The most abundant material available in the Earth’s crust, aluminum has made a name for itself by being one of the most sustainable materials available on the planet. But how does aluminum make such a difference for the environment in its various forms and applications versus other materials? Key factors including its long lifespan, lightweight construction, and recyclability help it stand out from the rest of the building materials available on the market.
Aluminum’s Keys To Sustainability
It’s Longevity
Aluminum has made a name for itself by being a highly durable material, capable of withstanding the elements no matter the application. With a lifespan of over 40 years as a building material, it can be used without fear of failure for literal decades. Other materials require repairs and maintenance after only a few years, where you won’t have to worry about aluminum for quite some time. Once it’s reached the end of its long lifespan, it can be recycled and reused yet again!
It’s Lightweight Construction
One of the major benefits of aluminum is its lightweight construction. No matter in the form of aluminum sheets or cans, aluminum’s construction makes it much cheaper to transport. Weighing 65% less than steel and housing many of the same core aspects that has made steel so popular. You’re able to transport far more aluminum products to a job site than you can with steel or other materials for the same cost, making it a tremendously cost effective product, especially when factoring in the environmental effects these transports have on.
It’s Recyclability
Did you know that nearly 70% of all aluminum ever produced is still in effect today? Aluminum is 100% recyclable and can continuously be reused and recycled unless significantly damaged. This allows for less aluminum to be sourced, and in doing so reduces the need for large machinery to extract it from Earth’s surface. This reduces the sheer amount of greenhouse gasses these processes created. What was once aluminum sheeting used for a skyscraper’s facade could be recycled into car parts or even the cans we use to drink soda from.
Why Should I Switch To Aluminum For My Project?
Aluminum is making a name for itself as one of, if not the most, sustainable building material on the planet. Aluminum’s low weight means you can not only do much more with less, but that it weighs substantially less while still offering the same level of strength and durability as materials such as steel. Additionally, since 2005 the U.S. aluminum industry has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 59%.
If you’re interested in utilizing aluminum for your next project, simply contact Wieland-Wrisco. As the leading manufacturer and supplier of aluminum sheeting and aluminum coil, we’re able to supply your next project with high quality aluminum materials. Simply contact us today online and we’ll be more than happy to assist!