What is the difference between cladding and veneer?1

Cladding and veneer both serve decorative and protective roles but vary in construction, material properties, and performance. Veneer typically refers to a thin decorative surface layer—stone, tile, or wood—adhered to structural walls primarily for aesthetics. It offers minimal structural protection or insulation. Aluminum cladding panels, by contrast, are engineered multi-layer assemblies combining an aluminum skin with core materials (insulation, fire-resistant cores, or composite cores). These assemblies deliver mechanical strength, weatherproofing, and thermal performance alongside visual appeal. Aluminum cladding weighs less than stone veneer, reducing dead loads and allowing for lighter structural support systems. Its modular panel approach simplifies installation and maintenance, while veneer requires heavy anchors and complex masonry seams. In modern facade design, aluminum cladding supersedes veneer where performance, weight savings, and long-term durability are priorities.