What is cladding?
Cladding is a material used to provide a decorative and protective skin on a building.
With construction methods in mind, cladding uses wall anchors, infills or other more complex methods such as curtain wall installation to ‘fix’ it to a building’s exterior It can be made of wood, stone, or concrete, and although it doesn't support the structure, it does protect against elements like wind or rain.
What is a fascade?
A facade is the main exterior design of a building – usually the front section which faces an open space or street. If you imagine a typical office, hotel or commercial building, the entrance side – which is most often the street-facing side – is the facade. When we talk about a facade, we are generally referring to the external appearance of the building, including its design, colour, style, material and texture.
Why is cladding used?
The purpose of cladding is to protect a building's structure from natural elements like wind and rain. Still, it can have other benefits, such as insulation and noise control, and it can boost the aesthetic appeal of a building
What are the different types of cladding?
Cladding is available in several different materials, each of which has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Timber cladding:
Often chosen for its unique and natural aesthetic appeal, timber is one of the most expensive cladding materials. It is usually manufactured in long, narrow sheets of wood that can be fitted vertically, horizontally, or diagonally. Due to is diverse design variations and natural appearance, timber cladding is quite often the most decorative available.
A major advantage of timber cladding is that, when sourced sustainably, it can reduce carbon emissions and cut the total carbon footprint of a building. This is because timber continues to act as a carbon store after the tree is felled. Timber, being an excellent insulator, can also retain lots of heat, reducing the need for heating systems during colder months.
Stone cladding:
Stone has been used in the construction industry for thousands of years, having long been recognised as a material of superior durability and great artistic quality. Stone cladding is a popular choice in modern construction, providing a simple way to create the unique look of stone without the complexities of stone wall construction.
The generally non-porous properties of stone cladding keep buildings protected from rain and other elements. Stone cladding is also easy to maintain in comparison to other materials.
Vinyl/PVC cladding:
Vinyl/PVC cladding is cheap and offers a contemporary finish. Usually manufactured in rectangular strips or sheets, vinyl cladding comes in dozens of different colours and has proven energy efficiency. It’s also possible to customise it with an additional layer of insulation which can help to maintain the internal temperature of a building.
Vinyl cladding is generally lightweight and light on the budget, although its use in the commercial space is limited.
Glass cladding:
Glass cladding is one of the most commonly used cladding systems in modern commercial office and retail buildings. It offers significant visual satisfaction and an ultramodern appearance, as well as being highly effective at providing thermal insulation and weather resistance.
Generally, glass cladding is made of tempered or vitrified glass which is weather resistant, easy to maintain and can withstand high levels of force. The major downsides with glass cladding are its very high cost and complexity of installation which often requires complex systems and methods to secure it safely in place.
Brick cladding:
External brick cladding imitates a brick wall, using accurately shaded patterns and colours of bricks and joints. Manufactured in prefabricated panels, brick cladding is generally easy to install and cost effective, as well as being robust and weather resistant. Brick cladding also requires minimal maintenance in comparison to other cladding materials
Fibre cement cladding:
Combining the best of science and nature, fibre cement cladding is a composite material made of cement, cellulose, sand and synthetic fibres. It is extremely durable, extremely flexible and generally easy to install.
Metal cladding:
Metal cladding is one of the most commonly used materials in industrial commercial building construction. Available in steel, aluminium and sometimes zinc variations, metal cladding is non-combustible, recyclable, affordable and simple to install because of its large and lightweight panels. Metal cladding is often found at industrial and warehouse sites as well as farms and rural locations, although its use in the construction of modern office buildings has become more popular in recent years.
What are the types of cladding installation?
There are various types of cladding installation system, each of which has its own unique merits.
Attached system:
Most cladding is prefabricated into panels. In an attached cladding system, exterior prefabricated cladding panels are connected directly to the structural frame of the building. Cladding is fixed to the building by lifting it in place, using an anchorage or fastening to keep it secure.
The attached system takes less time to install than other systems, making the construction process quick and simple by comparison. As well as offering simplicity in construction, the attached system provides insulation and protects the building’s structural frame against the elements.
Curtain wall system:
For large and multi-storied buildings, a curtain wall system offers many benefits. The frame of the curtain wall is attached to the building’s structure and does not carry the floor or roof loads.
While the curtain wall system is similar to attached system, the difference lies in how cladding panels are erected. Curtain wall systems are non-structural cladding systems comprising of a lightweight frame on which glazed or opaque panels are attached. The curtain wall system is most typically used in the construction of metal or glass facades.
Infill system:
The infill cladding system is used with a form of cladding built between the structural framework of a building. The structural frame provides support for the cladding system, and the cladding provides separation of the internal and external environments. The infill system is different to other forms of cladding system in that it is fixed between frame of the building rather than being attached to the outside of the frame.
Stone and brick cladding finishes often use the infill cladding system. However, with a little added nuance, glass and precast concrete can also be effectively implemented with this system.
Which type of cladding is best?
It depends on the climate and weather conditions in your area.
If you need a roof that is resistant to fire, wind, and water, then metal or composite cladding is a good option. If you live in a hot and humid climate, then plastic cladding is the best choice.
How much does cladding cost?
Cladding can be a relatively affordable option compared to other roofing materials.
It is also a lightweight option, which makes it easier to install. However, the cost of cladding may vary depending on the type and size of the building.
Overall, cladding is a good investment for business owners and property managers who need a durable and weatherproof roofing material
How long does a commercial roof last?
No roof lasts forever. However, the life of any given roof can be impacted by myriad factors. The ideal lifespan for any roof is 20 years, but not all commercial roofs “live” to see their 20th birthday. During an inspection, experienced roofing professionals can give a fairly accurate assessment, but they cannot provide guarantees and they cannot predict unforeseen events like major storms, freak accidents, neglect from building operators, or an unplanned uptick in activity on the roof. An experienced commercial roofer can provide a relatively accurate estimate of how much life your roof has left, broken down into the following ranges:
The best way to keep a handle on the health of a roof is to have an experienced roof inspector conduct regular inspections.
How much will a new roof cost?
Commercial roofing systems are not inexpensive, but cost estimates can range significantly and are based on a number of factors, including:
A new roof can cost hundreds of thousands of pounds depending on its size, but the only way to get an accurate estimate is to have a roofing contractor assess the situation first-hand.
A new roof isn’t in the budget. Can a leak be patched?
Yes, you can patch leaks in a roof. However, patches don’t always solve the root cause of a leak, and they won’t correct the damage caused by the leak. If, for example, water has gotten into the insulation layers of the roof, no patch job in the world will save it.
Any time a roof leaks, a professional should be called to locate the leak, diagnose the root cause, assess the damage and recommend a solution. Repairs can often be made, but the only way to determine the effectiveness of a repair is to work with an expert and to invest in regular roofing maintenance.
If you suspect your building needs a new roof, get an inspector there before annual budgets are set, so that money, time and other resources can be allotted for the project.
How can I tell when my roof is in need of repair or replacement?
Leaks are the most obvious sign that a roof is in need of repair or possibly a replacement. However, there are other clues and cues that can indicate that repairs are in order. If the roof changes in appearance in some way from one inspection to the next, a call to a roofer is in order to diagnose the cause.
Regular roofing inspections are the key to staying out in front of repairs. In the same way that people visit the doctor for regular check ups in order to spot potential problems early, commercial roofing inspections and regularly scheduled roofing maintenance will help the roof maintain its integrity for as long as possible.
What documentation should I keep on hand?
Just as you might file away maintenance records for your car or your home, building staff should always file regular roofing maintenance records, starting with the design plans. When there is an issue with the roofing system, documentation will help the contractor find the issue, properly diagnose it and develop an effective solution.
When the facilities team does regular, in-house inspections of the roof, photographs can help keep a record of the way things look. Any potential defects or damage should be photographed and given to the roofing contractor, along with detailed directions on where to find that damage/defect. When taking photographs, always make accompanying notes. For example, “this is a wrinkle in the membrane two feet to the left of the access hatch.” That way, the next time an inspection is done, the wrinkle can be monitored for any changes.
I think I’ve spotted damage on my roof. What should I do?
Any time someone steps on the roof and they think they have spotted damage, defects, weaknesses or potential problems, they should document the location of the issue and the facilities manager should be notified so that he or she can call on a roofing contractor. Time is of the essence when it comes to roofing. Any amount of water that leaks through will accelerate the deterioration process.
Do I really need to call a professional any time my roof leaks?
Yes! Any time water is spotted inside the building, a call to a roofing professional is in order. There are any number of reasons roofs leak, and the only way to stop it from happening again and to understand the extent of the damage is to get an expert on the roof to examine the situation.
When it comes to leaks, damage is almost always the culprit, but workmanship can also be an issue. And when there is one workmanship defect, there are often more. Say, for example, one skylight out of 30 begins to leak and the inspection reveals it is a workmanship defect. That means that the 29 other skylights most likely need the same repair to prevent them from leaking and causing further, major damage to the roof system. When you see a leak or signs of a leak, it’s better to call immediately than to wait for another issue to arise.
No two roofing projects are ever the same. Each roof has unique strengths and weaknesses. The best way to ensure the longest life possible is to partner with an experienced roofing contractor that has a successful track record of working with buildings similar in design and structure, and have them develop a plan for regular roofing maintenance.
How does rain run off a flat roof?
Flat roofs are generally built with a slight incline so that rain water can drain away into the gutters. Basically flat roofs aren’t always absolutely flat.
How do I maintain my flat roof and what should I inspect?
Inspect the roof twice a year in March and November – ideally soon after rain or snow so you can check that the water is draining away. Before you attempt any inspection ensure that access is safe. If you’re unsure of the condition of the deck do not step on the roof. If you do need to step on the roof use a sheet of OSB3 or Plywood to distribute your weight evenly.
My flat roof is leaking. Can it be repaired, or do I need a whole new roof
If it’s obvious what’s caused the leak, and the rest of the roof is okay, then a minor repair is probably okay. This sort of random patching up isn’t guaranteed though. That said, if the whole roof is in poor condition, or you need a warranty, then a full replacement (or possibly an ‘overlay’ – see below) is the best thing to do.
How do I find a reputable contractor?
Asking around for local roofers with a good reputation in the area is a good place to start. Ensuring they are members of the appropriate trade association or the Competent Roofer scheme is also advisable.
What do I need to consider when replacing or repairing my roof?
I have several quotes, some mentioning ‘Pour-and-Roll’, others suggesting ‘Torching-on’. What’s the difference?
Pour-and Roll is the traditional method of laying bitumen membranes. It uses hot bitumen from a boiler poured onto the layer below as an adhesive for the membrane. This is then rolled onto it. Products designed for torching-on have special bitumen on the lower surface of the membrane, which is heat-activated and melted using a large & powerful gas torch. The membrane is then rolled onto the softened bitumen. Note: It isn’t a good idea to apply a torch flame to any flammable surface (e.g. plywood, timber edgings, below the edge of a pitched tiled roof, etc.) The torch flame can reach 1000 degrees C. Please be aware that the contractor’s insurance will not cover fires caused in this way – and neither will your own home insurance.
The contractor wants me to put insulation onto my roof – do I need to? If so, where does it go?
Thermal Insulation reduces heat loss through the roof, and saves energy during the winter. It also keeps your house cooler and more comfortable in the summer. This is now a requirement of Building Regulations (Part L:2006). If you are putting up a new building or a new extension, or you’re repairing or replacing more than 25% of an existing flat roof area, then YES – you do need to upgrade by including a layer of thermal insulation.
I’ve got ponding on my existing roof. Do I need to replace the roof?
Not unless it is leaking, or showing other signs of damage. If and when you do have it replaced, you should tell the contractor so they can check the cause of the ponding, and itemise the cost of dealing with it in their estimate.
I have just had my roof replaced, and it is still ponding where it used to. Why?
Unless the contractor was told about the ponding they are unlikely to have quoted for changing the falls. This would have meant removing the decking, placing firring pieces (wedge-shaped timber strips) on the joists, and re-fixing the old deck or a brand new one, before installing the new waterproofing system. This could have doubled the cost of the job. The decking might have deteriorated and sagged between the joists, in which case it should ideally have been replaced.
I have had a new roof put on and I am not happy with it. What should I do?
Your first point of contact should be with the contractor, who should be able to explain what he has done, and why. If not, then you need to talk to an independent expert who will be able to advise you.
My quotation contains a reference to re-decking. Can you tell me what this means?
The deck of your roof is the layer of plywood or OSB3, which goes over the joists to support the insulation and membranes. Where this is damaged or is a part of the waterproofing system, you’ll need to replace it. This is known as re-decking. The contractor should be able to give you a price for the work.
I am told the contractor can ‘overlay’ my roof. What does this entail, and is it advisable?
In many cases the existing roof is sound, and the membrane is simply getting old. If so, the contractor might advise you not to expose the building structure to the elements while he strips off the old membranes. Instead you leave them in place to act as a base layer for a new system. This is known as overlaying the roof. As long as there are no other problems such as condensation or damaged decking, then overlaying is perfectly acceptable. There are a number of products available on the market you can use.
What guarantee/warranty should I expect?
Material warranties usually come from the waterproofing layer manufacturers, and are handed over by the contractor when you pay. Depending on the materials used, this could be for 5, 10, 15 or 20 years. If the contractor is on the manufacturer’s select list, this could also cover the workmanship. Always read the small print to see what’s included.
What are the main methods of waterproofing on a domestic residence?
Pour and roll: hot bitumen is poured in front of the felt as it is unrolled, and acts as the adhesive and seals the laps. Torching: in this method, specially designed felt is heated with a gas torch and no separate bonding bitumen is needed. This is best suited to repair work, small areas, or where access to the roof is difficult. The contractor must take precautions against fire. Torching is not suitable over or adjacent to flammable materials. Self-adhesive: the undersides of these membranes include a high-tack adhesive and release paper. Once positioned, the release paper is peeled off, and the membrane stuck down to the substrate. They are not suitable for laying over uneven surfaces or in cold conditions. They require rolling, or a soft broom applied over the whole area to help stick them down fully. Liquid Roofing and GRP Roofing : this is a cold applied system so you don’t need hot bitumen or gas torches. The waterproofing layer is built up by brushing or spraying liquid in a number of layers to provide a waterproof layer once the coatings have cured. Often a mesh or fabric is used as part of the build up to add strength and flexibility.
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