Metal Cladding

What is Cladding?

  • Generic term for any type of wall covering for both exterior and interior
  • Can be made from stone, wood, metal, vinyl etc
  • Popularized in 1970s, mostly used for combination of high structural rigidity and low weight
  • We mainly work with Metallic Composite Material/Panels (MCM/MCP) and Aluminum Composite Material/Panels (ACM/ACP), also solid Aluminum, Steel, Stainless Steel, etc.
  • Nowadays for aesthetics more so than structural support

MCM/ACM Cladding Composition

  • Two coil-coated aluminum sheets bonded to a non-aluminum core
  • Core component is made from polyethylene (a common type of industrial plastic)
  • Polyethylene is not fire resistant by nature, but it can be mixed with 70% mineral to make it fire resistant

  • Folding corner finishes are different from regular metallic cladding
  • Technical term called grooving, with CNC machine the tip of the blade will create a v shape groove for any folds
  • Only one of the two metal sheets will be cut along side with the core in order to create this groove

Why MCM/ACM Cladding?

  • MCM is one of the most versatile architectural materials
  • ACM offers the rigidity of heavier substrate and is also extremely versatile due to its lightweight
  • Sharper corner through V groove method (preferred by many clients)
  • Butt joints provide a more professional look
  • Is environmentally friendly and easier to maintain (more than 60% of the surface metal sheets are recyclable)
  • Consistent pre-painted stock colors (ex: over 100 styles from ALPOLIC)
  • Durable aluminum coating and PE core do not deteriorate with temperatures
  • Long-lasting 30-40 years in extreme weather conditions
  • Requires low maintenance cost and required attention (even in Canada’s volatile winter conditions)
  • More affordable than traditional metals
  • One of the best alternatives to help protect and decorate your storefront; to add that one extra silver lining to your very own brand

Cladding Product and Supplier

  • Typically from ALPOLIC, one of the largest ACM suppliers in the world with over 100 stocked styles: Reynobond, Alupanel, Alucobond, Alucobest, Alfrex, and more.
  • 3MM or 4MM in THK, 5' x 16', 4' x 8', 5' x 10' in size.
  • Orders may be processed with custom colours and sizes
  • Composite panels can also be coated outside of aluminum.
  • Metal is protected through anodizing, galvanizing or powder coating.

ACM Cladding Preparation

  • The scope of work is assessed with our Estimation & Structural Departments and initial meetings may occur when necessary
  • This process is efficiently flexible to produce quick turn arounds