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How to Repair Damaged ACM Panels?

The ideal solution for many construction applications, Aluminum Composite Material (ACM) panels are extremely robust despite their lightweight structure; this allows flexibility in both the use and application of the ACM panels.

With ACM panels, you can complete even the most challenging of construction projects; this is because the panels can be customized to fit any shape you need. This ability to customize ACM panels is a major reason they have so many applications; some of these include flooring, ceilings, wall claddings, interior décor, and signage.

While ACM panels are incredibly strong and flexible, they can get damaged. The severity of damage will determine if and how a repair needs to be performed on the damaged ACM panels. Following are some common types of damages to panels and the most appropriate ways to fix them.

1. Minor Dents or Scratches on the ACM Panel

There is no need to repair the ACM panel if the damage to it is only aesthetic and is not visible from a distance which is less than or equal to 8 inches from the location of the panel. The panel’s moisture and thermal performance will not be affected by these minor dents or scratches so you can avoid repairing them if you want.

2. Scratches that Penetrate the Galvalume or Galvanized Coating

These scratches to the ACM panel can be fixed with a few touch-ups. That’s all that’s needed to repair the panel.

3. Severely Dented Panel Face

If you notice severe dents on the face of the ACM panel, then you must repair this damage as soon as possible. You have several options to do this including overlaying with a new panel skin or using a localized patch. If this doesn’t work, then you should simply replace the panel.

4. Paint Damage

This is an aesthetic issue caused by damage to the top coat of the panel; this damage does not penetrate to the galvalume or galvanized base coating. Due to the variances in gloss between the field and factory-applied coating, it is difficult to touch up this type of paint damage.

However, the same weathering characteristics as the factory-applied paint will have to be present in the coating that is used to perform paint damage repairs. While there are differences in the glass between the field and factory-applied coating, a general rule of thumb is that the finishes should blend extremely well. Just like in the case of minor scratches or dents to the ACM panel, the panel moisture and thermal performance will not be affected by touchup to its face.

Final Word

A certain level of skill and care is needed to successfully repair damaged ACM panels. The quality of the repair will determine if the repair will be noticeable to the naked eye or not. While you can try to fix damage to ACM panels on your own, the best thing to do would be letting an experienced professional perform the repair. This will save you from unnecessary headaches and additional costs.

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