Wood effect aluminium

Wood effect aluminium is a popular specification material for cladding on building exteriors as it is lighter, stronger and straighter than real wood. It also looks stunning, creating a clean, authentic and contemporary appearance without the durability concerns associated with timber.

In fact, when looking at wood effect aluminium you could be forgiven for thinking it is actually timber, such can be the quality of the wood effect finish. But it is far safer and is fast becoming the cladding of choice for architects, designers, property developers and contractors who want a swift installation and a safe and compliant product when specifying project materials. 

Compliance is a significant factor in specifying cladding materials. Combustible materials have been banned in cladding and other external facades of buildings higher than 18m that contain one or more residential dwellings since 2018. In December 2022, these regulations extended to buildings between 11m. Hotels, hostels and boarding houses were also brought within the scope.

Knotwood’s timber effect aluminium systems are fire rated to A2-s1-d0 and classed as non combustible.

For specification guidance and product samples, contact our team today.

Wood effect aluminium for your project

Knotwood is pleased to manufacture and supply wood effect aluminium for your project that provides the natural beauty and authenticity of wood, with the strength and other performance values associated with aluminium.

While there is a general affection for natural timber, particularly in an eco-conscious age that advocates biophilic design, wood is naturally combustible which makes buildings clad in timber at higher risk of fire.

Because aluminium is non-combustible and fire rated to A2-s1-d0, using wood effect aluminium for your project gives you the natural look you want while also ensuring compliance with all fire regulations.

Knotwood aluminium cladding is durable and versatile with a range of finishes, allowing you to create a truly customised effect. Our aluminium cladding comes with a powder coated woodgrain effect, thanks to the latest in sublimation and photographic film technology we use.

You can choose from different profile shapes and sizes, your spacing preference, different batten and slat angle options and backing alternatives, as well as your preferred colour of wood effect and finish.

This versatility allows for bespoke innovation in the design of wood effect aluminium for your project.

Benefits of aluminium cladding

As well as aluminium being non-combustible, the benefits of aluminium cladding include:

• Stunning aesthetics

Our cladding features the natural look of real timber, complete with woodgrain effect. Also, because our panels are modular and conceal all fixings, ensuring a seamless finish.

• Lightweight 

Aluminium is lightweight, yet stronger and straighter than real wood. This makes it easier for contractors to work with, and gives designers the confidence that the finished effect will meet their client’s brief. 

• Non-warping

Aluminium wood effect cladding doesn’t warp over time. This provides designers and specifiers with the peace of mind that there will be no deterioration in the appearance and strength of the cladding.

• Weather resistant

Aluminium cladding doesn’t swell, grow mould or rust when exposed to wet conditions. 

• Low maintenance

There is no requirement to paint or coat aluminium wood effect cladding to maintain the integrity of the product. This removes any concern over maintenance costs and the disruption that the upkeep of a building exterior could cause.

Why specify your wood effect aluminium cladding with Knotwood?

Architects, designers, property developers and contractors specify wood effect aluminium cladding with Knotwood because of the reliability of the product and service we provide. This reliability is down to Knotwood being a high quality, wood effect, aluminium product that offers many benefits to specifiers, contractors and users of buildings.

As well as the aforementioned advantages of aluminium cladding, Knotwood is a high performance aluminium cladding solution that offers the following additional benefits to specifiers:

• Knotwood meets the required EN 13501-1 Class A Fire Rated compliance specification, and fire rated to A2-s1-d0, making it fit for use as cladding on buildings.
• The beautiful woodgrain look of Knotwood is available in a range of finishes that create stunning designs of cladding for property owners to enjoy and be proud of.
• Supplied as seamless, flexible and easy to install profiles, Knotwood offers incredible customisation and versatility. Specifiers can depend on Knotwood to deliver unique and intricate designs. They also know that contractors won’t struggle when it comes to installation which mitigates costs and keeps projects on time.
• At Knotwood we rigorously test our colours to ensure their stability to the extent that we know they can withstand the worst of environmental conditions. This tells specifiers that the colour originally ordered will be the same colour on the building in many years to come.
• Knotwood uses VOC-free (volatile organic compounds) coatings and lead free finishes. Knotwood is also 100% recyclable at the end of its lifespan. Specifiers therefore know that Knotwood is an environmentally sound choice for their project.
• The topcoat of exterior grade paint that is applied to Knotwood provides resistance to chipping, flaking, blistering and scratching, which ensures that the building will continue to look at its best.

FAQs

How is the Knotwood woodgrain finish applied?

Our unique, specialist sublimation process transfers our unique woodgrain designs onto a powder coated surface to create a natural timber effect with a textured matt finish.

How do you apply the powder coating?

We use our vertical powder coating system that enables us to finish the aluminium base product more quickly than most of our competitors.

How do you ensure colour stability in Knotwood aluminium wood effect cladding?

We have worked with industry leaders to develop unique powders that deliver consistent, durable and rich colours.

Do you supply modular systems?

Yes. Using simple design with concealed fixings that offer easy installation, we have decking, cladding, self-mating, batten, slat and shutter systems. We also offer modular extrusions and components for our systems as well as aluminium geometric shapes.

Is Knotwood used for other applications than cladding?

Yes we have products for decking, balustrades, gates, awnings and pergolas and more. Take a look at our product range.

Can Knotwood provide wood effect aluminium for your next project?

Get in touch with the team at Knotwood to find out how we can help with your project, without obligation.