Aluminum-coated exterior façade systems are excellent for use on buildings for multiple purposes. Façade systems are used for a variety of reasons including sun control, heat control, and building ventilation. The other industrial coating operations include stainless steel, brass, zinc, and copper. However, aluminum facades are more popular due to their versatility.
Benefits of Choosing Aluminum Exterior Façade
There are many material properties of aluminum that give it an edge over other options. Some of the most notable ones are discussed below.
Strong, Durable & Stylish
The process of making these finishes provide additional strength and durability to the building’s exterior. The industrial coating forms a layer that protects the metal against abrasion and corrosion over the long term. Besides, there is a self-healing property. If it gets damaged, a protective oxide layer is formed at the site.
Another advantage is the excellent color consistency offered. When it comes to aesthetics, you can achieve looks matching almost any other metal. Thus, you can have an exterior façade that looks like:
- Brass
- Bronze
- Stainless steel
- Copper
- Silver
- Gold
- Carbon steel
- Zinc
- Titanium
However, the coating will not tarnish like the metal it is supposed to look like. For example, brass can get tarnished, bronze can fade, and copper can develop a patina. Thus, you can achieve stable metal looks when exposed to the elements.
More Cost-Effective
Aluminum is much lighter and has a very high strength-to-weight ratio. This means that it costs 60% to 70% less per square foot compared to other metals. Additionally, you will experience greater cost savings for the structural support required for the project. The structure will not have to support a lot of weight, as with steel or copper.
Easier Installation
Another advantage of choosing aluminum is the ease of installation that it offers. Handling and installing the material is easier, as it is lightweight. In fact, some panels can also be installed using normal hand tools and without the use of a crane.
Aluminum is also an excellent heat conductor. This makes it an excellent choice for dissipating heat. When used for frames for glass panels, there is a need for expansion joins for compensating thermal expansion. Thus, aluminum is widely used for its functional, cost-effective, and aesthetic benefits. Most of the material is pre-coated in coil before the panels are manufactured. This helps create a more durable, protective layer over the underlying material. This provides additional protection against the environment.
Additional Benefits
There are many more advantages that work in the favor of such exterior façades. This includes:
- Resistance to the Elements: The oxide coating protects the metal against corrosion and weather. Aluminum can last for decades.
- Flexibility: Aluminum is known for being a flexible metal. It can be readily bent and allows the creation of customized facade systems.
- Eco-Friendly: Aluminum is one of the most easily recyclable metals. It can be recycled without losing its quality. Besides, it consumes less energy for the recycling process.
Architects increasingly prefer aluminum for different types of buildings. It offers almost unmatched design flexibility and price advantage. The lower weight of the material also helps in controlling and containing the overall cost of the structure. It also offers a lot of flexibility in terms of the coating.
Thus, this material can be used for different types of architectural and construction purposes. Besides building facades, it is also valued for its benefits in roofing, curtain walls, and column wraps. Whichever application it is used for, it stands out for its benefits to both the installers and the owners. Aluminum provides you with the right balance between aesthetics, durability, and cost.
