From the Empire State building to modern homes to state-of-the-art Olympic stadiums, aluminum has gained an important place in construction. Its lightness, durability and corrosion resistance make it one of the most versatile and sustainable materials of the 21st century. But why are engineers, architects and developers increasingly choosing it?
In this article we explain everything you need to know about aluminum in construction: its properties, benefits, applications and reasons why it’s considered a true “material of the future”.
Why Is Aluminum Ideal For Construction?
Aluminum wasn’t always so accessible. Until the beginning of the 20th century, its production was limited and expensive. In fact, until a few years ago (very few in fact), materials such as steel, concrete, wood, and even PVC were much more widely used in all types of projects.
Everything changed with the development of the electrolysis process, which reduced the cost of extraction by 80%. Today, almost 25% of the aluminum produced worldwide is destined for the construction sector, with a prediction that this number will be much larger by 2027.
But why is it so widely used today? Below, we explore the main advantages of aluminum in modern construction projects:
Perfect Combination of Lightness and Strength
Aluminum weighs only one third of the weight of steel, making it ideal for structures such as facades, roofs, stairs, windows, frames and enclosures. Its high strength-to-weight ratio facilitates the design of slimmer, lighter and more efficient buildings, while reducing transportation and installation costs.
- A brief fact: In 1993, the Empire State building replaced more than 6,500 iron windows with aluminum frames, achieving a significant improvement in energy efficiency.
The Perfect Material for Low Maintenance
Thanks to its alloys with elements such as magnesium or manganese, aluminum is highly resistant to corrosion, moisture and UV rays. It doesn’t oxidize like other metals and maintenance is minimal, even in coastal or industrial environments.
In addition, when anodized, its surface becomes three times harder, with high resistance to wear, flaking or chipping. Also, only a few materials are needed for cleaning, such as everyday tap water.
Thermal Insulation and Energy Efficiency
Aluminum reflects heat naturally. Applied in roofs, windows or shading systems, it can keep interiors cooler in summer, reducing the use of air conditioning up to 59° F.
Combined with double glazing or technologies such as thermally broken systems, it can offer outstanding thermal and acoustic insulation. This makes it a key material in sustainable construction and certifications such as LEED.
Fire Resistant Material
Aluminum does not burn and is classified as a non-combustible material (class A1). Although it melts at 1202° F, it doesn’t release toxic gases. Therefore, it’s often used in exterior cladding, where it can contain the spread of fire and allow heat and smoke to escape in an emergency.
Aesthetic and Customizable
Thanks to its properties, aluminum can be lacquered or anodized in almost any color, allowing it to be adapted to all types of architectural styles, from modern facades to classic designs.
It can be bent, drilled, extruded or milled with great precision. This makes it a favorite choice for those seeking both functionality and beauty.
100% Recyclable and Sustainable
Aluminum is a recyclable material that cannot lose its properties. It’s estimated that 75% of all aluminum produced in history is still in use today. Moreover, recycling it requires only 5% of the energy needed to produce it from scratch.
That’s why aluminum is considered a green material and excellent for preserving the environment.
Where Is Aluminum Used in Construction?
The use of aluminum is as broad as it is innovative. Here are some of its most common applications:
- Exterior building structures (storefronts, roofs, curtainwalls).
- Windows, doors, partitions and automated access systems.
- Handrails, stairways, false ceilings and interior partitions.
- Facade cladding and solar shading panels.
- Drainage systems, gutters and downspouts.
- Transportation infrastructure, bridges and stadiums.
Whether for aesthetic, functional, ecological or economic reasons, aluminum has become one of the best options in modern construction. Its lightness, durability and adaptability make it the preferred choice for visionary architects, discerning engineers and developers committed to sustainability.
With the evolution of alloys, treatment processes and their integration into intelligent systems, aluminum’s potential is beginning to expand, as its use will increase in the coming years.
And to make the most of all these advantages, it’s essential to have a supplier that offers high-quality products, tailor-made solutions and proven expertise. PRL Glass & Aluminum is a leading manufacturer of architectural aluminum and glass systems in the United States.
They extrude profiles, produce door, window, and storefront systems, and combine technology, aesthetics, and strength in meeting the highest design and regulatory standards.
With domestic manufacturing, fast delivery and personalized attention, PRL is a reliable partner that can transform any architectural project into efficient, safe and visually stunning work.
Are you planning your next project? Investing in aluminum is investing in the future… and doing it with PRL guarantees long-lasting results.
