What Is Aluzinc Cladding?
Aluzinc is a type of steel sheet coated with aluminum and zinc, used for various applications including roofing, cladding, and building structures and Aluzinc cladding refers to the use of Aluzinc sheets as a covering material on the exterior of buildings to provide protection against the elements, improve appearance, and increase energy efficiency.
Aluzinc is composed of a steel sheet coated with a mixture of aluminum (43.4%) and zinc (55%) with trace amounts of other elements including silicon (1.6%) and titanium (0.2%). The exact chemical composition of Aluzinc varies slightly depending on the manufacturer, specific product and end-use case.
What are the Benefits of Aluzinc Cladding?
The benefits of Aluzinc cladding include:- Durability and resistance to corrosion
- Low maintenance
- Fire resistance
- Energy efficiency
- Aesthetic appeal
- Versatility in design and application.
What Are the Common Forms of Aluzinc Cladding?
Roll-formed sheets
Aluzinc cladding is often made in the form of roll-formed sheets that can be cut to size and installed on buildings. These sheets can be produced in different shapes, sizes and colors to suit various design requirements.
Composite panels
Aluzinc cladding can also be used to make composite panels, which are pre-fabricated panels consisting of a core material (such as polystyrene or polyurethane) sandwiched between two Aluzinc sheets. These panels offer improved insulation and stability.
Profiled sheets
Aluzinc cladding can also be made in the form of profiled sheets that have specific shapes, such as corrugated or sinusoidal, to allow for drainage and improved wind resistance. Aluzinc cladding can also be formed into custom shapes and profiles to suit specific design requirements.
What is the Difference Between Aluzinc Pipe Cladding and Other Pipe Cladding Materials?
Aluzinc cladding differs from other forms of cladding, such as:-
Aluminum Cladding
Unlike Aluzinc cladding, aluminum pipe cladding has no added layer of zinc, making it less resistant to corrosion. Aluzinc cladding is a better choice for harsh or coastal environments. And with the high moisture content in most the UK, Aluzinc Cladding has a significant advantage over its closest rival. -
Stainless Steel Cladding
While stainless steel pipe cladding offers good resistance to corrosion and other benefits, it is more expensive than Aluzinc cladding and can be difficult to fabricate and install. Aluzinc pipe cladding on the otherhand, offers a more economical alternative while still providing good resistance to corrosion. -
Fiber Cement Cladding
Fiber cement pipe cladding is made from a mixture of cement and cellulose fibers, and while it has its uses where it excels, it is a less durable and less flexible option compared to Aluzinc pipe cladding. It is also much more prone to cracking, fading and discoloration. -
PVC cladding
PVC is a plastic material that is used as a cladding option. While PVC pipe cladding is less expensive and easy to install, it is also much less durable than Aluzinc pipe cladding and is noticeably more susceptible to warping and fading over time.
In comparison, Aluzinc cladding offers a good balance of durability, resistance to corrosion, design versatility and cost-effectiveness.
