Aluminium’s unique properties put it among our most versatile and cost-effective engineering and construction materials, making it today’s number-one choice for modern, sustainable – and tough – skirting boards.
Himmel’s Aluminium Skirting and Geometric range support a variety of architectural profiles for the interior commercial landscape from screw-on and flat bar skirting, to angles, sections and channels. Manufactured from high-grade, powdercoated aluminium, Himmel’s aluminium skirting is synonymous with design, performance and sustainability – the perfect choice for any demanding commercial environment.
Benefits of Himmel aluminium skirting
So, what sets aluminium apart and makes it the most trusted solution for skirting boards in the commercial design space? In this comprehensive article, you’ll learn why aluminium is unrivalled when it comes to:
- Durability
- Maintenance
- Versatility
- Sustainability
- Cost-effectiveness
- Aesthetics
Durable in high traffic environments
Aluminium’s resistance to corrosion, decay, stains and general wear-and-tear makes it extremely tough and long-lasting – even in the harshest interior commercial environments. For example:
- Hospitals
- Schools
- Commercial offices
- Restaurant kitchens
- Supermarkets
- Salons
- Laboratories
Aluminium skirting’s unique composition ensures it will stand the test of time against heavy footwear, furniture, cleaners, trolleys and contaminants – without the need for frequent repairs or replacement.
Its natural ability to produce a protective oxide film is reinforced by clear anodising to form a hard coating, which is even more resistant to wear and corrosion, especially in aggressive industrial environments.
This is why, at Himmel, we take pride in our 10-year warranty period on all aluminium extrusions supplied by Himmel Interior Systems.
Aluminium skirting vs wood skirting
Traditionally, wood may have been the most popular material used for skirting, but there are now many compelling reasons to opt for aluminium.
Maintenance
Whereas aluminium skirting is virtually maintenance-free, wood skirting requires painting, staining and sealing from the outset – and regular attention afterwards – to preserve its appearance and structural integrity. The consequence of failing to do so could mean deterioration and costly repairs in the future.
Cleanliness and hygiene
Aluminium is non-toxic and because it’s non-porous, it won’t absorb moisture or harbour bacteria. Additionally, its smooth surface allows for quick and thorough cleaning, making it the perfect choice for environments in which hygiene and cleanliness are paramount for patient or consumer safety, such as healthcare facilities, food processing plants, kitchens, and laboratories.
Durability and cost-efficiency
While the initial cost of aluminium skirting may be slightly higher than wood, its long-term cost-effectiveness far outweighs the upfront investment. Aluminium is highly resistant to moisture and harsh temperatures, so it won’t warp, crack or fade. Its durability and resistance to damage, along with the need for minimal maintenance and a significantly longer lifespan, result in fewer repairs and replacements, and lower lifecycle costs over time.
Design appeal
For a contemporary look that offers seamless continuity between floors and walls, aluminium skirting complements today’s design trends. Himmel offers a range of profiles in clear anodised, and powdercoated black or white finishes. To make it easy for designers to balance the aesthetic of their space with clean, sleek lines, Himmel also offers a custom colour service.
Versatility
Aluminium is lightweight compared to materials such as wood or stone, making it easier to handle and install. This can reduce installation time and labour costs.
Pests
Unlike wood, the metal composition of aluminium provides a barrier from pests such as termites or wood-boring insects. Not only does this ensure the skirting remains intact and structurally sound over time, it also enables a pest-free environment.
Fire protection
Aluminium is non-combustible, which means it does not burn. This makes aluminium skirting the safer option for buildings, reducing the risk of fire damage and enhancing overall safety.
Sustainability
Aluminium is highly resource-efficient compared to wood. By opting for aluminium skirting, you are better placed to meet your project’s sustainability targets while enjoying the benefits of a durable and long-lasting material. Factors to consider:
- Longer lifespan than wood products
- No need for environmentally harsh chemical treatments to protect it
- Abundance reduces environmental impacts such as deforestation and ecosystem degradation
- Production consumes less energy compared to wood processing
- 100% recyclable compared to limited recycling potential of wood, some of which ends in landfill
Aluminium skirting sizes & installation
Versatility, speed and precision during installation as well as a range of colour choices make aluminium the go-to material for skirting in any commercial design or construction project.
Sizing
Himmel’s aluminium skirting is available in flat bar or screw-on options in 25mm, 50mm, 100mm and 150mm profiles, which can easily be customised to fit any specific design requirements, architectural styles and installation needs.
Colour
When it comes to colour, we have the flexibility to work with you on your specific project requirements.
Our aluminium skirting comes in clear anodised, powdercoated black or pearl white finishes, with custom colours also available. Using the extensive range of Dulux Duralloy® powdercoat colours, you are guaranteed to find the perfect match for your next project.
Perfect companion to Himmel aluminium partition suites
As architects, engineers and construction professionals evolve with today’s design trends, Himmel recognises the need for flexible workspaces to provide individuals and teams a space for confidential discussions, or an area where hands-on training sessions will have minimal impact and disruption to neighbouring workers.
Our innovative partition systems support, inspire and enable teams to collaborate, share knowledge, learn together, build, innovate and succeed.
Our aluminium skirting completes this sleek look. Both Himmel aluminium partition suites and skirting have been innovated by Himmel Interior Systems in Australia to make design and installation simple, streamlined – and sophisticated.
Sustainable & cost-efficient skirting
Aluminium, derived from bauxite ore, which is naturally abundant and widely available, is 100% recyclable, making it an eco-friendly skirting material that aligns with sustainable building practices.
Aluminium has been recycled since it was first commercially produced and today, recycled aluminium counts for one-third of global consumption worldwide.
Cost-effective
Aluminium is one of the cheapest metals or materials to recycle, requiring only a fraction of the energy needed to produce virgin aluminium.
Because aluminium products retain value even at the end of their useful life, it is possible to continue to create value by recycling them into new products.
Thus, by opting for aluminium skirting, designers and builders can contribute to reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, and ultimately save money.
Declare Living Building Challenge – helping you make the most sustainable design decisions
Did you know you can make the right aluminium product choices when designing and specifying for your projects by selecting aluminium products that have their ingredients documented with Declare?
Declare Labels provide a clear and informative ‘nutrition label’ for building products by answering three simple questions:
- Where does a product come from?
- What is it made of?
- Where does it go at the end of its life?
Leaders in sustainability
As part of Himmel and CSR’s relentless quest for sustainability leadership in the construction industry, Himmel aluminium can be recycled repeatedly without loss of quality.
Declare aligns with Himmel’s commitment to transparency in support of the Living Building Challenge’s Red List and Appropriate Sourcing Products in the Himmel aluminium range.
Expert design & installation advice
Need product guidance or a sample?
Get your copy of our latest Product Guide featuring our innovative range of decorative and acoustic solutions – including aluminium skirting – for all your commercial fitout needs.
Get in touch with our team
Our experienced team of account managers offers technical advice to architects, designers, specifiers and engineers. And our CSR DesignLINK team members are available to provide technical support on major projects.
