Fighting climate change with style reasons
Fighting climate change with style reasons: With climate change, global warming, and the loss of natural habitats, moving towards sustainable construction processes is more important than ever. Reports suggest that global construction waste will double by 2025, and by then, we may have passed the point of no return.
Chemically treated water and wood can poison the surrounding plant and animal life—lead and asbestos are proven poisons as well. In the UK alone, the construction industry uses nearly 400 million tons of natural resources annually. Considering the impacts of construction on the environment, we need to move towards sustainable construction practices and use recyclable materials for construction.
Why Use Aluminum for Home Renovation and Construction?
Aluminum is the second-most widely used construction material after steel. The metal is also one of the most abundant materials in the world, with chemical properties that put every other metal to shame. In addition to being malleable, light-weight, and resistant to corrosion, aluminum is also completely recyclable.
Besides the fact that aluminum is an eco-friendly construction material, it’s also great for thermal and sound insulation. Notable buildings made with aluminum include:
- The Washington Monument
- The San Giacchino Church in Rome
- The Empire State Building
- The Capitol Area East End Complex in Sacramento, California
Considering the need to develop environmentally friendly construction practices and sustainable processes, aluminum is perhaps the best option for that end. The metal can be given any shape that you like; it doesn’t require too much maintenance and is long-lasting as well.
The Advantages of Using Aluminum
Although we’ve spoken of the advantages of using aluminum for construction before, the following section will discuss my aluminum is a superior material for all construction.
Aluminum is Eco-Friendly and Fully Recyclable
According to research, aluminum windows and buildings don’t need to be renovated or structurally repaired for at least 70 years. Compared to other materials of construction, like wood or steel, aluminum is considered a durable and long-lasting option. Since aluminum buildings and windows last for years, they don’t need to be replaced too often, and about 75% of all aluminum produced since 1886 is still in use.
Energy Efficiency of Aluminum
Homes need to be built with insulated materials to maintain consistent temperatures despite the weather changes. This reduces the need for heating or cooling equipment, lowering energy requirements for residences and even commercial buildings. Aluminum is a very effective insulator against both heat and cold. It’s a mark of the insulation capacities of aluminum that it’s often used in industrial applications to reduce energy costs.
Noise Cancellation
Just as aluminum is used for heat insulation, it’s also used as a noise-cancellation material. According to research, aluminum cancels out 85% of all noise by absorbing and corralling sound waves.
Unmatched Malleability
Aluminum is one of the most flexible and malleable metals on earth. Compared to steel, aluminum is easy to bend, melts at lower temperatures, and can be shaped in any way that you like. The malleability of aluminum makes it a preferred material for doors, windows, and many other design elements.
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Cost-Effectiveness: Beyond the Initial Price Tag
While the initial cost of aluminum might sometimes be perceived as higher than conventional materials like wood, it’s crucial to consider the long-term economic benefits. Aluminum’s exceptional durability and resistance to corrosion mean significantly lower maintenance and replacement costs over its lifespan. Unlike wood, it doesn’t rot, warp, or require regular painting or sealing. This reduced need for ongoing upkeep, combined with its energy-saving insulation properties, translates to substantial lifecycle cost savings, making aluminum a fiscally responsible choice for sustainable building.
Installation Efficiency and Specialized Applications
Aluminum’s lightweight nature simplifies transportation and installation, potentially reducing labor costs and construction timelines. Its ease of fabrication means components can often be prefabricated off-site, leading to faster assembly on-site and less construction waste. Beyond common applications, aluminum is increasingly used in specialized areas like prefabricated modular construction, lightweight bridge structures, and even high-performance building envelopes due to its strength-to-weight ratio and ability to resist extreme weather conditions.
Aesthetic Appeal and Modern Architecture
The inherent sleekness and versatility of aluminum allow for a wide range of aesthetic possibilities. It can be anodized or coated in various colors and finishes, offering designers a broad palette to achieve desired visual effects. From brushed metallic looks to vibrant hues, aluminum seamlessly integrates into contemporary architectural designs, providing clean lines and a sophisticated appearance. This aesthetic flexibility truly allows for “fighting climate change with style,” enabling sustainable buildings to be visually striking and aspirational.
Learn More,
Keep Aluminum Windows Shining: A Maintenance Guide
Cleaning Faux Wood the Right Way
The Environmental Benefits of Aluminum
Choosing the Right Window Option for Your Living Room
Frequently Asked Questions
Is aluminum truly sustainable for construction, considering its energy-intensive production?
While the initial production of aluminum is energy-intensive, its exceptional recyclability offsets this. About 75% of all aluminum ever produced is still in use, and recycling aluminum requires only 5% of the energy needed to produce primary aluminum. This makes it a highly sustainable material over its entire lifecycle, significantly reducing its environmental footprint.
How does aluminum compare to steel in terms of sustainability?
Both aluminum and steel are recyclable. However, aluminum is generally more lightweight, which can reduce transportation emissions. Its superior corrosion resistance means it often requires less maintenance and lasts longer in certain applications than steel, potentially giving it an edge in long-term sustainability for specific uses.
Can aluminum be used for structural components of a building, or is it primarily for windows and facades?
Absolutely! While popular for windows and facades, aluminum’s high strength-to-weight ratio and malleability make it suitable for a variety of structural components, including roof structures, framing systems, and even lightweight bridges. Its use in the Empire State Building demonstrates its capability for large-scale structural applications.
What kind of maintenance does aluminum require in a building?
Aluminum is remarkably low-maintenance. It doesn’t rust, rot, or warp, so it doesn’t require painting, sealing, or regular anti-corrosion treatments like some other materials. Typically, only occasional cleaning with mild soap and water is needed to maintain its appearance.
Is aluminum a good choice for extreme weather conditions?
Yes, aluminum performs very well in diverse weather conditions. It’s resistant to UV radiation, moisture, and extreme temperatures. Its non-corrosive properties make it ideal for coastal environments where salt exposure can be an issue for other metals.
