Long-Term Savings of Aluminum Panels vs. ACMs 

Aluminum panels have emerged as a smart investment for both commercial and residential construction projects. These versatile panels offer long-term cost efficiency through their exceptional durability, minimal maintenance requirements, and lifespan.  

Parallel’s cladding systems combine the aesthetic appeal of traditional wood with the durability and low-maintenance benefits of aluminum cladding. Designed for both exterior and interior applications, this superior cladding solution adds beauty and longevity to any project.  

Architectural Aluminum: Parallel’s 12” Cladding vs ACM Panels 

Parallel’s 12” cladding board stands out against aluminum composite materials (ACMs) across key areas of material composition, installation, cost, and long-term value.  

You will notice fundamental design and use differences that make Parallel’s cladding a better choice for modern buildings. It offers both short-term and long-term benefits compared to ACM panels.  

Initial Cost & Investment 

When comparing Parallel’s cladding with ACM panels, there are significant differences in both material costs and installation processes. 

The materials’ distinct application methods primarily drive this significant price difference. Parallel’s cladding offers a streamlined approach, as the material arrives at the jobsite in standard lengths that can easily be modified during installation. In contrast, ACM panels require a more complex process involving prior field dimensions, shop fabrication, and then a return to the job site for installation.  

This preparation time, particularly in smaller projects, substantially increases the overall cost of ACM panels. The 12” cladding, on the other hand, can be ordered early and changed on-site, offering a clear benefit. It allows for quick and cost-effective installation, skipping the extra manufacturing steps needed for traditional ACM panels.  

Sustainability & Recyclability 

Recyclability and environmental impact is another significant difference between ACM panels and Parallel’s aluminum extruded cladding. Builders construct ACM panels with a 4mm polyethylene core sandwiched between thin 0.020mm aluminum layers on both sides. 

While manufacturers often promote the recyclability of ACM’s aluminum components, they typically omit the complex recycling process. This involves finely grinding the material and using specialized equipment, such as an electrostatic bed, to separate the aluminum from the plastic core. Due to the limited number of U.S. recycling facilities equipped with this machinery, a substantial amount of ACM material ends up in landfills.  

Parallel’s 12” cladding offers a more straightforward recycling solution, making it a more environmentally sustainable choice. Both excess cladding material from a project or removed cladding can be readily processed at any standard recycling facility. 

Learn about the advantages of aluminum here. 

Installation Costs 

The installation process and associated costs can vary significantly across different cladding scenarios.  

Scenario 1 – ACM Fabricator/Installer:  

For ACM fabricator/installers, the initial investment can be substantial, requiring either a straight-line routing table (approximately $6,000) or a CNC routing table (starting at $80,000). These fabricators must obtain precise field dimensions to calculate panel sizes and layouts. The process involves routing the ACM skin and attaching perimeter extrusions for support, plus adding backing extrusions to prevent panel deflections during wind events. While installation can be quick with proper equipment once panels are fabricated, any dimensional errors require new panels to be manufactured, causing delays and additional costs. 

Scenario 2 – ACM Panel Purchaser: 

For contractors who purchase prefabricated ACM panels from manufacturers, the equipment investment is lower, but the risk of measurement errors becomes more critical. The process begins by taking detailed measurements and creating shop drawings for the manufacturer. After manufacturer calculations and production, panels are shipped to the installer, typically in a six-to eight-week process. If any panels don’t fit correctly, obtaining replacements can add three to four weeks of delays, adding additional costs and impacting project timelines.  

Scenario 3 – Parallel Cladding Installer: 

Parallel aluminum panels offer the most straightforward approach. Materials arrive early to the project site in 20-foot lengths, and installation requires only basic tools: a saw, screw gun, level, and chalk line. The installer takes field measurements, cuts and installs trim progressively around the building, then cuts and installs the cladding. This method minimizes both upfront costs and project risks, offering flexibility to adapt to field conditions as they approach. The result is a quick, low-risk application with minimal potential for delays. 

The choice between these scenarios can significantly impact both initial costs and long-term project success, with Parallel’s systems offering the most efficient and adaptable solution for aluminum applications. 

Lifecycle 

The longevity and durability of cladding materials significantly affects the long-term value and maintenance requirements. Regarding warranties, ACM panels come with a standard five-year warranty against delamination and offer finish warranties up to 30 years. In comparison, Parallel cladding provides a lifetime warranty for the material itself, with 20-year warranties for solid finishes and 15-year warranties for woodgrain finishes. Solid finish warranties can be extended based on specific project requirements and finish considerations. 

 From a structural perspective, ACM panels consist of a plastic core with aluminum veneer laminated to both sides. This construction can present potential issues: If not properly engineered, wind loads may cause panel deflection sufficient to separate the aluminum face from the core, significantly reducing panel lifespan. Additionally, thermal exposure over time may lead to delamination, which can result in a need for panel replacement. Parallel’s cladding, being made of solid aluminum, eliminates these concerns and maintains their appearance indefinitely after installation. 

Durability 

High-traffic areas present particular challenges for exterior cladding. ACM panels are relatively susceptible to dents and scratches, often requiring regular replacements. This replacement process, paired with the sequential nature of ACM panel installation, can bring complications.  

Parallel’s 12” cladding offers superior durability, with both the panel and the finish showing greater resistance to abrasion and impact damage. Parallel’s installation system allows for top-down installation, making it easy to remove and replace lower panels that might be damaged by ground-level traffic without disturbing the entire installation. These practical advantages significantly reduce maintenance costs and complications. 

Combustibility 

Building codes have important distinctions regarding the fire safety of different cladding materials. Due to ACM’s polyethylene core, the International Building Code (IBC) Chapter 14 mandates that any ACM installation over 40 feet undergoes NFPA 285 fire propagation testing.  

Parallel’s cladding, being 100% solid aluminum with no core materials, is classified as non-combustible and does not require additional testing when installed over non-combustible substrates.  

It’s worth noting that the trend is to address aluminum composite material (ACM) as metal composite material (MCM) to avoid confusion with the code’s references to asbestos containing materials (also ACM). 

Choose Value with Parallel’s 12” Cladding 

When considering exterior cladding options, Parallel’s 12” cladding system stands out as a superior choice as it is cost-effective, durable, sustainable, and easy to maintain. This makes it perfect for projects that need quality and long-term value.  

Learn more about Parallel’s 12” cladding solutions and get a quote today!