How Do Maintenance Costs Differ Between Drywall and Aluminum Walls?

Maintenance costs over a 20-year horizon favor aluminum wall systems compared to recurring drywall upkeep. Drywall repairs accumulate through routine patching of dents, nail pops, and joint cracks—each requiring labor, materials, and surface refinishing. Periodic repainting every five to seven years is common in commercial spaces, entailing extensive preparation to ensure adhesion and smoothness. Moisture-induced mold remediation can further inflate expenses in humid climates.

Conversely, aluminum panels require minimal upkeep: damaged sections can be swapped quickly without site sanding or paint. The durable factory finish resists fading and staining, reducing the need for surface treatments. Cleaning involves low-cost detergents and occasional rinsing, eliminating repaint cycles. When comparing total cost of ownership—including labor, materials, downtime, and waste disposal—aluminum wall systems often realize a 30–40% reduction in maintenance expenditure over drywall. This delivers strong ROI for asset owners prioritizing predictable operational budgets and streamlined facility management.