It is safe to say that metals are a large and inseparable part of materials in architecture and construction. Because metals are strong, flexible, and resistant to abrasion and corrosion, they are the first choice to choose as metal cladding for building facades. Metals can be used to design and build any building in any shape and model and any area with different climates. Canada is a continent with different countries, each with its style of architecture and tourist attractions. In fact, most of the Canadian cities are developing countries that are trying hard to move towards modernity and build buildings with beautiful and up-to-date facades. On the other hand, the same developing countries are trying to develop their industry and therefore use new and modern industries to design and build buildings. One of these industries is fabricating metal cladding for building facades.
Brief Information About Metal Cladding Systems
Metal cladding systems are actually used as protection systems for another metal, composite, or building. In this article, we are going to discuss the use of metal cladding to create façades in structures and buildings and also to protect them. These claddings are mainly made of light and corrosion-resistant metals (metals that have less reaction with environmental factors) such as aluminum, copper, stainless steel, galvanized steel, and so forth. Because metals are highly impact resistant and do not break easily, they are a proper choice for cladding of buildings’ facades in places where objects may hit the building, such as busy streets.
Types of Metal Used to Fabricate Cladding Systems
Four types of metal are mainly used to make metal cladding; Which are briefly explained:
Steel
Among the four metals mentioned above, steel is the heaviest and the cheapest metal. To prepare this type of coating and in order to prevent rust and corrosion, steel is often placed in a polymer coating (such as polyester or plastisol).
Aluminum
Because aluminum is a lightweight metal and at the same time it is very strong and resistant to abrasive factors, it has many applications for building façades in areas with wet, dry, and sunny weather, and so forth. In addition, the flexibility of this metal has made it a popular material in the fabrication of cladding systems.
Zinc
In areas with high humidity and the possibility of rust, zinc is the best choice for the cladding systems. This metal is resistant to rust and generally has high durability. Other properties of zinc include recyclability and “self-healing” properties. In this way, minor scratches and abrasions are eliminated by exposure to air.
Copper
Copper has long been used as a building material. It is a precious metal because of its natural resistance to corrosion and beautiful discoloration due to oxidation over time. When the outer layer of copper reacts with air completely, a phenomenon called “patina” occurs that remains for decades to come.
Advantage of Metal Cladding Systems
In fact, one of the advantages of metal cladding is the increased mechanical strength of the building, while protecting the exterior of the building from corrosive elements. Buildings that are coated with a variety of metals are more resistant to cracks due to temperature and climate change, moisture absorption, sunlight, and other pollutants than types that are not coated. Another advantage of metal cladding is that it can be used for the façade of curved buildings, and this is due to the excellent flexibility of these claddings. Metals can be subjected to various modalities, which is why they are so popular as building materials.
In short, if you are looking to build a resistant, strong, beautiful, and durable building, choosing a metal cladding for the façade is highly recommended. As mentioned, metals, in addition to resistance, create lasting beauty in the appearance of your building. In addition, the high resistance of metals helps reduce further costs, including the cost of building maintenance. So, make your decision as soon as possible and choose the type of metal coating you want.