Various materials are available for constructing a modern building. One of the essential components of every facility is its cladding material. Wood sidings have been in the building industry for a long time as they are beautiful and provide a warm feel. However, it is not a preferred option currently due to its various drawbacks. Although it has its unique advantages, including easy installation, cost-effectiveness, and availability, metal wall cladding systems are the better options these days.
Disadvantages of Wood Siding
The drawbacks of wood siding that make it less suitable for the current building industry are many. The most significant disadvantage of this traditional cladding system is that it offers no insulation. Additionally, today’s buildings’ facades require low maintenance and provide appropriate structural stability. With this said, it is essential to know that traditional wood sidings are prone to damage and require frequent repairing, maintenance, and weather-stripping. Here is the list of disadvantages and drawbacks that you should consider when choosing wood siding for your next project:
- Color Fading
- Chipping, Cracking and Peeling
- Moisture Damage
- Mold and Mildew Buildup
- Insect Damage
- High Flammability
- High Maintenance Requirements
Color and paint finish fading is one of the most common issues of wood siding that metal cladding systems do not have. Color fading is a natural event that occurs over time due to sun exposure. However, it will affect the beauty of the building’s facade and makes it less appealing. Additionally, sun exposure can pose another issue for wood material, including chipping, peeling, and cracking. Moreover, when moisture remains after heavy rains and snow, it can take a toll on wood sidings. This particular damage generally shows up as rotten and warped panels, affecting both the structural capacity and aesthetic quality.
Wood building materials are naturally susceptible to insect damages. Ants, wasps, and termites can cause a significant amount of problems to wood sidings and eventually destroy the uprightness of the cladding material. The high flammability of wood sidings also causes concern for homeowners who want to have traditional cladding systems. Although building material suppliers utilize fire-resistant coating for wood materials, these cladding systems remain more flammable than alternate siding options. Since wood siding cladding systems are relatively vulnerable building materials, they can be considered high-maintenance components of a facility. Whether various factors cause damages, homeowners must expect to commit a lot of money and time in keeping their siding looking and functioning at its best.
Metal Cladding Systems Alternate to Wood
Like traditional building wall systems, metal cladding materials are used to protect the exteriors of a building. Not only do they protect the building, but they also allow architects to create modern aesthetic construction. Here are the most popular metal cladding systems that the building industry appreciates:
- ACM Panels (Aluminum Composite Panels)
- Aluminum Siding Cladding
- Longboard
- Stainless Steel Siding
- Galvanized Steel Cladding
- Copper Cladding Systems
Aluminum Composite Panels are the most used building cladding materials that are used in industrial cities. These products are made from two aluminum plate systems attached to an FR (fire-retardant) core substance. ACM panels are durable, lightweight, and beautiful materials that come with various finishes. The installation process of ACP is relatively easy and can save a considerable amount of time and money. Aluminum siding cladding systems are also practical metal cladding materials that have been in the building industry for a long time. However, aluminum composite panels are more suitable for the modern building industry. It is essential to know that aluminum cladding can last longer than 30 years, making it a perfect investment. Unlike wood siding, aluminum does not rot or rust when exposed to moisture and does not lose its color due to sun exposure.
Stainless steel is also durable metal cladding material that does not corrode easily, and neither does it stain like wood sidings. It is easy to be polished to a satin or mirror finish in case of having finish problems. The galvanized steel made of alloyed steel coated with zinc features better durability than standard steel cladding systems. However, it is not inexpensive, but it will last more than 60 years.
Copper is the longest-lasting metal cladding material that is available in the building industry. It generates a beautiful rustic layer that architects utilize to create beautiful building facades. The developed layer also provides protection and insulation against rainwater.
