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When building and developing properties, such as high rise buildings, construction companies and developers must pay attention to critical details such as durability and aesthetics. To do this, many make use of cladding. And for this, many use various materials, including metals.

But what is cladding? Why do they use it on buildings and properties? What are the different metals for cladding? And what other materials can be used for such purposes?

What is Cladding?

Cladding, also referred to as siding or weatherboarding, is the application of various materials on exterior walls that acts as protective layer, skin, or armour. It does not add load to the walls of the structures. Instead, many systems use frames, metal brackets, and support rails. These systems are often present in high rise buildings, but they are also beneficial for residential properties.

But what purpose do siding serve? Why do construction companies, designers, and property developers use it?

Why Developers and Designers Use Cladding?

Cladding is an essential feature of infrastructures, proving various benefits for buildings. One of its primary uses is to give properties extra protection from the weather. It shields exterior walls of infrastructures from rain, snow, and strong winds. Without it, the walls of a building
won’t last as long due to the moisture and weather damage.

Another vital function of siding is providing insulation for the whole building. It has a gap of air that acts as a barrier between it and the building, regulating indoor temperature and humidity. Not only does it provide thermal insulation, but it also gives noise reduction, which
is essential for both residential and commercial buildings.

Aside from functionality, designers also use cladding for aesthetic reasons. Different materials can create varying visual effects, which can enhance a building’s exterior appearance. Some of the most beautiful buildings use it to their advantage.

Naturally, you can also install cladding in your homes. You will benefit as much as high rise does. But what metals do buildings use for siding?

Different Metals for Cladding?

Many high rise developers use metals as their choice of cladding materials. However, there are different types of metal, with each having its very own benefits and drawbacks. How developers and designers choose what to use will depend on many criteria, such as aesthetics, functionality, and budget. Here are some of the best and most popular choices for high-rise buildings

Aluminium – Aluminium-based is one of the least bulky and most versatile metals for siding. Despite being lightweight, it has excellent water-resistance, low-maintenance and long life span, making it a prefered material for high-rise buildings. However, compared to other metals, it is often most prone to dents, scratches, and corrosion.

Galvanized Steel – Galvanized steel is a material made by coating steel with zinc. It’s resistant to moisture, rust, and degradation. However, it’s prone to saltwater. In general, it’s easier to work with compared to other types of steels. It’s also relatively cheaper than other structural steels, making it one of the most affordable options for metal cladding.

Stainless Steel – Another popular option for property developers is stainless steel. Unlike Galvanized Steel, stainless steel uses chromium instead of zinc. The chromium is mixed with melted steel to produce stainless steel. Like aluminium, it’s resistant to moisture and rust, making it an excellent weatherboarding material. It also has better resistance to saltwater, compared to zinc-coated metals. When it comes to appearance, it features a polished, glossy finish. However, it tends to be a few times more expensive than any structural steel.

Weathering Steel – Corten steel, also known as COR-TEN steel, is a group of steel alloys, often made out of chromium and copper. Weathering steels have high resistance to weather and corrosion. What makes it unique is its composition, which can create and regenerate oxide film that protects it from pollutants in the air, also known as patina. However, most weathering steels develop a corrosion-like patina over time when not maintained properly.

Zinc – Zinc is a soft, malleable, and versatile metal perfect for siding. As previously mentioned, zinc is resistant to moisture, which is why it is often used in conjunction or mixed with other metals. It also has a protective bluish patine, which forms when exposed to outdoor elements.

Copper – Another weather-resistant material perfect for siding is copper. It’s durable, lightweight, corrosion-resistant and 100% reusable, being one of the most cost-efficient materials. Like zinc, it develops a protective patina, usually of a greenish tint.

Other Cladding Materials

Aside from metals, there are several more options for siding systems. Wood, PVC, bricks, and composite cladding are some of the most popular choices available. These are more commonly used in private properties than high-rise buildings.

There are other non-metal siding materials that high rise builders use. However, since the 2017 tragic fire incident in Grenfell Tower in the UK, many government institutions have revised building standards when it comes to cladding systems. According to investigations, aluminium composite materials with polyethene cores contributed to the fast spread of the fire. Because of this, builders are required to use non-combustible materials and pressured existing buildings to conform to the new standards.

For this reason, many avoid combustible wood and plastic materials. Instead, many builders use reconstituted timber, stone bricks, and composite cladding, which has better fire-resistance. If you plan to add siding, whether it’s for your home or a construction project, you
will want to follow guidelines. It’s best to use not only water-proof materials but ones with excellent fire resistance as well.

Emily

Hi there! I am Emily Evert, the owner of Emily Reviews. I am 28 and live in a small town in Michigan with my boyfriend Ryan and our two pugs. I have a large family and I adore my nieces and nephews. I love reading memoirs, and learning about child development and psychology. I love watching The Game of Thrones, Teen Mom, Sister Wives and Veep. I like listening to Jason Isbell, John Prine, and other alt-country or Americana music. I created Emily Reviews as a creative outlet to share my life and the products that I love with others.

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