What Are ACM Wall Panels And Where Are They Used? 

When it comes to wall cladding materials, the options are virtually limitless. Some property owners prefer timber for its rustic and natural feel, whereas others favor porcelain slab for its sleekness and low maintenance.  

Natural stone and fiber cement are also reasonably common wall cladding materials. Both options are remarkably durable, with cement providing additional eco-friendly benefits.  

But if you’re looking for a cladding material that guarantees exceptional durability, incredible lightness, and low maintenance, you may want to look in the direction of ACM.  

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Read on as we unpack what ACM wall panels are and why they’re a priority for smart property owners. 

What Are ACM Panels? 

ACM, short for aluminum composite material, is a panel designed for use in external wall cladding. The panels are typically used alongside other materials to form a weather-proof, highly ventilated wall barrier.  

Installing ACM wall panels can bolster a building’s waterproofing membranes, minimizing long-term water damage. The material creates a robust barrier that prevents water from coming into contact with your building’s walls and foundation.  

While some moisture might still seep behind the panel, this is usually insignificant and is quickly repelled by other waterproofing membranes within the wall cavity.  

What Are ACM Panels Made From? 

ACM panels are three-layer sandwich panels typically constructed from two thin aluminum sheets that are strongly bonded to a core, usually a low-density polyethylene (PE).  

Some ACM panels may be made from mineral-filled flame-retardant cores, replacing polyethylene. This provides an extra layer of protection in case your property catches fire.  

Examples of commonly used flame-retardant materials include fluoropolymer resins (FEVE) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF).  

Both sides of the aluminum sheets are often covered in stylish finishes. The decorative material used may have flame-retardant properties, enhancing the panels’ aesthetic appeal while providing additional protection against fires.  

Why Install ACM Panels? 

1. Extended Durability 

The durability of ACM panels is primarily rooted in their chief component – aluminum.  

While aluminum isn’t the strongest metal around, it has a natural oxide layer that protects it against corrosion and adverse weather.  

ACM panels have an average lifespan of 20 – 30 years. The cladding materials may last even longer if constructed from anodized aluminum, professionally installed, and well-maintained. 

2. Incredible Lightness 

Aluminum is famous for its lightweight properties. The material can be up to one-third less dense than steel, but no less robust.  

Those properties are replicated in ACM panels.  

Due to their lightness, ACM panels can provide decades of weatherproof protection without exerting unnecessary pressure on the underlying substrate.  

3. Better Thermo-stability 

One common argument against installing wall cladding is that it may impact the adjacent wall’s thermal conductivity.  

Well, not so for ACM panels.  

The triple layers in ACM panels serve as insulators, minimizing heat transfer. Besides, their lightness enables manufacturers to experiment with more material to create a more robust insulation layer without adding extra weight. 

4. Non-Combustibility 

Most aluminum composite materials are reinforced with flame-retardant substances, making them incredibly non-combustible.  

Some panels can withstand extreme temperatures of up to 600 degrees Celsius.  

Even if an adjacent property is ablaze, you can rest assured your wall cladding will effectively repel the flames. 

5. Low Maintenance 

Since ACMs are inherently weather resistant, they can go for months without significant maintenance.  

The materials’ moisture-proof properties prevent rusting, corrosion, and mold growth.  

With ACM panels, you won’t have to worry about frequent repainting or mold remediation. Occasional wipe-downs with plain water and soap are all it takes to restore the cladding’s brilliance.  

6. A Panel for Every Property 

Aluminum composite materials come in multiple designs and finishes.  

The materials can be styled to exude timber’s rusticity or marble’s exquisiteness, depending on the desired aesthetic effects.  

ACM panels are also available in different color schemes, including metallic and non-metallic shades. 

Common Applications of ACM Panels  

ACM panels are mainly used for architectural façades and cladding. The materials are exceptionally weatherproof, enabling them to guard against water intrusion.  

ACM panels have also found their way into the signage industry.  

The panels are highly versatile and can be customized into different styles, making them ideal for both indoor and outdoor signage requirements. Companies can also pick from a variety of colors, depending on the intended visual effects.  

Other common applications of ACM panels include: 

Wall partitioning 

Ceiling constriction 

Curtain walls 

Considerations Before Installing ACM Panels 

While ACM panels offer numerous functional and structural benefits, certain considerations are necessary before installing these cladding materials.  

First, understand the components of an ACM panel before choosing it. Insist on materials constructed from chemically enhanced aluminum and coated with flame-retardant compounds. Ensure the panel meets the required building code and fire safety regulations, especially if you plan to install it on a commercial building.  

It’s also prudent to assess the structural implications of installing ACM panels. Despite their exceptional lightness, the underlying wall or substrate should be robust enough to support the panel’s weight.  

Also, while ACM panels have superior weather-resistant properties, it’s important to create a solid weatherproof barrier during installation. Use silicone-based sealants and gaskets to prevent water ingress, with a particular focus on the edges and corners.  

Remember to spare a thought for ventilation and thermal expansion as well.  

While installing ACM panels, incorporate ventilation features like weep holes. This provides free air circulation and prevents moisture build-up behind the wall cavities. Besides, install thermal joints to manage the alternate expansion and contraction of the cladding material.  

Needless to say, have your ACM panels installed by an experienced technician.  

The installer will typically start with surface preparation. This entails cleaning dirt and removing defects that could impact the adhesive’s bonding properties.  

Next, the technician will install a subframe and drill holes for fasteners. The panels are then cut to the required size and carefully mounted onto the subframe.  

Finally, the installer will secure the ACM panels with fasteners before sealing the joints and edges to prevent moisture intrusion.  

Final Word 

Aluminum composite material wall panels have several properties that make them the go-to wall cladding option for contemporary property owners.  

ACM lasts incredibly longer than other wall cladding materials. Extended durability translates to minimal care and better cost efficiency in the long run.  

Besides, ACM wall panels are super lightweight. The material doesn’t exert undue pressure on the underlying wall or substrate.  

Coupled with their unmatched weather resistance, it’s understandable why ACM wall panels are popping up on both residential and commercial properties.  

However, extreme caution is paramount when installing aluminum composite materials.  

To unlock the benefits of ACM wall panels, a contractor must make sufficient provisions for ventilation and thermal expansion. This helps to regulate moisture build-up and thermal activity within the wall cavity.