1. Introduction
Just 24 hours ago, a major architectural firm in Portland unveiled a new residential project featuring a striking corten steel facade that’s already sparking conversations across design forums. This surge in interest highlights a growing trend: more homeowners are choosing metal clad exteriors for their durability, modern aesthetic, and low maintenance. If you’re considering a metal clad wall for your home—or need help fixing one—you’re in the right place.
Metal cladding isn’t just for industrial buildings anymore. From sleek aluminum clad sheet panels to rustic corrugated steel facade designs, metal clad options now blend style with function. But what exactly does ‘metal clad’ mean? In simple terms, metal clad refers to a construction method where a building’s exterior is covered with layers of metal—often steel, aluminum, zinc, or copper—for protection and visual appeal.
2. Choosing the Right Metal Clad Material
Not all metal cladding is created equal. Your choice depends on climate, budget, and design goals.
- Corten steel siding offers a weathered, rust-like look that stabilizes over time. Great for modern homes, but check corten siding cost—it can be pricey.
- Zinc metal siding and zinc clad roof systems provide long life with minimal upkeep. A zinc clad dormer adds architectural interest without extra maintenance.
- For a classic industrial vibe, consider exterior corrugated metal siding or vertical standing seam metal siding.
- Aluminum clad steel (or aluminium clad steel) is lightweight and corrosion-resistant—ideal for coastal areas.
- Copper siding develops a beautiful patina but comes at a premium.
Pro tip: Colorbond standing seam and PAC Clad standing seam roof systems are pre-finished and widely available in North America, making them excellent choices for consistent color and performance.
3. Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Installing metal clad walls correctly ensures longevity and weather resistance. Follow these steps:
3.1 Prepare the Substrate
Start with a clean, level, and dry surface. Most metal clad walls require a rainscreen system—a small air gap behind the cladding—to allow moisture to escape. Use furring strips or a drainage mat to create this gap.
3.2 Install a Weather-Resistive Barrier
Wrap the wall in a high-quality housewrap or fluid-applied barrier. This layer protects against wind-driven rain while letting vapor pass through.
3.3 Measure and Cut Panels
Use metal sheet cutting tools (like aviation snips or a circular saw with a metal-cutting blade) to size your panels. Always wear safety gear. For precision, mark cuts clearly on stainless steel metal plate or aluminum diamond tread plate before cutting.
3.4 Mount the Cladding
Begin at the bottom and work upward. Secure panels using hidden fasteners for standing seam systems or exposed screws for corrugated styles. Leave expansion gaps as recommended by the manufacturer—metals expand and contract with temperature changes.
For corners and edges, use PAC Clad coping or PAC Clad column covers to ensure clean transitions and water shedding.
4. Common Problems and Fixes
Even the best metal clad installations can face issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot:
- Rust spots on corten steel? This is normal during the first 1–2 years as the protective patina forms. Avoid sealing it prematurely.
- Oil-canning (waviness) in large flat panels? Use narrower panel widths or add stiffeners.
- Fastener corrosion? Switch to stainless steel or coated fasteners compatible with your cladding metal.
- Condensation behind cladding? Double-check your rainscreen gap and ventilation. Metal clad insulation may help in colder climates.
5. Maintenance Tips for Longevity
Metal clad walls are low-maintenance, but not zero-maintenance.
Rinse your metal clad house annually with a garden hose to remove dust, pollen, and salt (if near the ocean). For tougher grime, use mild soap and a soft brush—never abrasive cleaners.
Inspect seams, fasteners, and flashings every spring. Tighten loose screws and replace any damaged trim pieces like PAC Clad HWP (horizontal wall panels).
If you have a steel clad building or metal clad shed, keep vegetation trimmed back to prevent scratches and moisture buildup.
6. Safety and Code Considerations
Always check local building codes before starting. In many U.S. jurisdictions, including Pennsylvania, metal clad electrical wire can be used in commercial buildings—but only if it meets NEC standards for armor type and grounding.
For structural elements, ensure your underlying framing can support the weight of materials like thick steel plate or boiler plate steel. And remember: metal clad doesn’t replace proper insulation—pair it with appropriate thermal barriers.
7. Conclusion
Metal clad exteriors combine beauty, resilience, and sustainability. Whether you opt for a corten steel facade, a zinc clad roof, or vertical standing seam metal siding, proper installation and basic upkeep will keep your metal clad house looking sharp for decades. With trends leaning toward bold, textured facades—and products like PAC Clad and Colorbond making installation easier than ever—now’s a great time to go metal.
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