The resurgence of cladding in today’s commercial and residential properties is a result of improving not only the aesthetic of the exterior, but also by improving the structural integrity of the building, suitable for modern living. Cladding happens when a material is applied to an existing external structure to serve as a “shield” against external elements which may directly affect the longevity of the building.
The main function of a cladding is to ensure that the building is performing within its functional limits. To make this happen, the cladding material should be capable of withstanding various weather conditions like sunlight, rain, strong winds, storms, humidity, and even pollution. Certain cladding materials can also provide thermal insulation to the interior which prevent excessive temperature changes to the interior. It should also suit the building’s aesthetic while also needing little to no maintenance at all. The mentioned requirements may also be the reason for the improvement of multiple materials used in exterior claddings. The list below shows some of the exterior materials, which you may find useful in your future projects.
- Wood- Aside from its biophilic advantages, wood cladding can provide durability and a sense of groundness. It is particularly known for blending into any design. However, maintenance and upkeep can be costly and time consuming. It is also prone to termites and rotting.
- Stone- Stone cladding is a classic way to give elegance, roughness, and sturdiness to your exterior. It is known for its durability, which enables it to last for a long time. It is also weather resistant and serves as protection against weather disturbances. One downside is, it can be costly and expensive. It can also weigh down the original structure if there are not enough fixtures to hold it well.
- Vinyl- Vinyl cladding provides insulation, water and sound resistance. It is an engineered product made of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) that is inexpensive, lightweight and easy to install. It is not susceptible to termites, water and insects and protects the structure from environmental impacts. Certain issues arising in this material are its sustainability issues and fire resistant properties.
- Fiber Cement- It is commonly used in residential buildings and is widely sold and used in the Philippines. This material is known for its durability and efficiency, with proper installation and maintenance. It is water resistant, so it prevents the structure from rotting, warping, or cracking. The most important feature is, it is non-combustible even when exposed to direct flame or extreme heat.
- Aluminum Composite Panels (ACP)- ACP, or sandwich panels, is commonly used in commercial buildings because it is able to withstand strong winds and direct sunlight. It is a versatile material that can also be used as partitions, false ceilings, and signages, aside from exterior wall cladding. It needs little maintenance, but aluminum composite installation should be done by professionals, to prevent improper usage of the material.
Cladding is an imperative part of commercial and domestic buildings by improving the appearance of the exterior while simultaneously protecting the structure against potentially harmful elements. By knowing your options and being informed of the pros and cons of each material, you are able to have an informed choice regarding the material that is specifically suited for your application. If you have any questions regarding acp cladding or aluminum cladding installation, contact one of the aluminum composite panel suppliers in the Philippines.