Cladding made with aluminium is popular among house owners in Melbourne. Many people are leaning towards aluminium cladding because of the sleek finish, durable features and lightweight properties.
In particular, solid aluminium cladding is a main preference material for architects, builders and house owners. It’s a contemporary material that is best suited to both commercial and modern buildings.
Despite the many advantages of this cladding, there are a few problems that arise in the prolonged run of usage. Being aware of those issues will help you avoid them so that you can enjoy their good features for a longer time.
Here, you can see the common problems of solid cladding and the solutions to avoid them:
- Expansion and contraction due to temperature differences
Aluminium is one of the materials that shows contraction and extraction properties due to heat changes. So, if you are living in a place where there are extreme weather conditions, then you can see the cladding warping, bending and cracking in the structure. It will further lead to problems such as gaps, loosening of panels and affecting the overall aesthetics and functionality.
You can avoid this problem by ensuring proper space for the aluminium to contract and expand. It will let the material to breath and adjust to the temperature outside. You can also make use of high-quality fasteners and flexible sealants to accommodate these movements.
Also, make sure to contact a professional and reputable cladding manufacturer to provide testing and certifications that are designed for your climate. Always understand the best cladding materials for your home before you go for installation.
- Corrosion and oxidation
Though aluminium doesn’t rust, the same can’t be said about corrosion and oxidation. It happens when the material is exposed to moisture and certain chemicals. If you are living in coastal areas and humid places where the air is laden with salt, then you can see aluminium corroding, leading to deterioration over time.
You can avoid this issue by powder coating or using anodised aluminium cladding. It offers excellent protection against corrosion.
You also have to make sure to clean the panels regularly to prevent dirt and other contaminants from accumulating on them and avoid long-term damage. Also, opt for using corrosion-resistant fasteners and accessories to prolong the cladding’s life.
- Improper installation or poor-quality materials
When aluminium panels are not installed properly, it can cause premature failure of cladding. Poor installation paves the way for many issues like water infiltration, loose cladding and an overall defective appearance.
You can avoid this issue by hiring experienced and reputable installers who have an excellent track record in cladding installation. You can also follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations during the installation process. If you are concerned with the installation process, you can conduct a thorough post-installation inspection to ensure the cladding is secure and aligned.
- Water retention and moisture build-up
Always ensure aluminium panels are properly sealed. Otherwise, water can infiltrate through joints and seams, which further leads to moisture-buildup and structural damage. It can cause structural damage and mould growth and make the whole appearance unsightly. Water ingress becomes a serious issue if you live in humid places or coastal areas.
You can avoid this issue by ensuring the cladding system has proper drainage channels to direct water away from the building. Always use high-quality weatherproof sealants and flashing systems. You can also perform routine inspections if you have had a heavy rainfall at your place.
- Colour fading or discolouration
When you live in a harsh weather condition, cladding panels tend to fade or discolour due to sunlight and pollution. It can greatly affect the aesthetic appeal of the building.
To avoid discolouration, always opt for UV-resistant coatings or powder coatings for aluminium panels. Always clean the cladding regularly to prevent dirt and grime accumulation on the surface. You can also ensure that the cladding materials have a warranty against colour fading.
- Fire safety issues
Although aluminium is non-combustible, the installation process may pose a fire hazard if the material is not properly selected.
So, always choose cladding systems that meet the standard fire safety rules. Avoid using combustible insulation materials and adhesives during the installation process. always ensure the installation team is following all the fire safety protocols while installing aluminium panels.
- High initial investment
Compared to other cladding materials like vinyl or fibre cement, solid cladding is more expensive. It leads to bearing a higher initial cost, which often makes homeowners go towards other cladding options.
You can reconsider this thinking by considering the long-term benefits of aluminium cladding like low maintenance, durability and enhanced property value. You can also work with suppliers who offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality. Always play your budget accordingly, considering the lifespan and performance of solid cladding.
Final thoughts
Solid cladding is an excellent choice for modern buildings; however, by understanding the common problems you might face, you can always take proper steps to prevent them in future. Working with professional cladding contractors in Melbourne for installation will help you enjoy the installation process and the aftermath.