ACP vs Zinc Composite Panel - Which Cladding Material is Right?

Reviewed by VIVA ACP Technical Team · Updated November 2026

VIVA manufactures both Aluminium Composite Panels and Zinc Composite Panels, each serving different architectural visions. While ACP offers India's widest colour range at competitive pricing, VIVA's Zinc Composite Panel range, AluZinto, elZinc Rainbow, and elZinc Alkimi, delivers the distinctive zinc patina aesthetic for premium architectural projects. This comparison helps architects choose the right VIVA product for their facade design.

3 ACP Wins

0 Zinc Composite Panel Wins

5 Tie

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Detailed Comparison: ACP vs Zinc Composite Panel

Parameter	ACP (VIVA)	Zinc Composite Panel	Winner
Base Metal	Aluminium skins	Zinc-aluminium alloy skins	Tie
Cost Range	₹65-200/sq.ft	₹180-400/sq.ft	ACP ✓
Patina Effect	Consistent factory colour	Natural patina develops over time	Tie
Design Options	500+ shades, all finishes	Limited - zinc tones, patina effects	ACP ✓
Expected Lifespan	25+ years	40-80 years	Tie
Sustainability	Recyclable aluminium	100% recyclable, self-healing surface	Tie
Weight per sqm	5.5 kg/sqm	6-7 kg/sqm	ACP ✓
Market Segment	Commercial, residential, all segments	Premium architectural, green buildings	Tie

When to Choose ACP Over Zinc Composite Panel

Standard ACP is the right choice for most commercial and residential projects requiring diverse colour options, cost-effective large-area cladding, and proven performance. ACP's 500+ shade range covers virtually any design requirement.

When Zinc Composite Panel Might Be Better

Zinc Composite Panels (VIVA elZinc series) are ideal for premium architectural projects seeking the distinctive zinc patina aesthetic, green building projects requiring 100% recyclable materials, and landmark buildings where the self-healing zinc surface and 80-year lifespan justify the premium investment.

Expert Verdict

Both ACP and Zinc Composite Panels are manufactured by VIVA - making them complementary products, not competitors. Standard ACP is the volume choice for cost-effective, colourful facades while VIVA's AluZinto, elZinc Rainbow, and elZinc Alkimi series target premium architects seeking zinc's distinctive living patina. Consult VIVA's technical team to determine the ideal combination for your project.

VIVA Panels to Look At

If ACP looks like the right fit, these are the VIVA ranges to start with. Each page shows the shades, sizes and coatings available.

Test Reports and Certifications

These are the reports a consultant or fire officer usually asks for. Each one can be downloaded from our download centre.

Fire Safety Tests

7 Star FR A2 and FR B panels tested by Thomas Bell-Wright to EN 13501-1, NFPA 285 and ASTM E84

FR A2 4mm panels tested by Emirates Safety Laboratory

Aluminium honeycomb panel rated A1 to BS EN 13501

Green Building

EPD International, IGBC, GRIHA, CII GreenPro

Fire Test Certificates Quality and Green Certificates

Need the datasheet and test reports for a tender or fire NOC? We can send the right set for your project. Request Datasheet and Reports

FAQs - ACP vs Zinc Composite Panel

What is a zinc composite panel?

It is a composite panel with zinc-based skins instead of aluminium. Zinc develops a natural patina over time, which gives the facade a soft, changing look that many architects like for landmark buildings.

Is zinc composite better than ACP?

Neither is better in every case. Zinc suits premium projects that want the zinc look and very long life. ACP is lighter, costs less and comes in far more colours and finishes.

Does VIVA make zinc composite panels?

Yes. VIVA offers zinc composite panels, including the elZinc range, alongside its ACP and AlZinc series.

Which is easier to recycle?

Both aluminium and zinc are recyclable metals, so either choice can support a green building target. VIVA also holds EPD, IGBC and GRIHA related certifications.