1. Introduction
Just 24 hours ago, a major architectural firm in Portland unveiled a striking new residential project featuring a corten steel facade that’s already generating buzz across design forums. This renewed interest highlights how metal clad exteriors—once reserved for industrial buildings—are now a go-to choice for modern, durable, and stylish homes. If you’re considering upgrading to a metal clad wall system, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from choosing the right clad metals to long-term care.
Whether you’re building a metal clad house from scratch or retrofitting an existing structure with corrugated steel facade panels, understanding the basics of installation and upkeep is key. We’ll also clarify terms like ‘clad metal meaning’ and ‘metal clad meaning’ so you can make informed decisions without getting lost in jargon.
2. Choosing the Right Metal Clad Material
Not all metal cladding is created equal. The right choice depends on your climate, budget, and aesthetic goals. Here are some top options:
- Corten steel siding: Rustic, self-protecting finish; ideal for dramatic facades but comes with a higher corten siding cost.
- Zinc metal siding: Low-maintenance, develops a soft patina over time; great for a zinc clad dormer or full zinc clad roof.
- Aluminum clad steel: Lightweight and corrosion-resistant; commonly used in vertical standing seam metal siding.
- Copper siding: Premium look with natural aging; often seen in high-end metal clad buildings.
- Colorbond standing seam or PAC CLAD HWP: Pre-finished steel options offering color consistency and durability.
Remember, materials like aluminum clad stainless steel or stainless clad aluminum combine strength with corrosion resistance—ideal for coastal areas. For insulation needs, don’t confuse exterior cladding with aluminum clad pipe insulation, which serves a different purpose entirely.
3. Step-by-Step Installation of Metal Clad Walls
Installing a metal clad wall isn’t overly complex, but precision matters. Follow these steps for a professional result:
3.1 Prepare the Substrate
Ensure your wall framing is level, plumb, and wrapped with a proper weather-resistive barrier (WRB). This prevents moisture intrusion behind your metal facade.
3.2 Install Furring Strips
Attach horizontal or vertical furring strips (typically wood or metal) to create an air gap. This promotes drainage and ventilation—critical for longevity, especially with corrugated steel facade or exterior corrugated metal siding.
3.3 Cut and Fit Panels
Use metal sheet cutting tools to trim your chosen material—whether it’s zinc clad sheets, aluminum clad sheet, or corten steel plate—to size. Always wear protective gear; edges can be sharp.
3.4 Secure the Cladding
Fasten panels using concealed clips (for standing seam systems like PAC CLAD standing seam roof profiles) or exposed fasteners (common with metal weatherboard styles). Avoid over-tightening to allow for thermal expansion.
3.5 Add Trim and Details
Finish edges with PAC CLAD coping, column covers, or custom flashings. These details not only look clean but prevent water infiltration at joints and corners.
4. Common Problems and How to Fix Them
Even the best-installed metal clad systems can face issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot:
- Oil-canning (waviness in flat panels): Caused by improper fastening or panel stress. Use stiffeners or choose textured finishes like diamond plate sheet metal to minimize visibility.
- Galvanic corrosion: Occurs when dissimilar metals (e.g., aluminum and copper) contact in wet conditions. Always use compatible fasteners and isolation membranes.
- Scratches or dents: Touch up painted systems like Colorbond with matching paint. Natural metals like corten or zinc will blend minor marks over time.
Never use abrasive cleaners on stainless steel metal plate or chrome metal surfaces—opt for mild soap and water instead.
5. Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Performance
Metal clad walls are low-maintenance but not zero-maintenance. Follow these tips:
- Rinse annually with water to remove salt, pollen, or pollutants—especially important for coastal homes with aluminum clad steel or zinc facade.
- Inspect sealants and fasteners every 2–3 years. Replace any that show signs of wear.
- For corten steel siding, avoid power washing—it can strip the protective rust layer. Let nature do its work.
If you’ve chosen a steel clad house with a standing seam facade, check for debris buildup in seams after storms. Clear gently with a soft brush.
6. Conclusion
Metal clad exteriors offer unmatched durability, modern aesthetics, and long-term value—whether you opt for a bold corten steel facade, sleek zinc clad roof, or classic corrugated steel siding. By selecting the right clad metals, following proper installation techniques, and performing simple upkeep, your metal clad wall will look stunning for decades. With rising demand for sustainable, low-maintenance homes, going metal isn’t just trendy—it’s smart.
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