What is the difference between wall cladding and wall paneling?

Wall cladding and wall paneling both serve protective and aesthetic functions, but their applications and materials differ significantly, especially in aluminum facade and ceiling systems. Wall cladding refers to an external layer applied to a building’s structural walls to shield against rain, wind, and thermal fluctuations. Aluminum cladding panels are prized for their lightweight yet durable nature, offering corrosion resistance and customizable finishes—ideal for modern facade designs and integrated ceiling transitions. In contrast, wall paneling typically denotes interior decorative panels affixed to interior surfaces for insulation, acoustics, or visual enhancement. Aluminum paneling inside ceilings and feature walls provides a sleek, continuous look, enhances acoustic performance, and aligns with corporate branding through anodized or powder-coated colors. While both improve building performance, cladding focuses on exterior envelope protection, whereas paneling emphasizes interior aesthetics and functionality.