Architectural marvels: the role of metal panels

Metal is proving to be an architectural marvel in the construction industry, whether using panels for roofs, insulated paneling, or fencing. This material is versatile in appearance and highly sustainable. Metal decorative panels make commercial structures look sleeker and more modern, while residences can achieve a unique aesthetic. Overall, its enduring performance, strength and low maintenance requirements are unparalleled. Here's everything to know about the role this material is playing in global buildings.

What are the advantages of metal panels in architecture?

It's easy to understand why metal panels are becoming increasingly popular in residential and commercial architecture. In addition to its versatile design opportunities, it’s highly durable and capable of withstanding fluctuating weather conditions and wear. For instance, copper siding can last over 100 years with little maintenance¹, while steel siding lasts 50 years despite harsh cold and hot temperatures.

Other benefits of metal in architecture include the following:

Prevents fire from spreading throughout a structure.
Resists pest infestations.
Cost-effective and easy to install compared to other building materials.
Usually weighs less and doesn't require additional support.
Doesn't easily ding or dent, depending on the type of metal used.

Insulated metal panels (IMPs) for walls and roofs are especially advantageous for enhancing indoor comfort with airtight thermal resistance. The global metal structural insulation panels market was valued at $43.7 billion in 2021². It is forecasted to grow to $68.3 billion by 2031, illustrating a compound annual growth rate of 4.5% between 2022 and 2031.

How do metal panels enhance building aesthetics?

Beyond its benefits, metal is an architectural marvel because of its unique aesthetics. The panels offer a sleek and modern look, and come in wide-ranging finishes, colours and textures, allowing architects and designers to customise structures and create memorable buildings. For example, Frank Gehry's Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain, is clad with shimmering titanium. Most recognise its deconstructivist appearance—fragmented and asymmetrical—with many likening the waterfront building to a docked ship or a fish.

Depending on the angle, using metal panels for roofing plays off the sun's reflection for a stunning visual effect. Metal also throws off patterns and shadows few can achieve with other materials. This creates an exciting aesthetic when using metal fence panels or decorative panels.

What materials are used in metal panels?

Architects and designers utilise various metal materials in their structures. In addition to steel and copper, metal sheets come in tin, aluminum, and zinc. Each offers different properties for various design specifications. For example, steel's strength makes it viable for skyscrapers and bridges. Conversely, aluminum is lightweight and resistant to corrosion. It's also a preferred material for futuristic siding and interior aesthetics. Titanium is often found in newer architectural marvels and aerospace applications.

How do metal panels contribute to sustainability?

The construction sector isn't necessarily renowned for its sustainability. Globally, the industry produces 30% of global waste³—often highly contaminated and toxic to the living world. As such, the green building movement has spearheaded several eco-friendly design principles to reduce the built environment's impact on the planet.

Green building experts often use metal panels for roofs, known as cool roofing. They reflect sunlight and absorb less heat than conventional shingles. As a result, roof temperatures are lower and indoor temperatures remain comfortable. This helps reduce cooling costs from 7% to 15%⁴ by requiring less HVAC operations.

Metal production also accounts for lower global emissions than traditional construction materials. In fact, 10% fewer greenhouse gases are produced⁵ from combined aluminum and steel. Additionally, metal sheets are recyclable, which means they support a closed-loop system. Aluminum's secondary production has a five- to 25-times lower environmental footprint. Using steel scraps is also far more efficient and doesn't degrade or lose its durability as time passes.

Repurposed metal decorative panels may also enhance the aesthetic value of a building or home. Artists often use stainless steel as a medium for sculptures and other creative work. This metalwork is usually found in public spaces like parks or plazas. Households might also use metal sheets as an accent wall for a contemporary style or opt for metal frames in their furniture.

Future trends in metal paneling and other designs

With a greater emphasis on sustainable building and design, metal panels deliver new opportunities for the built environment. Technological advancements are also changing metal's role in the building industry. Three-dimensional printing and nanotechnology will alter how metal components are fabricated more accurately.

Likewise, metal surfaces are expected to become more repellent to dirt and environmental pollutants, extending their life span. Sustainable building principles will likely become the norm in architecture, especially as more structures seek green building certifications. It'll be interesting to see how metal embellishments will continue to be included in designs.

Metal materials continue reshaping architecture

Metal panels are a dynamic material in modern-day architecture. Whether used to reinforce structures, improve indoor thermal comfort or enhance the overall design, metal materials will remain an innovative wonder in the industry.