1. Introduction
Just 48 hours ago, a major storm system swept across the Midwest, leaving dozens of metal clad sheds and commercial buildings with dented panels and compromised seals. Homeowners are now scrambling to assess damage—highlighting just how critical proper maintenance and installation are for metal clad structures. If you own a metal clad house, shed, or commercial building, knowing how to troubleshoot common problems can save you thousands in repairs.
Metal clad isn’t just a trend—it’s a durable, modern solution used in everything from corten steel facades to zinc clad dormers. But without the right care, even high-quality materials like aluminum clad steel or stainless clad aluminum can underperform. In this guide, we’ll walk you through seven frequent issues and exactly how to fix them.
2. Rust and Corrosion on Metal Clad Walls
Despite their reputation for durability, not all metal clad walls are immune to rust—especially if they’re made from untreated mild steel plate or improperly sealed corrugated steel facade panels.
Solution: Start by identifying the metal type. Corten steel siding naturally forms a protective rust layer, but standard carbon steel plate needs protection. Clean affected areas with a wire brush, apply a rust converter, then seal with a zinc-coated primer and topcoat. For long-term prevention, consider upgrading to clad metals like aluminum clad stainless steel or zinc metal siding, which resist corrosion far better.
3. Condensation and Moisture Buildup
Many owners of metal clad buildings report interior dripping or mold—often due to poor insulation or lack of vapor barriers behind the metal clad wall.
Solution: Install metal clad insulation with a built-in vapor retarder. Aluminum clad pipe insulation works well for conduits, but for walls and roofs, use rigid foam board between the framing and cladding. Ensure your metal clad roof has adequate ventilation—especially if it’s a standing seam siding system like PAC CLAD HWP or Colorbond standing seam.
4. Dents and Physical Damage
Hail, falling branches, or accidental impacts can dent exterior corrugated metal siding or vertical standing seam metal siding.
Solution: For minor dents in steel plate or aluminum diamond tread plate, use auto-body filler (like Bondo) after sanding and priming. For severe damage, replace the panel. When sourcing replacements, match the original metal clad type—whether it’s 2024-T3 clad aluminum or corten steel plate—to maintain aesthetics and performance.
5. Fading and Chalking of Painted Surfaces
Over time, sun exposure can cause painted metal clad siding to fade or chalk, especially on south-facing steel facade installations.
Solution: Clean the surface with mild detergent and water. Rinse thoroughly. Apply a high-quality acrylic metal primer followed by a UV-resistant topcoat. For premium longevity, choose factory-finished options like PAC CLAD column covers or pre-painted aluminum clad sheet, which come with 30+ year warranties.
6. Electrical Wiring Issues with Metal Clad Cable
DIYers often misuse metal clad electrical wire, leading to grounding faults or code violations—especially when running it through exterior walls.
Solution: Always use listed MC (metal-clad) cable rated for wet/dry locations if used outdoors. Secure it with proper fittings and ensure the armor is bonded to ground at both ends. Never cut metal clad cable with standard pliers—use a rotary cutter or dedicated MC stripper to avoid damaging internal conductors like cu clad wire or aluminum clad steel wire.
7. Poor Installation Leading to Leaks or Gaps
Gaps between panels, missing fasteners, or incorrect overlap on a metal clad roof or metal weatherboard system invite water intrusion.
Solution: Inspect seams and flashings regularly. Replace missing screws with neoprene-washed fasteners. For standing seam facade systems, ensure clips (like snap clad clips) are properly engaged. Use PAC CLAD coping or custom trim at transitions to prevent wind-driven rain infiltration.
8. Choosing the Right Clad Metal Meaning for Your Project
Not all clad metals are equal. The term ‘clad metal meaning’ refers to a composite material—like stainless clad aluminum or titanium clad steel—where a thin layer of corrosion-resistant metal is bonded to a stronger, cheaper core.
For coastal areas: Choose copper nickel clad or zinc nickel alloy panels.
For industrial settings: Opt for chrome carbide overlay plates or Inconel weld overlay for extreme wear resistance.
For residential aesthetics: Corten siding cost may be higher, but its raw beauty requires zero painting. Alternatively, zinc clad roof systems offer elegance with low maintenance.
9. Conclusion
Metal clad buildings offer unmatched durability, style, and sustainability—but only if maintained correctly. By addressing rust early, ensuring proper insulation, using the right metal clad type for your climate, and following code-compliant wiring practices, your steel clad house or metal clad shed can last decades. Whether you’re installing a new corten steel facade or repairing old corrugated steel, these solutions keep your investment protected and looking sharp.
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