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EXTERNAL ENVELOPE
key driver for many specifiers. While it ticks the sustainability box from the outset, when we talk to architects during the initial stages of a project, we are always mindful of the ‘price-aesthetic- performance’ paradigm. Every specification decision is a balancing act between these three competing considerations. In our experience metal, especially aluminium cladding, scores highly here. Texture is another important aspect of aluminium cladding that is often overlooked. Working with our trusted coatings partners, we can produce metal facades that exhibit stone-like effects, so that tactile stone or GRC facades can be used at the bottom of buildings, while lightweight aluminium can be employed higher up the structure.
More cladding manufacturers are exploring the prospect of reverse logistics – to facilitate re-use and recycling in the sector
architects – and the more nuanced appreciation of materials appropriate for high (i.e. above 18 metres) and low-rise buildings, we are seeing a return to facades made from high pressure laminates (HPL). While demand for this type of product saw a significant drop in the aftermath of Grenfell, seven years later we are seeing this type of product being used on specific applications, most notably educational buildings or commercial developments up to three storeys in height. Several years ago, the market faced challenges of under-supply of certain facade products, due to specifiers citing only A1 rated cladding, when A2 alternatives were well within safety and performance parameters. It’s encouraging to see that a more balanced view has been restored, which can only be supported by the recent Department for Education document (December 2023) which clearly states that A2-s1, d0 rated panels are perfectly acceptable on school buildings of up to 18 metres above ground. We have seen a surge in demand for HPL within the education sector – with recent projects including South Wolds Academy in Nottinghamshire and Parmiter’s School in Hertfordshire. Another good example of the creative use of HPL can be seen at the Ashford Mental Health Unit in Southampton. This demonstrates the juxtaposition of colours and the use of precision cut boards to create real visual impact.
The relatively low cost of aluminium compared to other facade materials is a
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Given the rise in biophilia – the use of more natural materials in buildings – we are even seeing aluminium facades maintaining ‘share of spec’ here, as architects play with the use of metals next to materials such as wood and stone. This is a major trend we are seeing in building design that looks set to take off over the next few years.
Fibre cement products as well as glass reinforced concrete solutions (GRC) find favour with architects looking for a wood or stone-like aesthetic without the associated issues of fire rating, weight, or cost.
While fibre cement products can create a strong, stone-like look, GRC is being discovered by architects as a creative facade medium, used for curved facade details, columns and window surrounds.
Sustainable futures
Sustainability continues to be a major consideration for architects when specifying rainscreen facades. We are certainly seeing responsible manufacturers making strides in this area, looking at production processes, re-use and recycling wherever possible. More cladding manufacturers are exploring the prospect of reverse logistics to facilitate re-use and recycling – something that we are ideally placed to support given our nationwide presence. Cladding, be it metal, cement, concrete, terracotta or laminate, is stepping up to the environmental challenge and has come of age as a building material of the future.
Andy Thomas is trading director at Vivalda Group
ADF JUNE 2024
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