When it comes to selecting the right materials for a building or new design project, architects are tasked with making many decisions. There are a variety of factors including the shape and size of the structure to be built, environmental aspects, product use, and maintaining the overall project budget, to name a few. One material that continues to stand the test of time for architects is aluminum. Over recent decades, aluminum has become the go-to material for architects, whether constructing commercial buildings or conducting remodels on existing structures. This is because aluminum possesses a variety of desirable characteristics that make aluminum extrusions a resourceful choice for many applications. From its versatility, light weight, strength, and more, architectural millwork featuring stock or custom aluminum extrusions is incredibly popular.
Why Do Architects Use Aluminum?
There are many reasons why architects often choose stock and custom aluminum extrusions for their projects, large and small. The answer lies in aluminum’s unique properties that many other materials simply can’t beat. These characteristics include:
Lightweight. When producing structures, particularly larger-scale projects like commercial buildings, weight can be an important factor. When weight matters, aluminum is the obvious choice for most architects because it is such a lightweight material. Aluminum weighs between one-half to two-thirds less than steel but is still nearly as strong. Compared to steel, stock or custom aluminum extrusions boast an impressive strength-to-weight ratio, ultimately making it an unbeatable material choice for architectural millwork projects and more.
Versatility. Architects are involved in the development process for a wide range of structures, from commercial buildings to stadiums to schools, and everything in between. When considering which materials to use, they need an option that is versatile and able to conform to the specific needs of the project. Aluminum can be formed and shaped into nearly an unlimited selection of extrusions to fit the needs of virtually any structure.
Durability and resistance to corrosion. Another major benefit architects appreciate when using stock or custom aluminum extrusions is that they are highly durable and resistant to corrosion. This is key, as architects are responsible for designing structures that will live in diverse environments. Aluminum will hold up well over time without the risk of losing structural integrity or aesthetic appeal.
Appearance. Finally, architects use form and function to create environments and building structures to help us perform our daily lives. Architects rely on aluminum extrusions because they can be customized and designed to achieve the final design or desired aesthetics. Anodized aluminum finishes can give your extrusions a professional look not only improving the aesthetics, but also the performance. Whether in need of glossy or matte finishes, or a certain color, aluminum can be finished to meet the overall needs of a project.
Stock & Custom Aluminum Extrusions
There are many different ways how an architect might use aluminum extrusions for their builds. And while they can in some cases utilize existing stock aluminum extrusions, many times their designs and ideas call for custom aluminum extrusions to bring a vision to life. Architectural millwork might call for stock or custom aluminum extrusions for components for specialty aluminum accents, trims for premium casework, wall panels, cabinetry, fixtures, displays, all of which can be customized to exact specifications. Architects, design engineers, and more, who are creating a commercial, residential, or public space that calls for custom or standard aluminum extrusions trust Eagle Mouldings because we can meet their needs; regardless of the quantity needed. Eagle Mouldings is a leading supplier of custom aluminum extrusions and can fulfill the most immediate needs from an extensive inventory of stock extrusions available for quick delivery.
Architectural Aluminum from Eagle Mouldings
Eagle Mouldings has years of experience working with architects to create the custom aluminum extrusions they need, providing collaborative design services and unmatched customer service. We believe that your ideas should not be limited by standard shapes, and instead are committed to working with you to develop the exact profiles your project requires to achieve all aesthetic, structural, and functional purposes. After we’ve created your custom extrusions, we aim to help you achieve your project timeline. Eagle Mouldings offers some of the shortest lead times available in the manufacturing process, from the initial development phase until you receive the finished product at your location. Ready to get started? Contact us today.