What is the purpose of side cladding?

Side cladding—often synonymous with facade cladding—serves several critical functions in building envelopes. Its primary purpose is to shield the underlying structural wall from weathering—rain, UV radiation, and temperature swings—preventing moisture ingress and material degradation. In aluminum ceiling and facade systems, side cladding panels integrate insulation layers or fire-rated cores, boosting thermal performance and occupant comfort. Beyond protection, side cladding delivers aesthetic cohesion—unifying architectural elements with customizable finishes and profiles. Aluminum’s lightweight and modular nature also simplifies retrofits, enabling panels to replace aging or damaged facades without major structural alterations. Finally, properly designed side cladding promotes passive ventilation through rainscreen cavities, reducing HVAC loads and enhancing long-term energy efficiency.