One of the first questions we often hear from clients is: “Should I go for steel or aluminium cladding?”
Both materials have distinct advantages and limitations, but ultimately the answer to that question will depend on a number of things – your building’s function, its environment, and your priorities in terms of performance, aesthetics, and long-term cost-efficiency.
In this article, we explore the key factors to consider, including material strength, corrosion resistance, weight, appearance, cost, and sustainability, to help you make an informed decision for your project.
Durability and strength
When considering durability alone, steel cladding comes out on top. Tough, rigid, and designed to withstand significant impact and pressure, it’s ideal for warehouses, agricultural facilities, and manufacturing units where robust walls are essential.
Aluminium is lighter and more flexible, making it easier to install – but it doesn’t match steel’s impact resistance.
Resistance to corrosion
Steel cladding relies on protective coatings – like hot-dip galvanising and organic paint – to ward off rust. These coatings can last anywhere from 10 to 40 years, depending on environmental exposure. However, even when coated, steel is vulnerable to rust over time, especially if that protective coating gets scratched or damaged. Maintenance and good detailing and finishing are vital.
Aluminium on the other hand, doesn’t rust – instead, it undergoes oxidation, forming a thin, stable layer of aluminium oxide when exposed to air. This layer can act as a protective barrier, preventing moisture and oxygen from reaching the underlying metal. Unlike iron rust, which flakes off and allows corrosion to continue, aluminium oxide is dense and tightly bound to the surface, making aluminium naturally resistant to further corrosion – unless that protective layer is damaged. In many circumstances, especially if your property is near the sea or in a damp environment, for example, aluminium’s corrosion resistance is a major advantage.
Weight and handling
Aluminium is around two-thirds lighter than steel, which can be helpful during installation. It also puts less strain on the building’s structure, and it’s easier to move into place – particularly useful for over-cladding older buildings where weight is a factor.
Steel’s extra mass while potentially a downside during installation, can contribute to its rigidity and structural integrity once it’s up.
Cost considerations
Prices for both steel and aluminium cladding vary, but generally speaking, steel is cheaper per square metre. Aluminium tends to cost more up front, but it may offer better long-term value in the right setting.
We always advise clients to think about total lifespan rather than just initial price – factors like longevity, maintenance, and replacement cycles are critical.
Appearance and finishes
Both materials come in a wide range of finishes, coatings, and colours. Aluminium does tend to be favoured in more architecturally led projects because of its crisp finish and longevity. Steel too can still look incredibly sharp and clean with the right profile and colour choice.
Sustainability and longevity
According to MCRMA’s (The Building Envelope Authority) GD39 sustainability guidance, you should prioritise materials that offer durability, low maintenance, and a long service life, supporting a fabric-first approach and future-proofing the building envelope.
Coated steel systems perform well but typically require scheduled maintenance to meet a building’s life expectancy. Aluminium often endures with less upkeep, balancing out its environmental cost over time.
So, which is best for you?
There’s no single winner here – both are good choices.
Ultimately, the best cladding solution is the one that fits your building, your location and your budget – now and in the future. If you’re still weighing up your options, it’s worth discussing it with an industry expert with years of experience with both materials – like us!
Get in touch today and we can help.
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