Is Aluminum Cladding More Impact-Resistant Than Conventional Drywall?

Aluminum cladding systems deliver a level of impact resistance that drywall cannot match. Gypsum boards, even when reinforced with fiberglass facers, remain vulnerable to knocks from carts, moving furniture, or everyday foot traffic in corridors. In contrast, aluminum panels—especially those fabricated from alloy grades like 5005 or 6063—absorb impacts elastically and resist permanent deformation. Factory-applied powder coats or anodized finishes bond tightly to the metal substrate, preserving surface integrity under repeated blows.

For environments such as airports, schools, healthcare, and retail, where carts, wheelchairs, or equipment may repeatedly contact walls, aluminum cladding reduces repair cycles and maintains a pristine appearance. Minor surface blemishes can often be buffed or retouched in situ, whereas drywall requires cutting out damaged sections, installing new mud, tape, and repainting. Additionally, the lightly ribbed or embossed textures available in metal cladding help to mask scuffs and scratches. Ultimately, aluminum cladding offers long-term cost savings and better protection against impact damage compared to conventional drywall systems.