The material used on the exterior of any building is one of the most important aspects to ensure sustainable architecture. Although architects use various materials for functional and aesthetic reasons, alucobond remains one of the most popular cladding materials. In this article, we discuss some of the reasons why it plays such an important role in sustainable architecture.
Background
Since the first alucobond sheets were developed in the 1960s, it has become one of the most widely used materials in facades and other exterior areas of buildings. This is due to its specific characteristics, such as its durability despite its light weight. Architects and builders know from years of experience that the durability of alucobond material contributes to a great extent to the sustainability of architecture. The initial alucobond cladding price is usually less than what other materials cost, and it is also cost-effective in the long run due to aluminium’s long life cycle.
What is alucobond to make it such a sought-after material? It is a pair of lightweight aluminium sheets which are bonded with a core. It can resist harsh weather conditions. The material is also corrosion-resistant. Because this aluminium cladding material has all these attributes, it ensures that the rest of the architectural elements also have a long lifespan. This, in short, is why alucobond facades are so popular.
More details about more aspects playing roles
The exterior of a structure is often the only part of a building that people passing by will ever see. Therefore, architects endeavour to make the exterior as interesting and beautiful as possible. Let’s look in more detail at some reasons why this material is playing such a big role in sustainable architecture.
Colours and finishes
Alucobond architectural advantages include, amongst many other things, the variety of finishes and colours it offers. Architects can, for instance, utilise the smooth surface to reflect light in such a way that it enhances the aesthetics of not only the facades, but the whole structure.
Architects can also play around with the different colours of the material. It doesn’t need high maintenance and doesn’t fade easily. Regular repainting of the alucobond facades is not necessary.
Thermal insulation
Alucobond contributes to thermal insulation because the panels come in high-performance coatings that reflect solar radiation to reduce heat absorption. When used correctly, the architect can create a ventilated façade system where the sheets form the thermal barrier. The result is a reduced heat gain during hot summer days and less heat loss during cold winter days. Other less versatile materials don’t offer this thermal advantage.
Due to this characteristic of the panels, they play an important role in reducing building’s reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems.
Recyclability
Sustainability is also about the lifecycle of materials. These panels are 100% recyclable. Degradation in quality during recycling is minimal. Due to the almost zero environmental footprint, the role of alucobond in sustainable architecture is also to support green building certifications.
Conclusion
Alucobond is playing an ever increasing role in sustainable architecture due to its specific blend of functions, form, and environmental performance.
