Aluminum siding is one of the most common forms of sidings and is generally used as an exterior cladding material. Modern aluminum siding is made from aluminum coil stock, which is coated with chemical substances to protect the base metal and then painted for protection increment and aesthetic purposes. These products need to be baked for durability and this often involves adding glaze for creating unique textures.
A Brief History of Aluminum Siding Manufacturing
Aluminum siding creation goes back to the 1920s and one of the earliest architectural purposes of this material was to develop ornamental spandrel panels for huge commercial buildings. As time went on, architects start to utilize these sidings for residential structures. By the 1940s, these cladding materials quickly became very popular due to the advantages and benefits they provided. They dominated almost all of the cladding materials in use at the time. The first housing project which took place in 1947 and the aluminum siding was its cladding product, was a Pennsylvania subdivision.
Aluminum siding remained very trendy and popular until 1970 when the energy crisis occurred. At that time, producing this type of cladding required a great deal of energy and a huge amount of raw materials. These factors affected the usage of aluminum siding in a negative way. However, along with technology growth, the manufacturing system of this type of siding has also improved. Thus, it gained its position among the other practical exterior sidings over time.
Why Choosing Aluminum as a Siding Material
Aluminum is one of the most common materials on our planet and it is considered to have easier extraction procedures in comparison to other metal elements. Aluminum is an insect-proof, dent-resistant material, in addition, it is not flammable thus it can be a secure substance for the building construction process. Metal panels that are created with modern technologies often do not require frequent maintenance and an irregular simple washing process is all they need.
Aluminum metal is a soft element, which means the thickness of the produced siding can make an extreme difference for the cladding. The standard thickness gauge for this type of siding is 44 and the best products, which are more expensive than the regular ones, are developed in the gauge of 53. However, they are cheaper products available in the market that have 0.4 inches or 40-gauge thicknesses.
They are different paint finishes for aluminum sidings that are applied in a variety of colors at the factory. Customers can order the type of long-lasting finishes equivalent to their taste and needs. Most of these colors offer 15 to 25 years of service without fading or chalking. The product can last more than 50 years if it is maintained properly and kept clean with the minimum amount of impact. Aluminum can be molded and stamped with other common patterns such as wood grain. Many architects and designers often create exterior designs that are a combination of aluminum siding and other materials such as stone, glass, and masonry to provide a unique and aesthetic appearance.
It is essential to have in mind that there are other modern metal cladding systems that are way better than aluminum siding which are called ACM panels or aluminum composite materials.
Advantages of Aluminum Sidings for Houses
There are many factors to consider when it comes to choosing the best type of siding for renovation or new construction projects. The most common factors include durability, price, standards, sound insulation, maintenance, etc. Depending on the location of the facility, aluminum can bring many advantages to it. Followings are some of the most important advantages of Aluminum sidings that can be beneficial for company owners or homeowners.
Durability
One of the most important factors for designing any product for a facility is its durability. A durable aluminum siding can last for more than 40 years. Most of these products are manufactured from coil stock materials, which are generally created from old recycled products. Aluminum sidings are coated with chemicals to increase their corrosion-resistant characteristics. The final color is baked on the top layer while having different textures that customers choose. These products do not crack with age and are considered sturdy.
Design Flexibility
Unlike other siding materials, aluminum comes with a number of different textures and patterns such as wood patterns, which allows architects to develop unique looks for the buildings. Many people think that sidings only come in horizontal planks. However, aluminum sidings are available in both vertical and horizontal panels. This also increases the flexibility of the design for different purposes.
Cost-Effective
Sidings that are made from aluminum are considered the cheapest products available for exterior cladding. It is generally 80% cheaper than other types of sidings. The installation process is also very simple, thus, it will help the homeowner on saving money on the cost of labor.
Low Maintenance
The only cleaning procedure the aluminum siding needs is simple water rinsing once a year. This is done to make sure there is no debris stuck in windowsills or seams. Repainting the product is only needed when it becomes faded.
Insulation and Energy Efficiency
Aluminum sidings are considered energy-saving claddings for heat and are also perfect for sound insulation purposes. Products that are created in heavier gauges will work better in comparison to thin ones.
Recyclability and Environmentally Friendly
This type of siding is a GREEN product, which means it is 100% recyclable thus it will never need to go to landfills.
Water Proof and Corrosion Resistant
Aluminum is a perfect material for those who want to build their homes in coastal areas with high humidity levels. The product does not absorb humidity and it is expected not to rust. Even if there is a small amount of humidity in the product, it will dry out in the heat.
Insect-Proof
Aluminum does not contain any natural and organic material in its structure. This specification makes the product immune to rot and insects. This ability has made this type of siding the most popular choice in areas with a high level of termite presence.
Fire-Resistant
This type of siding has the ability of not being melted or burnt and due to its non-flammable ability, it is preferable for areas that have frequent brush fires.
No comment yet, add your voice below!