Aluminium façade cladding has become a key feature in modern architecture. Architects, contractors and homeowners are increasingly opting for it, both in new builds and renovations. Yet, a number of misconceptions persist. From “it rusts” to “it’s too expensive” — here are the ten most common myths about aluminium cladding, debunked.
Myth 1 – Aluminium cladding rusts easily
Many people believe aluminium will rust like steel. It doesn’t. Steel rusts and loses strength unless it’s protected with paint or zinc. Aluminium, on the other hand, oxidises — but that natural oxidation creates a hard protective layer that prevents further corrosion. As a result, aluminium remains both stylish and strong for decades.
Myth 2 – Aluminium cladding requires a lot of maintenance
Anyone with timber cladding knows it demands regular painting or oiling to maintain its appearance. Aluminium is different. Maintenance is limited to an occasional rinse with water or a mild cleaner. There’s no paint layer to renew, and aluminium doesn’t develop moss or mould as wood often does.
Myth 3 – Aluminium is too light to be strong
Because aluminium is lightweight, some assume it’s fragile. In reality, it has an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. Stone cladding is sturdy but extremely heavy, requiring a strong support structure. Composite panels are lighter but more prone to cracking or fading. Aluminium combines the best of both worlds — light, durable, and always mounted on a solid supporting framework.
Myth 4 – Aluminium façades are a fire risk
Cladding materials are often associated with fire hazards, especially timber or certain plastics that can ignite or spread flames. Aluminium is non-combustible — it doesn’t burn and doesn’t contribute to fire propagation. When installed correctly, aluminium cladding easily meets the most stringent fire-safety standards.
Myth 5 – Aluminium cladding is bad for the environment
While aluminium production requires energy, the material itself is 100% recyclable without any loss of quality. Over 75% of all aluminium ever produced is still in use today. That makes it one of the most sustainable façade materials available.
Myth 6 – Aluminium cladding fades quickly
Wood turns grey, plastic discolours, but aluminium is powder-coated or lacquered for long-lasting colour stability. Even popular dark shades such as black retain their deep matte finish for years without fading or whitening.
Myth 7 – Aluminium panels dent easily
Aluminium panels are robust and installed within a stable façade system. They withstand everyday forces such as wind pressure or the occasional impact during cleaning. In practice, aluminium cladding is every bit as strong as other materials — just lighter and longer-lasting.
Myth 8 – Aluminium expands and warps in the heat
All materials expand with temperature changes. Wood can bend or crack, and plastics or composites are even more sensitive, sometimes deforming or splitting. Aluminium, however, remains dimensionally stable. Thermal expansion is minimal and accounted for in the system design. Whether installed horizontally or vertically, the façade stays smooth and stable year after year.
Myth 9 – Aluminium cladding is only for new builds
Aluminium isn’t just for new construction — it’s perfect for renovation projects too. Thanks to its low weight, it can easily be mounted on existing walls without major structural work. That makes it particularly appealing for renovations: quick to install, efficient, and often more cost-effective per m² than expected. Plus, it instantly gives an older property a sleek, modern appearance.
Myth 10 – Aluminium facade cladding doesn’t last very long
In reality, aluminium façades last 50 years or more. The initial cost per m² pays off in longevity, visual appeal and minimal maintenance. For anyone seeking a contemporary, future-proof façade solution, aluminium is a smart investment.
The truth about aluminium cladding
Most myths surrounding aluminium cladding stem from outdated information. In truth, it’s a durable, low-maintenance and elegant solution that performs beautifully in both new-build and renovation projects.
