The benefits of aluminium cladding for commercial projects

From soaring skyscrapers to contemporary office complexes, the benefits of non-combustible aluminium cladding resonate across diverse architectural landscapes. Beyond its aesthetic allure, aluminium cladding stands tall for its durability, withstanding the rigours of time and nature to provide a resilient shield for buildings. The lightweight nature of aluminium not only expedites the construction process but also unlocks a realm of design possibilities, empowering architects to sculpt visually striking façades.

Knotwood uses high-performance commercial coatings and state-of-the-art sublimation processes to create woodlike Timber Grain aluminium that is greener, safer, stronger and easier to use than wood. From traditional warm woody hues to dark modern ashes, Knotwood has the most extensive range inspired by the natural world, built to last with a life expectancy of 25 years and more.

“As pioneers of innovation, we proudly lead the market with our cutting-edge designs. Our expertise lies in crafting top-quality aluminium systems, which showcase natural wood grain patterns and an extensive range of unique powder coat colours,” says Jade Galway, Knotwood’s Marketing Coordinator. 

Knotwood’s cladding system offers custom lightweight design solutions that complement any building, adding visual appeal and creating lasting asset value. Trims and finishing pieces provide a clean, minimal finish, and clip-in profiles can be added to achieve a striking textured effect. 

Why many people choose aluminium over timber or PVC

1. Durability

One of the foremost advantages of aluminium cladding is its exceptional durability. Aluminium possesses inherent corrosion resistance, making it impervious to rust and weathering. This durability translates into a longer lifespan for structures featuring types of aluminium cladding, reducing the frequency and cost of replacements or extensive maintenance.

2. Lightweight

Beyond its durability, the lightweight nature of aluminium is a significant benefit of this material. Aluminium’s low density not only simplifies handling and installation but also plays a crucial role in reducing the overall load on the building structure. As such, it is an ideal choice for projects where weight considerations are paramount, contributing to the ease and efficiency of construction.

3. Low maintenance

Unlike some traditional building materials that demand regular staining, painting or maintenance, aluminium cladding is low maintenance and retains its aesthetic appeal and structural integrity with minimal intervention. This quality not only saves time and resources but positions aluminium as one of the most sustainable and cost-effective choices for hard-to-reach areas, such as façades and ceilings, in the long term. It can also impact the asset and resale value, as owners often factor in the cost of ongoing maintenance or replacement. 

4. Aesthetic appearance

The aesthetic options available with different types of aluminium cladding contribute to its popularity in architectural design for commercial spaces. The material can be finished in a variety of colours and textures, offering architects and designers a broad palette to realise their creative visions. This versatility makes aluminium cladding suitable for a range of projects, from sleek modern structures to more traditional aesthetics.

5. Sustainability

Aluminium can be almost infinitely recycled, with over 75 per cent of the world's aluminium still in use today. Aluminium also promotes energy efficiency, The material reflects sunlight, reducing heat absorption and contributing to the cooling of buildings, which can translate into lower energy costs for the occupants. Its recyclability positions aluminium cladding as a sustainable option in the construction industry. 

Discover more of Knotwood’s products

The vision for Sunshine Coast City Hall was to create a built form of enduring beauty and civic significance that represents the region and its climate. Akin to the mountainous rocky outcrops of the region, the building rises from the Maroochydore coastal plain and adjoining urban square with landscaping a key feature of the building reflecting the native flora of the region. Knotwood supplied and installed 150mm cladding boards and 50 x 25mm battens in Silver Wattle.

Other commercial cladding projects include the Pacific Palm Beach, Queensland, where Knotwood’s aluminium cladding in Light Oak embellishes the soffits of the apartment complex. 

The same colour was installed for the walls and pergolas at McDonald’s Coffs Harbour. 

Woolworths Preston, Victoria, features cladding boards in Western Red Cedar to create a striking façade for its shopping outlet. 

The Brisbane Waters, Private Hospital achieved an eye-catching exterior with aluminium cladding in Australian Cedar, Atlantic Cedar and Light Oak. 

• Knotwood’s aluminium cladding in Kwila and Charcoal Ash transformed the shopfront of the Emporium Barbers, Woolloongabba, Queensland, into a striking design feature.  

As architects and builders continue to seek materials that balance performance with sustainability, aluminium cladding emerges as a reliable and versatile solution, contributing to the longevity and efficiency of structures.

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