Aluminum Composite Panel (ACP) for Roofing – Pros & Cons

What is ACP ?

Aluminium Composite Panel (ACP) is a lightweight panel consisting of two aluminium sheets bonded to a core material.

While ACP is widely used for building facades and signboards, it is also commonly used in Malaysia for awning roofs and canopy roofing, especially for:

  • Shoplot entrances

  • Building awnings

  • Walkway covers

  • Modern canopy designs

Decorative roofing panels
 

Advantages of ACP for Roofing

1. Modern & Premium Appearance

ACP provides a smooth and seamless finish, making it ideal for projects where appearance matters.

ACP is available in many finishes such as:

  • solid colors

  • metallic finishes

  • wood grain

This allows designers to create modern architectural roofing designs.
 

2. Lightweight Material

Compared to traditional roofing materials, ACP panels are very lightweight.

Typical weight:

  • approximately 3–7 kg per square meter

Because of this, ACP roofing:

  • reduces structural load

  • allows lighter framing structures

  • is easier to install
     

3. Easy to Fabricate & Shape

ACP panels can be easily:

  • cut

  • bent

  • folded
  • grooved


This flexibility allows contractors to create custom canopy shapes and curved roofing designs.

This is one of the main reasons ACP is widely used for awning roofing systems.

 

4. Weather Resistant

High-quality ACP panels are coated with PVDF or polyester coating, providing resistance against:

  • UV exposure

  • rain

  • corrosion

This makes ACP suitable for Malaysia’s hot and humid climate.

 

5. Low Maintenance

ACP roofing panels require minimal maintenance compared to painted surfaces.

They are:

  • easy to clean

  • resistant to stains

  • long lasting when properly installed
     

Limitations of ACP Roofing

1. Not Suitable for Large Span Roofing

ACP is generally used for awnings or decorative roofing, not large roof spans like factory roofs.

For larger roofs, materials like:

  • metal deck roofing

  • PU metal roofing

are more suitable.

 

2. Installation Quality is Important

Although ACP panels themselves are weather resistant, improper installation may lead to water leakage.

Proper installation should include:

  • correct framing structure

  • adequate joint spacing

  • proper sealing using silicone

Working with experienced installers is recommended.
 

Common ACP Roofing Applications

ACP roofing is commonly used for:

shoplot awnings
entrance canopy roofing
walkway covers
decorative architectural roofing
commercial building awnings

It is especially suitable for projects where visual appearance is as important as functionality.

 

Mar 13,2026