of wood and stone to produce a one-of-a-kind product with the natural appearance and workability of wood with durability, strength, and fire resistance of aluminum. These wood panels offer everything you might want in a wood panel: they appear like natural wood yet won’t decay or burn. The boards are long-lasting and low-maintenance.

Aluminum is a commercial cladding metal with timber look that comes in a variety of styles. If you can’t find the precise colour you want, the aluminum cladding may create bespoke designs that are customized to your specifications.

Aluminum is one of the world’s most environmentally friendly metals. It is the most recycled industrial metal in terms of percentage. Aluminum is a one-of-a-kind metal that is strong, long-lasting, flexible, impermeable, lightweight, and fully recyclable.

The aluminum cladding system provides a metal cladding timber look, a non-combustible but flexible wood finish cladding alternative that solves the disadvantages of conventional wood. Aluminum cladding is a maintenance-free architectural cladding solution since it is fast and straightforward to install.

The capability of aluminum in creating wood effect metal cladding offers natural beauty and the timeless appeal of wood that is greener, safer, stronger, and simpler to use than wood. You have the most comprehensive variety of aluminum inspired by the natural world, from classic warm woodland colours to dark contemporary ashes.

Benefits Of Timber Look Aluminum Cladding

Architects and designers may use timber look aluminum to give a project a natural wood appearance when it would otherwise be impossible. Designers may avoid weight limitations and fire compliance problems, compel them to compromise the overall design purpose by using a lightweight, non-combustible material like aluminum.

Why Use Wood-Look Aluminum?

As an interior lining or outer cladding material, aluminum comes in a wide variety of finishes, and it’s often utilized on projects such as facades, interior walls, soffits and ceilings.

Timber appearance alternatives, including powder coat and anodized options, are a popular choice due to the following advantages over conventional wood battens and cladding:

Aluminum is non-combustible and the prominent reason designers and architects prefer to employ a wood-look aluminum product is to comply with fire regulations. Aluminum is fire resistant to the highest standards and may be utilized in virtually any application.
Aluminum is a more durable metal. When compared to wood, aluminum is more robust and more resistant to movement. This allows for longer lengths and wider spacing between fixes, resulting in less visible disturbance and a quicker installation.
Aluminum linings are lighter and more resistant to movement than other materials. Because of the hollow form of the battens and the decreased thickness of the cladding boards, aluminum battens and cladding usually weigh less than wood equivalents. This reduces the overall weight of the feature wall or ceiling, requiring less structural support.
Timber goods are prone to movement due to variables such as dampness, while aluminum is highly robust and does not warp or cup-like wood.
Traditional wood facades need care every 6-12 months when used externally, involving re-coating depending on the intended result. This maintenance plan may be cut in half by utilizing wood-look aluminum, requiring little to no upkeep.

Options Of Wood-Look Metal Cladding

Aluminum has two wood-look alternatives, Wood Finish Aluminium and a Real Timber Veneer range, both of which offer the appropriate answer based on your project’s requirements.

Both varieties are created using a technique that involves wrapping aluminum battens in a thin covering. The finest grade resources from across the globe are used in this procedure. The coating is glued into place using a particular wrapping machine, which utilizes a series of rollers to create a firm bond.

Aluminum With Timber Finish

A thin vinyl covering is placed around the aluminum battens in the wood finish aluminum series. A photorealistic wood appearance pattern is printed on this coating to give the timber appeal with metal cladding wood. There are ten colours to choose from, all of which are inspired by genuine wood species.

Exterior Cladding Grade

The flexibility to utilize wood finish aluminum on both inside and outdoor applications is its most significant benefit. The aluminum, the wrap layer, and the glue that holds them together have all been thoroughly tested to guarantee long-term function.

Highly Fade-Resistant

When selecting a wood substitute, the capacity of the coating to maintain its colour is crucial. To prevent the natural greying process that wood undergoes, many designers choose timber look aluminum. According to long-term testing under simulated weather conditions, our Wood Finish Aluminium is up to three times more resistant to fading than comparable woodgrain powder coat rivals.

Real Wood Veneer

Natural Wood veneer is made out of metal cladding wood that is then supplied in rolls. Wrapping machines are then used to apply the veneer on our aluminum battens, blades, or cladding. Genuine timber veneer comes in a limited selection of four colours due to the additional processing required when utilizing natural wood. The following are some of the benefits of this wood-look option:

Authentic Variation

Re-creating the inherent variety in colour that wood offers are a problem with any lumber substitute. Natural characteristics of wood, such as knots and gum veins, are challenging to reproduce in a repetitive pattern at scale. Natural Timber Veneer may offer this degree of diversity by utilizing natural wood as its covering, frequently making it indistinguishable from a conventional timber feature wall or ceiling.

Original Material

Many designers strive to avoid utilizing materials that are seen as fake in their work. Fire compliance is often at odds with this strategy since materials like wood do not satisfy the fire compliance standards of a given region. The Timber Veneer combines the best of both worlds by using natural wood as a covering while yet being fire-safe

Final Thoughts

Wood look metal cladding is available in a variety of colors and finishes. It is often used on projects such as facades, internal walls, soffits, and ceilings to extend the structure’s life span by making it stronger and more resistant to movement. While wood cladding is more susceptible to fire, metal cladding is both fire and rot-resistant and has an appealing aesthetic appearance.

How To Paint Metal Cladding?

Lance Mathews — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 02:27:06 +0000

How To Paint Metal Cladding?

Over the past few decades, metal cladding has stolen the show as the top choice for commercial buildings and installations. It’s durable and sleek and gives your structure that polished look. But here’s the deal – as time goes by, you’ve got to make the call on the right metal cladding paint for your property.

However, like any part of your house, your roof cladding is not immune to wear and tear. You might notice the color dancing, turning a bit chalky, or rust showing up, especially around those trusty bolts and fasteners.

But you might be wondering, can you paint a metal cladding? Definitely, yes! As experienced cladding installers in Melbourne for almost 20 years, we’ve seen it all. The good news is that with the right techniques and quality metal cladding paint, you can breathe new life into your structure, ensuring it looks fantastic and stands up to the elements with resilience.

Can You Paint Metal Cladding?

In a nutshell, the answer is yes. As a cladding company with lots of experience installing and maintaining cladding materials, we consider painting metal cladding as a practical and efficient solution, whether you want to update the look, prevent corrosion, or change the colour to fit your changing style preferences.

Why Paint Your Metal Cladding?

Enhancement of Aesthetics: Metal cladding may exhibit fading, discoloration, or wear over time. Applying a new coat of paint can revitalise the appearance and give your home a sleek, contemporary appeal.

Protection Against Corrosion: Due to its environmental exposure, metal cladding is susceptible to rust or corrosion over time. Good paint serves as a barrier to protect the metal from the elements, increasing its lifespan.

Customization: Whether you want to match your cladding to a new design scheme or simply update its look, painting allows for customization. The possibilities are virtually endless, allowing you to achieve the aesthetic you desire.

How To Paint Metal Cladding?

Painting metal cladding is an excellent method to make your building’s exterior more appealing. Cladding provides aesthetic value to the structure for which it is installed. Metal cladding is somewhat more challenging to install than other types of cladding. While it is true that painting on more complex materials is much easier than painting on softer ones, painting metal cladding takes time, dedication, and imagination.

The several steps to be undertaken for metal cladding painting involve:

Choosing A Paint Colour For Your Metal Cladding

The first and most crucial step is to choose a colour. Selecting the correct colour for your metal claddings is much more essential than you may imagine. Any colour you pick must be appropriate for your needs. However, you must exercise caution in choosing a colour for your metal cladding. It’s not a good idea to use bright colours while painting the metal cladding of a modest house in the suburbs. As a result, one must choose a colour that complements the whole structure.

Deciding On How You Would Like To Paint

The next step is to choose the process of painting your metal cladding. If you’re going to paint metal cladding yourself, spray paint is the way to go. However, traditional brushes and rollers may also be used to paint; using these requires a bit more care. Metals have many curves, which may be difficult to reach with a conventional brush. However, in the right hands, the brush may also perform well. When painting metal claddings, spray painting is the most outstanding choice for giving your structure a solid, professional appearance. Painting your metal cladding using a brush, on the other hand, is also an option so long as you’re prepared to put in the effort.

Applying a Base Coat

When painting metal cladding, it is essential to follow the correct procedures. If your structure is brand new, you may need to prime it first. Additionally, if your structure needs it, you must apply an undercoat first to ensure that the paint adheres to the surface. The use of an undercoat extends the longevity of your paintwork. Overall, if the painting is done correctly and carefully, it may endure for fifteen to twenty years before you need metal cladding re-spraying. In this scenario, you may use a variety of primers and undercoats. However, before you start painting, you should make sure that your structure requires either. You may look up the many kinds of primers on the market and which one to use on the internet.

Priming

Primer is not required for all cladding systems. On the other hand, primers may preserve the surface against deterioration and offer a simple foundation for applying a topcoat. If there are rust spots, spot priming may be required to address those minor issue areas. Ignoring these difficulties will lead to more severe problems in the future. Surface flaws will always show through unless suitable materials are used to coat them.

A metal cladding primer is recommended for priming cladding that hasn’t been painted previously. It’s excellent for bare metal surfaces, giving the necessary protection while also preparing the surface for the topcoat. It may be painted directly on fresh or worn cladding to prevent it from further oxidation.

After that, you may apply the topcoat using whatever method you want. However, it’s essential to verify that the corroded parts have been addressed to guarantee the system’s lifespan.

Metal Cladding Topcoat

After the surface has been well primed, you may begin applying the topcoat. The metal cladding topcoat is the best topcoat to use if you apply the correct method of priming.

There is no need to prime if the cladding has already been painted and the current layer of paint is still in good condition. Commercial structures are often exposed to the elements. The most frequent problem they encounter is UV exposure, which causes the paint to fade. Metal cladding topcoat is excellent if all you want to do is alter the colour of the topcoat or just freshen it up.

Painting claddings should be done as little as possible to avoid making a mess. The number of connections should be kept to a bare minimum if more than one colour is involved. Remember that this kind of painting requires accuracy, so be sure to use the proper tools. If you’re spray painting, make sure you have the appropriate spray painter so your metal cladding is as beautiful as you want it to be. You may also look for the most acceptable kinds of paint and choose the one that best suits your requirements. If you run into problems when painting, keep in mind that you can always hire a professional to finish the work for you.

How to Complete Your Painting Project Correctly

Keeping track of the paint colours you use on a project

After a while, do you have trouble remembering if you used snow-white or shell white, sky-blue or darker one, in the project you completed? Silky or glossy, which was it? Here are some quick suggestions for writing down these facts about metal cladding paint so you won’t forget them later.

It may seem that the work is over the moment you clean your brushes and roll up and move to the next one or relax. Wait for a moment, at least.

Whether you’re painting a more extensive installation or many smaller ones at once or gradually adding colour, you’ll need a method to keep track of your selections, finishes, and details so you can quickly touch up scuffs or repaint later.

If that weren’t enough, keeping track of your project palette may help you finish touches for the space when you’re out shopping. The technique you choose to keep track of paint depends on your organizational style, but there are several alternatives that need little time or money to apply.

Here are some thoughts to get you started.

Keep your paint manufacturer’s little colour sample jars in a cool, dry place for future reference. If they don’t have a colour sticker with their name on it, write it on the label.
Save the used stir stick that has previously been painted. Once dry, write the brand, finish, colour name, and any other important information.
Don’t forget to bring your colour cards. Paint a tiny sample into a notebook with your notes and keep it handy to use as a future reference.
Spending a few additional minutes to record your colour choices, regardless of your technique, is well worth it.

The Concluding Word

Painting metal cladding is a straightforward way to prolong its lifetime by up to a decade by resisting corrosion, water, and UV radiation. Painting metal cladding is a lot less expensive than replacing or repairing unprotected cladding.

Metal cladding paints are available in a range of hues. They may be tinted to a variety of colours, allowing you to work with any colour scheme to give the metal cladding an excellent aesthetic appearance.

Metal Cladding – Total Roofing & Cladding

Colorbond Cladding vs. Vinyl Siding: Which Is Better?

Colorbond Cladding vs. Vinyl Siding: Which Is Better?

Lance Mathews

In This Article

Understanding Colorbond Cladding

Defining Colorbond Cladding and Its Key Characteristics

Definition:

Characteristics:

The Advantages of Opting for Colorbond Cladding

Exceptional Durability

Color Options and Aesthetically Pleasing Choices

Minimal Maintenance Requirements

Potential Considerations When Choosing Colorbond Cladding

Cost Factors

Complexity of Installation

Exploring Vinyl Siding

Defining Vinyl Siding and Its Key Characteristics

Definition:

Characteristics:

The Advantages of Opting for Vinyl Siding

Affordability

Ease of Installation

Variety of Styles and Colors

Potential Drawbacks of Vinyl Siding

Durability Concerns

Maintenance Requirements

Comparing Colorbond Cladding and Vinyl Siding

Longevity and durability

Maintenance Requirements

Aesthetics and Customization Options

Cost Analysis (Initial and Long-term)

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

Metal Cladding: What Are They Used For?

Metal Cladding: What Are They Used For?

Lance Mathews

In This Article

What is Metal Cladding?

Different Types of Metal Cladding

Aluminum

Zinc

Steel

Copper

Pros and Cons of Metal Cladding

Durable

Range of Designs

Sustainable

Simple Installation

Low Maintenance

Energy Efficiency

Rusting

Chalking and Fading

Vulnerable to Dents

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

Metal Wall Cladding vs. Concrete Wall Cladding – Which is a Better Option?

Metal wall cladding vs concrete wall cladding - Everything you need to know

Lance Mathews

In This Article

What is a metal wall cladding?

Materials Commonly used for Metal Wall Cladding:

The Pros and Cons of Using a Metal Wall Cladding

Versatility

Durability

Fire resistance

Easy to Install

Sustainable

Wide Selection of Styles and Designs

Rusting

Noise

Chalking and Fading

Delamination

What is a concrete wall cladding?

The Pros and Cons of Using a Concrete Wall Cladding

Cost-effective

Low-maintenance

Rapid construction schemes

Waste reduction and material efficiency