Here at Just Spray, we specialise in a vast range of different onsite spraying and repair services. One of the most common problems encountered by clients is rusting on the edges of their cladding panels, which quickly begins to spread further, creating an unsightly appearance. While many assume that the only solution is to invest in cladding replacement, this most definitely doesn’t have to be the case. Cut edge corrosion treatments are a highly effective way to reverse the signs of rusting, restoring panels and avoiding costly replacement fees.
What Causes Cladding Corrosion?
During the initial manufacturing process, cladding panels are designed with a protective plastic coating, which covers the entire surface. This enables the panels to withstand all weather conditions without showing any signs of wear and tear. However, when it comes to the installation of cladding, often, panels have to be cut down and resized to accommodate the building. Due to this, although the panels will now fit seamlessly to the building, it does mean that the protective coating has been removed from the cut-down edges. This exposes weaknesses in the cladding, allowing the edges of panels to be exposed to damage.
Failing to reapply a protective coating to panels leaves them incredibly susceptible to rusting, otherwise known as cut edge corrosion. Cut edge corrosion can occur on any building designed with metal cladding panels; whether this may be a hospital, warehouse, retail unit or leisure centre. On an unprotected panel, cut edge corrosion will become inevitable due to ongoing exposure to adverse weather conditions, oxygen and bacteria. The metal cladding will react against the substances in question, causing corrosion to form.
What Is The Best Corrosion Treatment?
If you have noticed common signs of cladding corrosion such as discolouration, cracking or paint blistering, then it is vital to contact a professional as soon as possible to book panel repairs. The best route would be to opt for a cut edge corrosion treatment, which is the process of restoring panels to their original condition.
The coating used to treat the corrosion bonds to the surface of the cladding, leaving a permanent layer which will minimise oxidisation. This creates a reliable barrier between the chemical compounds and corrosive materials. It means that causes of corrosion such as rainfall and excess moisture will no longer be able to filter through the upper layer of cladding, replenishing the protective layer over panels. Not only will the protective coating prevent rusting, but it will also be entirely weatherproof, waterproof and able to withstand any element.
How Is Corrosion Treatment Applied?
To ensure that the risk of further damage is minimised, the application process of a cut edge corrosion treatment includes several steps. When enlisting the expertise of Just Spray to repair cladding, teams will begin by preparing the panels for recoating and respraying. All corroded paint, moss, algae and grime is removed, which will create a blank canvas. It is vital to ensure that any contaminants are removed before applying a treatment. Failure to produce a dirt-free, clean surface will risk contaminants becoming trapped under the new protective layer. Not only will this cause the upper coating to appear uneven, but it also means that the likelihood of rust returning would be high.
Next, any edges that have started to deteriorate will be repaired. This can either be by filling any holes or adding a new sheet of cladding over the damaged areas. Once any defects have been resolved, and the panels are free from any contaminants, they are ready to be recoated with the cut edge corrosion treatment. Any overlapping panels will be treated with an additional layer of sealant to ensure that every contour is fully protected.
If any blisters or crack appear during the restoration process, then this will be resolved before respraying. Opting to complete the treatment with a panel respray will restore the dulled coating. Just Spray use advanced technology to colour match shades to your existing building, ensuring that repairs can be as discrete as possible.
Why Is Corrosion Treatment Important?
Ensuring that you keep an eye out on the cladding damage that you may experience is imperative in reassuring the safety of your building. As a commercial premise, there are various safety regulations which you must comply to. Failing to spot the signs of rusting risks weakening your panels, which can prove incredibly dangerous. If left to spread further towards the structure of your building, structural components will no longer be able to withstand the weight of their load, causing cracking.
Cut edge corrosion is also common on roof sheets, which again, can prove potentially fatal if left unsolved. The corrosion will eat away at the metal, causing leaks in your roofing system, which is not only costly to repair but may also make your premises unusable.
Avoid Severe Damage With Corrosion Treatments
As mentioned above, corrosion on your commercial premises can come alongside a plethora of serious issues. Not only will the safety of your premises deteriorate, but the appearance will also be unsightly, causing a negative first impression. If you notice any of the signs of corrosion, then you must schedule a cut edge corrosion treatment as soon as possible. If you have any questions regarding any of the services included in our FAQ answer or would like to schedule a site survey, then do not hesitate to contact the team at Just Spray.
