PRANCE metalwork is a leading manufacturer of metal ceiling and facade systems.
How do coastal environments impact metal panel elevation pros and cons for aluminum facades systems
Coastal environments introduce salinity, humidity and airborne chloride ions that accelerate corrosion and degrade coatings—critical considerations for aluminum façade systems in cities like Doha, Abu Dhabi, Dubai and coastal ports historically serving Central Asia via Caspian trade. Aluminum itself offers good natural corrosion resistance because of a protective oxide film, but alloys, welds, fasteners and joints remain vulnerable if not properly specified. Corrosive exposure shortens service life for low-grade paints and allows galvanic corrosion when dissimilar metals contact in humid, salty air.
To mitigate coastal disadvantages, specify higher-grade aluminum alloys (such as 5xxx/6xxx series), robust anodizing or PVDF coatings with sufficient film thickness and salt-spray test certification. Use marine-grade stainless steel (316) or coated fasteners to avoid galvanic interactions. Sealants must be designed for elastomeric performance under UV and saline attack—select products proven in Gulf climates. Design detail matters: minimize trapped water areas, provide drains and ventilation to avoid moisture accumulation behind panels, and arrange sacrificial elements where maintenance access is limited.
Maintenance regimes should be proactive—regular rinsing to remove salt deposits, inspection of edges and penetrations, and scheduled repainting intervals based on manufacturer guidance. For projects serving users between Doha and Kazakhstan’s Caspian-exposed cities, include corrosion allowance in subframe sizing and consider ventilated cavity designs that reduce direct salt deposition on inner surfaces. When specified, coated and detailed aluminum façades perform reliably in coastal zones; failure to account for these conditions is the principal source of the cons attributed to aluminum panel systems in coastal Middle East projects.