What is the main purpose of cladding?

Cladding serves as a non-structural yet critical building envelope element, designed primarily to protect the structural components from environmental stresses while contributing to thermal performance and architectural expression. In aluminum ceiling and facade systems, cladding panels create a continuous barrier against moisture ingress, UV exposure, and pollutants, extending the life of underlying substrates. The high strength-to-weight ratio of aluminum allows for large spans with minimal support, reducing installation complexity. Additionally, aluminum cladding can incorporate insulation substrates, improving energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer through walls and roofs. From a design standpoint, aluminum facades offer versatile finishes—brushed, anodized, or custom-printed—allowing architects to realize complex geometries and branding requirements. Ultimately, cladding delivers weatherproofing, fire resistance, and aesthetic cohesion, making it indispensable for contemporary building envelopes.