Exterior cladding serves as the protective outer layer of buildings, covering walls and roofs. For commercial and industrial projects, single-skin panels are typically pre-formed from metal. Their exceptional durability and ease of installation make them a popular choice for low-maintenance construction. However, like any material, metal cladding has its advantages and drawbacks. In this article, we explore the pros and cons of using metal cladding and how cladding spraying can address many of the common issues.
Advantages of Metal Cladding
Durability
Metal cladding is remarkably strong and highly resilient to water damage, electrochemical reactions, and corrosion. Overall, metal panels boast an impressively long lifespan while requiring almost no maintenance.
Wide Range of Styles and Finishes
Metal cladding can dramatically change the overall look of a building. It comes in a wide range of finishes and varying styles, including numerous colour options.
Low Maintenance
Compared to wood, stone, and painted surfaces, metal cladding panels require very little maintenance or repair work. They are very resistant to harsh weather conditions, often needing only simple cleaning to maintain their appearance.
Sustainability
Metal cladding panels can be made of post-consumer recycled products, making them environmentally friendly and reducing the amount of material that goes to landfill.
Disadvantages of Metal Cladding
Rust
When cladding sheets are cut to size, the edges aren’t re-coated, leaving them exposed. Over time, these edges are likely to rust, potentially leading to leaks and eventual replacement.
Colour Fading
Photodegradation, caused by factors such as UV light, harsh weather, pollutants, and moisture in the air, can lead to colour fading.
Chalking
Paint naturally wears away over time, with different types degrading at varying rates.
Delamination
Ageing and weathering can cause cladding to deteriorate, allowing moisture to seep in and create rust, which can split the top polyester layer from the metal of the cladding.
Cladding Spraying – The Solution
While metal cladding has some disadvantages, these issues can be effectively addressed through cladding spraying. This process involves applying a protective coating to the exterior cladding, offering numerous benefits:
Extended Lifespan
Cladding spraying can extend the life of metal cladding by up to 20 years, providing long-lasting protection against weathering and corrosion.
Cost-Effectiveness
Spraying is significantly more affordable than replacing cladding panels. It’s a cost-effective solution that can save businesses money on expensive replacements.
Minimal Disruption
The cladding spraying process is quick and efficient, causing minimal disturbance to business operations. Our teams can work weekends and out of hours to minimise disruption.
Aesthetic Improvement
Cladding spraying can transform the appearance of your building, with a wide range of colours available. This makes it ideal for rebranding or modernising your property’s look.
Enhanced Protection
The protective coating applied during spraying helps prevent damage from weathering, corrosion, and other environmental factors. It provides excellent protection against UV damage and can treat cut edge corrosion.
Quick Application
Cladding spraying is around 7 times faster than traditional painting methods, allowing for a quicker turnaround and less downtime for your business.
Versatility
Cladding spraying can be applied to various materials, including metal, wood, and plastic, making it a versatile solution for different types of cladding.
By choosing cladding spraying, you can address the common issues associated with metal cladding while enhancing its inherent benefits. This process not only prolongs the lifespan of your cladding but also improves its appearance and protective qualities, making it an excellent investment for any commercial or industrial property. This can extend the life of metal cladding by up to 20 years.

Looking For Cladding Spraying Services?
Give us a call on 01603 405318, or fill in our contact form and we will be more than happy to assist you.