Nowadays, architects frequently use aluminium cladding panels on buildings and other structures. The aluminium cladding panel has become probably the most widely used material for external cladding, especially in Australia. However, there are certain essential considerations to take into account for proper installation.
In this article, a few of the most important aspects regarding the installation of aluminium panels are discussed.
Pre-installation preparation of an aluminium composite panel Australia
Aspects to consider and check before installation starts, include
- ensuring that the material will fit the structure, and
- the removal of the protective film.
Correct fit
Before using aluminium cladding panel as material, installers have to ensure that the panels will correctly fit the construction’s design. Therefore they have to check that every panel is precisely made according to the specifications given to the manufacturer.
Removal of protective film
Usually, aluminium composite panels Sydney are covered with a non-transparent protective film when they are dispatched by the manufacturer. Extreme weather conditions often cause the film to stick onto the sheet’s surface. This can make the removal of the film very difficult and the surface of the aluminium cladding panel might be damaged. To prevent the protective film from sticking to the panels and damaging them the installer has to remove the film as soon as possible after the material has arrived at the construction site.
The installation process
To install aluminium cladding several aspects have to be kept in mind to ensure a successful process.
Preparation of the structure’s surface
To successfully clad the exterior of a structure, the surface has to be clean and smooth. By rushing the cleaning of the exterior surface might jeopardise the whole cladding process.
Direction of the panels
Whether aluminium composite panels are installed horizontally or vertically, they must be installed in a specific direction. The reason is that the paint finish on the sheets has been applied by the manufacturer in a specific direction. To keep the end-product aesthetically perfect, the direction of the installed sheets are very important. All the panels have to be installed in the same direction throughout the project.
Overall insulation
All joints and seams must be sealed to block the penetration of moisture. If the sealing is not done well right from the beginning, the structure’s weather resistance can not be guaranteed.
Hanging installation method
There are different installation methods but the hanging method is the preferred and most commonly used method with installers. The hanging method is a simple procedure and it shortens the construction time. This method also allows the movement of the cladding during thermal expansion and contraction.
Other important considerations
The following are some aspects which must also be taken into consideration when aluminium cladding has to be done:
- Possible extreme weather conditions such as strong wind, very hot temperature and seismic factors.
- Thermal expansion and contraction of the panels.
- The installer’s experience with this type of cladding and the tools, such as mechanical lifts, available.
