External ACP Panels vs. Internal ACP Panels: What You Need to Know

Aludecor is a leading manufacturer and exporter of Aluminum Composite Panels or ACP sheets in India. ACP panels are a versatile cladding material that can be used for various applications, including exterior cladding, interior cladding, signage, and advertising.

When choosing ACP panels for your project, it is important to know the difference between external and internal ACP panels. External ACP panels are designed to withstand the natural elements of UV ray, rain and dust, while internal ACP panels are designed for indoor use only and style. Both of these two types of ACP sheets can enhance the style of the property; however, there are certain differences one needs to know to pick the correct ACP sheet while installing.

Let’s find out more –

Exterior Cladding done using Aludecor ACP Panel in Loma IT Park, Mumbai

External ACP Panels

Generally, External ACP panels are made with a thicker aluminium top and bottom sheet and a more durable surface coating than internal ACP panels. This makes them resistant to weathering and fading. External panels can be made fire-resistant by enhancing their core in addition to ATH and MDH. The fire ratings which are possible would be Class B or Class A2 in accordance to EN13501-1, as per the calculated fire load.

Exterior ACP Cladding done on Jibonrekha Hospital in Rajasthan

Benefits External ACP Panels

  • Resistant to weathering and fading, and scratches: ACP sheets have a protective coating that saves them from fading, shocking and any other chemical effect present in the atmosphere.
  • Fire-resistant: ACP sheets are fire-resistant, making them a safe choice for use in exterior applications. Depending on the fire load, the ACP sheets could either be of Class B or Class A2.
  • Durable and long-lasting: ACP sheets are durable and long-lasting, making them a wise investment for your home or business. They are made of high-quality materials that can withstand the elements and heavy use. ACP sheets are also low-maintenance, so you can enjoy their beauty for years to come.
  • Available in a variety of colors, textures, and finishes: ACP sheets are available in a variety of colors, textures, and finishes, so you can find the perfect look for your project. They can be used to create a variety of looks, from classic and elegant to modern and sleek.
  • Easy to install: ACP sheets are easy to install. They can be installed by a professional fabricator within a few days of time.
  • Affordable: ACP sheets are an affordable option for exterior cladding compared to its peers. They are a cost-effective way to improve the look and value of your home or business.

Read also: ACP Sheet Designs for Home and Other Interiors

Exterior ACP Cladding done at Krishna Floors and Furnishings in Rajasthan

Applications of External ACP Panels

  • Exterior cladding: ACP sheets are a popular choice for exterior cladding, as they are durable, low-maintenance, and available in a variety of colors and finishes. They can be used to clad the exterior of shops, homes, commercial places, and other buildings.
  • Corporate identity: ACP sheets are a popular choice for signage, kiosks, totems and POPs, as they are durable, lightweight, and easy to install. They can be used to create a variety of signs for branding and advertising – from simple ones to elaborate, multiple panels. Their large and visible surface can be used to display the brand’s message. This is why they are preferred for businesses that want to promote their products or services to a large audience.

Read also: HPL Sheets vs ACP Sheets: Selecting the Right Cladding Material for Your Building

Internal ACP Panels

Internal ACP panels are made with a thinner aluminium sheet with a cost-effective coating. This is why the ACP sheets used for interior purposes are less expensive than the ones used for exterior purposes.

Interior ACP Panel Application using Aludecor ACP sheets

Benefits of Internal ACP Panels

  • Affordable: ACP panels are an affordable option for interior cladding. They are a cost-effective way to improve the look and value of your home or business.
  • Easy to install: ACP panels are easy to install. They can be installed by a professional within a few days of time.
  • Available in a variety of colors, textures, and finishes: ACP panels are available in a variety of colors, textures, and finishes, so you can find the perfect look for your project.
Interior ACP panel application done at Residential Building in Ahmedabad

Applications of Internal ACP Panels

  • False Ceilings: ACP panels can be used to create beautiful and stylish false ceilings. They are available in a variety of colors and finishes, so you can find the perfect look for your space. ACP panels are also easy to install and maintain, making them a great choice for false ceilings.
  • Partition walls: ACP panels can be used to build partition walls that are both attractive and practical. You can choose the ideal style for your room because they come in several colors and finishes. Given their easy installation and maintenance, these panels are an excellent option for creating partition walls for residential and commercial properties. In fact, modern-day design consultants also like to use ACP sheets for doors!
  • Cupboards and furniture: ACP panels can be used to create beautiful and durable cupboards and furniture. They are available in a variety of colors and finishes, so you can find the perfect look for your space. ACP panels are also easy to clean and maintain, making them a great choice for cupboards and furniture. This is particularly interesting when you are planning for new-age kitchen designs.
  • Interior Wall Panels: Choose from the wide selection of ACP sheets complementing the look and feel of your space. The vast range of colors and finishes gives a huge scope to make your space look exactly how you wanted it to be. Simple installation process and low maintenance demands make them an excellent choice for interior wall cladding.
  • Column Covers: What makes ACP panels a great choice for column covers is their flexibility. Not to forget their excellent range of shades, styles and textures; pick your choice of ACP sheet that reflects the finesse of your property design.
  • Table Tops: Possibly one of the most unique applications of ACP panels that can be used to create beautiful and durable table tops. Owing to the wide range availability of colors and finishes, you can create table tops that can match the elegance of the rest of your interior décor.

Read also: How Weather Conditions Affect The Selection of ACP Sheets

Aluminium composite panels (ACP sheets) are a versatile building material that can be used for both exterior and interior applications. However, there are some critical differences between ACP design for the exterior and ACP design for the interior.

Interior ACP Panel application at Bharat Cooperative Bank

Internal ACP Panels vs. External ACP Panels

Parameters Internal ACP Panels External ACP Panels
ACP Panel Thickness Requires 3mm thickness ACP panel. Requires 3mm, 4mm and 6mm thickness panel based on the application.
Aluminium Skin or Coil Thickness Requires 0.20 mm and 0.12 mm thickness or lower than that. Requires 0.5 mm for buildings higher than G+3.
0.25 mm for buildings G+3.
Paint or Coil Coating Uses Polyester or SDP paint To withstand the UV ray, Rain and Dust exterior ACP panels uses PVDF, SDP and FEVE coating.
Grade of Aluminium Skin 1000 Series: AA1100 is used for interiors. 3000 Series: AA3105 and 5000 Series: AA 5005 is used for exteriors.1
Special Features The top coating can be made anti-microbial or insect-free for interior ACP panels. Not Available.
1 AA3105 and AA5005 use is recommended for G+3 buildings. With coil thickness of 0.30 for signages and 0.50 for tall structures.
Wooden ACP Panel Application in Modular Kitchen using Aludecor ACP sheets

Aludecor ACP Panels

Aludecor is a leading manufacturer of ACP panels. We offer a wide range of panels to choose from, including external and internal panels. Our panels are made with high-quality materials and construction and are backed by a warranty. For exteriors, we give a warranty of 10, 15, 20 years, depending on the project.

If you are looking for ACP panels for your next project, contact Aludecor today. We would happily help you choose the right panels for your needs. Contact Aludecor Today at 1800 102 0407 (toll-free) and visit this enquiry page.

Team Aludecor
We are a bunch of enthusiastic Aludecorians with a passion for constant innovation. Supporters of everything new and innovative, we are always on the lookout for the latest developments concerning the architectural fraternity.
Team Aludecor

We are a bunch of enthusiastic Aludecorians with a passion for constant innovation. Supporters of everything new and innovative, we are always on the lookout for the latest developments concerning the architectural fraternity.

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