Metal Cladding

We sell a wide range of metal cladding sheets of varying finishes, thicknesses and colours. Explore our full range of corrugated roof sheets below. We recommend using 0.5mm thickness for wall cladding, and 0.7mm for roofing.

Introduction to Metal Cladding

Metal cladding, a material that has long been used by UK homeowners, architects and developers alike, involves enveloping one material with another for aesthetics and protection. While the practice traces back centuries, contemporary metal cladding offers an attractive fusion of tradition with limitless design possibilities.

The Evolution of Metal Cladding

Historically, cladding was used for fortification. As architectural tastes evolved, so did the uses of metal cladding.

Today, it's lauded not just for its protective attributes but also for its aesthetic versatility, transforming ordinary structures into visual masterpieces.

Types of Metal Used in Cladding

Different metals offer varied aesthetics and benefits:

• Aluminum Cladding: Known for its lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties, aluminum offers a sleek, modern appearance.
• Steel Cladding: Robust and durable, steel cladding provides an industrial aesthetic and is often chosen for its strength.
• Copper Cladding: Aging gracefully, copper develops a beautiful patina over time, adding character to a building.
• Zinc Cladding: Zinc is hailed for its self-healing properties, offering a blend of tradition and modernity.

Benefits of Using Metal Cladding

• Durability and Longevity: Metal cladding stands robust against environmental factors, ensuring buildings retain their aesthetics for decades.
• Aesthetics and Versatility: From matte finishes to gleaming exteriors, the design possibilities are endless.
• Maintenance and Upkeep: With minimal maintenance requirements, metal cladding remains pristine with occasional cleaning.
• Energy Efficiency and Sustainability: Acting as a thermal insulator, metal cladding aids in energy conservation, reducing carbon footprints.
• Fire Resistance: Non-combustible by nature, metal structures offer added safety against fire hazards.

The Aesthetic Appeal of Metal Cladding

Incorporating metal cladding can transform an edifice's visual appeal. Whether it's the shimmering facade of a skyscraper or the subtle elegance of a residential abode, metal cladding offers endless design versatility.

Wide Range of Applications

• Residential Buildings: More homeowners are opting for metal cladding for its blend of modernity and traditional aesthetics.
• Commercial Structures: From corporate offices to retail outlets, metal cladding enhances the architectural finesse of commercial spaces.
• Industrial Edifices: In industrial settings, metal cladding provides both functionality and a sophisticated appearance.

Installation Techniques and Considerations

Different installation techniques cater to various architectural needs:

• Panel Systems: Prefabricated panels offer quick installation and a seamless appearance.
• Interlocking Systems: These provide a more textured, patterned facade.
• Standing Seam Systems: Popular for roofs, they offer a distinctive ridged appearance. Our sister compnay, The Metal Roof Company, offers GreenCoat PLX as a cost effective standing seam roofing material.

Tips: Place metal cladding panels on exterior walls using a set of battens aligned with the direction of the panel's profile.

Positioning panels with a vertical profile enhances water drainage and minimises debris accumulation.

The appropriate fixing method varies based on the batten and profile choice. For instance, for attaching corrugated roof panels to wooden battens, 65mm screws with BAZ washers are suggested.

It's advisable to place battens at intervals not exceeding 1 metre. This ensures consistent support for the panel, preventing it from sagging or distorting.

We offer all essential fittings and add-ons for your cladding endeavor, including finishing elements like corner barge flashings. Additionally, we can produce tailor-made custom flashings for unique requirements. Please email us for more details: info@tradewarehouse.co.uk.

For detailed guidance on attaching panels, consult our support & guidance section.

Challenges

The architectural world has widely embraced metal cladding for its myriad of benefits. However, like any material, it comes with its own set of challenges.

Corrosion: One of the primary concerns with metal, especially steel, is its vulnerability to corrosion. When metal reacts with moisture and oxygen in the environment, it can lead to rust, which not only affects the aesthetic appeal but also weakens the structural integrity of the cladding. Installing in coastal areas, such as Cornwall and part of Scotland, can accelerate this process.

Thermal Expansion: Metals tend to expand and contract based on temperature variations. This phenomenon, known as thermal expansion, can cause the cladding panels to warp or buckle. If not accounted for during the design and installation process, it can lead to gaps, misalignment, or even structural damage over time.

Acoustic Considerations: Metal surfaces can sometimes amplify external noises, creating an acoustic challenge, especially in areas with significant ambient noise.

Aesthetic Aging: While some metals like copper are sought after for their aging patina, not all aging processes are aesthetically pleasing. Metals can sometimes stain or discolor due to environmental factors, leading to an uneven appearance.

Mitigating the Challenges: The good news is that the challenges posed by metal cladding are not insurmountable. With the advancement of technology, there have been significant strides in addressing these issues.

Protective Coatings: Modern protective coatings, such as galvanizing or powder coating, have been developed to shield the metal from moisture and oxygen, thus preventing corrosion. These coatings can also offer UV protection, further enhancing the lifespan of the cladding.

Design Techniques: Taking thermal expansion into account during the design phase can ensure that adequate gaps and allowances are made for the metal to expand and contract without causing damage.

Acoustic Insulation: Acoustic insulating materials can be installed behind the metal cladding to dampen and absorb external noises, creating a quieter interior environment.

Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance and inspection can help detect and rectify potential issues before they escalate. Cleaning the metal surfaces, checking for signs of wear or damage, and reapplying protective coatings when needed can significantly extend the life of metal cladding.

Innovations in Metal Cladding

The world of metal cladding is ever-evolving. New alloys, finishes, and techniques continue to emerge, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in architectural design.

Conclusion: The Future of Metal Cladding

As sustainable architecture becomes the norm, the role of metal cladding is set to grow. Its blend of functionality with aesthetic appeal ensures that metal cladding will remain at the forefront of architectural innovations for years to come.