1. Introduction
Just 24 hours ago, a major architecture firm in Portland unveiled a new residential project featuring a striking corten steel facade that’s already sparking conversations across design forums and social media. With sustainability and modern aesthetics driving demand, more homeowners are turning to metal clad exteriors—not just for commercial buildings, but for metal clad houses too. If you’re considering upgrading your home with a metal clad wall or metal facade, you’re not alone. But how do you actually install and maintain one without costly mistakes?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from understanding what metal clad meaning really entails to choosing the right clad metals, installing your metal siding correctly, and troubleshooting common issues like corrosion, denting, or poor insulation.
2. What Is Metal Clad?
Metal clad (or metalclad) refers to any construction material where a base metal is bonded or coated with another metal to enhance performance, durability, or appearance. The term ‘clad metal meaning’ often describes composites like aluminum clad steel, stainless clad aluminum, or even titanium clad sheets used in everything from aerospace to home exteriors.
For residential use, ‘metal clad‘ typically means exterior cladding—such as metal clad siding, corrugated steel facade panels, or standing seam systems—that wraps your home’s structure. Popular options include corten steel siding, zinc metal siding, copper siding, and colorbond standing seam roofs. These materials offer weather resistance, low maintenance, and a sleek industrial look.
3. Choosing the Right Metal Clad Type for Your Home
Not all clad metals are created equal. Your choice depends on climate, budget, and design goals.
- Corten steel siding: Rustic, self-weathering look; ideal for modern or rustic homes. Note: corten siding cost can be higher upfront but requires minimal maintenance.
- Zinc facade or zinc clad roof: Elegant, long-lasting (60+ years), and naturally corrosion-resistant.
- Aluminum clad sheet or aluminum diamond plate: Lightweight, rust-proof, and great for coastal areas.
- Copper siding: Develops a beautiful patina over time but comes at a premium price.
- Exterior corrugated metal siding: Affordable and rugged; often used on metal clad sheds or industrial-style homes.
Also consider insulation needs. Metal clad insulation—like aluminum clad pipe insulation or insulated metal panels—can improve energy efficiency, especially in colder climates.
4. Step-by-Step Installation of a Metal Clad Wall
Installing a metal clad wall isn’t a weekend DIY job unless you’re experienced with metal sheet cutting and fastening. But here’s a simplified overview:
- Prepare the substrate: Ensure your wall is structurally sound, flat, and fitted with a proper moisture barrier.
- Install furring strips: These create an air gap behind the cladding, allowing drainage and reducing condensation.
- Measure and cut panels: Use shears or a metal-cutting saw for precision. Always wear safety gear.
- Start at the bottom: Install your first panel level and secure with hidden fasteners or clips (common in vertical standing seam metal siding).
- Overlap correctly: Follow manufacturer specs—especially for corrugated steel facade or pac clad standing seam systems.
- Seal edges and joints: Use compatible sealants and pac clad coping or column covers for clean transitions.
Pro tip: For roofs, pac clad hwp (horizontal wall panels) or pac clad standing seam systems offer seamless integration with your metal facade.
5. Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Even the best metal clad systems can face issues:
- Rust or staining: Usually from improper drainage or incompatible fasteners. Solution: Use stainless steel fasteners and ensure proper slope and flashing.
- Denting: Hail or impact can damage softer metals like aluminum. Choose thicker gauges or textured finishes like aluminum tread plate for high-risk zones.
- Oil canning (waviness): Caused by over-tightening panels. Fix by loosening fasteners slightly or using stiffened panels.
- Thermal expansion noise: Metal expands in heat. Allow for movement with slotted holes or floating clips.
If you’re using clad steel near saltwater, opt for marine-grade alloys like 5052 aluminum plate or 316 stainless steel plate to prevent corrosion.
6. Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Performance
One reason metal clad houses are trending is their low upkeep—but they’re not zero-maintenance.
- Clean annually with mild soap and water to remove dirt, pollen, or salt buildup.
- Inspect seals and fasteners every 2–3 years.
- For corten steel facade panels, avoid sealing the surface—its protective rust layer needs to form naturally.
- Touch up scratches on painted systems (like Colorbond) promptly to prevent rust underneath.
Remember: materials like zinc clad dormer roofs or copper siding develop patinas that enhance their look over time—don’t try to ‘clean’ them back to original shine.
7. Conclusion
Whether you’re building a new metal clad building or re-cladding an existing home, choosing the right metal clad type and installing it properly makes all the difference. From corten steel plate accents to full aluminum clad steel walls, today’s clad metals offer unmatched durability and style. With the right prep, installation, and care, your metal clad house can stand strong—and look stunning—for decades.
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