Australian architects use a diverse range of materials for the exterior of buildings, whether for private homes or large structures. Sometimes, it is challenging to select the correct ones because factors such as the environment, aesthetics, and costs must be taken into consideration.

For your convenience, we’ve looked at eight important aspects to be considered when deciding on exterior materials and share our findings with you.

What is cladding?

In this article, the term “materials for the exterior” refers to cladding. In principle, cladding, including aluminium, is an exterior protective layer for the building.

Although its main purpose is to shield the structure from the elements, architects endeavour to use it in such a way that it also enhances buildings’ appearances.

Aspects to consider

We gladly share with you what we think are eight important aspects exterior materials should comply with.

1. Aesthetically pleasing

Cladding should complement the architectural style and enhance the structure as a whole. It must be aesthetically pleasing. Aluminium cladding facades, for instance, are very popular with ultra-modern structures.

2. Weather resistant

Ensure that the exterior can “survive” local environmental conditions. Factors to keep in mind include strong winds, high or low temperatures, rainfall, and humidity levels.

Aluminium buildings hold out against extreme weather conditions and there are many aluminium sidings on buildings in these areas.

3. Low maintenance

Designers must take the frequency and cost of maintenance into consideration when selecting materials for the exterior. Sometimes it is better to use a type that may have a higher initial cost in comparison with other materials but needs almost no maintenance.

4. Energy efficient

Aluminium, especially aluminium composites, offers excellent insulation. With good insulation on the outside of the building, tenants will be able to keep their utility bills low.

5. Comply with regulations

Most countries, including Australia, have strict fire and other building regulations. Always ensure that the cladding comply with

• all the fire and
• building requirements.

As an example, aluminium cladding installations comply to all required regulations.

6. Environmentally friendly

Check the life cycles of the materials to determine their long-term impact on the environment. Also, look at the manufacturers’ practices when producing the product to determine whether they are complying with internationally accepted manufacturing procedures.

7. Provide a warranty

It is always better to use cladding with a written long-term warranty. If the material has a short life span, costly re-cladding will be needed within a few years. Also, ensure that the warranty does not have too many and difficult ongoing requirements to retain the warranty.

8. Cost and availability

Get quotes from suppliers, but always keep the frequency and cost of maintenance in mind when comparing prices. Also ensure that enough of the product that will be used is available and that transport costs are included in the quote.

Conclusion

If architects take at least these eight aspects into consideration when selecting exterior material for their modern structures it can make their task easier.