Cladding is a term that refers to the exterior facing of a building. It can be made from a range of materials including wood, stone, aluminium and glass. The choice of cladding material can have an impact on the performance of a building as well as the visual appearance. Cladding systems need to be durable, waterproof and weather resistant to perform well. They also need to be easy to clean and maintain. Over time, however, cladding systems may start to deteriorate and require re-painting. This is often a result of poor design and construction or ageing. IPRS Limited offer a variety of roof and cladding coating systems that can help to restore aged cladding and extend its life expectancy.
Historically, cladding was constructed from materials such as cedar wood, stone, copper and even asbestos. However, the development of a more sustainable approach to building design has led to an increasing popularity of metal cladding systems, which offer improved thermal performance and durability.
The most popular metals used in the manufacture of cladding include aluminium and steel. Both have a number of advantages, including high strength and corrosion resistance. However, they can be prone to degradation due to their exposure to harsh environmental conditions. Consequently, it is essential that they are coated with a suitable coating system.
One such system is the Tor EdgeProtect metal cladding protection system. It offers a durable, water-based topcoat that protects the metal from corrosion and rust, improving the exterior life of the building. It is a fast-drying product that can be applied to a wide range of surfaces, including concrete and brick. It also has good hiding and filling power, ensuring that any flaking or peeling is quickly hidden.
This system can be applied to both new and existing buildings, making it an excellent solution for protecting metal cladding systems against corrosion. It is particularly effective in areas that are exposed to salt spray or chloride contaminated air. In these situations, it can be particularly beneficial to apply the product in conjunction with other coatings, such as silicone and elastomerics.
Another system for protecting cladding against corrosion is ultrasonic impact treatment (UIT). UIT involves the application of high strain rate compressive plastic deformation to the surface of the cladding. This causes the gap and grain boundaries to close, and the size of precipitates between the grains to reduce. This can significantly improve the cladding’s anti-corrosion ability.
The cladding materials used for modern commercial buildings need to be able to resist corrosion, wear and tear. In addition, they must be aesthetically pleasing and comply with the latest regulatory requirements. It is therefore important that the correct cladding coating system is selected for each project. Choosing the right system will ensure that the building’s facades remain in good condition for as long as possible. A high-performance coating is the best way to protect a façade and enhance its overall appearance.