Cladding is the application of one material over another to provide a skin or layer.
In construction, cladding is used to provide a degree of thermal insulation and weather resistance, and to improve the appearance of buildings. It can be made of a wide range of materials. Tile retailer, Union Tiles, discusses cladding materials and the benefits and characteristics of ventilated and non-ventilated cladding.
Material options
With outlets in most major cities in South Africa and Namibia, Union Tiles has a variety of cladding to choose from, including porcelain, ceramic, terrazzo and natural stone, to name but a few.
The newly launched StoneFlex is a natural stone flexible veneer sheeting, which has shown increasing popularity as a multipurpose surface covering, including exteriors of facades.
Large-format porcelain ranges have gained much interest with their multiple options of design and surface texture to create an aesthetic suited to design needs.
Different approaches
Ventilated and non-ventilated cladding have two different approaches to building facades, each offering unique benefits and characteristics. The choice between ventilated and non-ventilated cladding also depends on factors such as the budget, climate, building design and performance requirements.
- Ventilated cladding is ideal for projects needing thermal and moisture management.
- Non-ventilated cladding is suitable for simpler, cost-effective solutions with quicker installations.
Ventilated cladding
This system involves the installation of a secondary facade with an air gap between the tile layer and the building’s structural wall. It creates a continuous flow of air through the gap, which can improve the building’s overall performance with regards to thermal insulation, moisture control, improved indoor climate, enhanced durability and aesthetic flexibility.
The air gap acts as an insulator, which is reducing heat transfer between the building and the external environment, improving energy efficiency. By regulating the temperature and humidity levels, ventilated cladding contributes to a more comfortable indoor environment. It also allows moisture to escape, preventing condensation and potential water damage to the building’s structure.
The external tile layer protects the building from weather elements, reducing the wear and tear on the primary structural wall, whilst enhancing the building’s aesthetic appeal.
Non-ventilated cladding
Also known as direct-applied tile cladding, non-ventilated cladding involves affixing tiles directly onto the building’s structural wall, without an air gap. This system is simpler and more straightforward in its installation.
Typically, it is less expensive to install due to the reduced complexity and fewer materials required than ventilated cladding, and the process is more straightforward, leading to quicker construction times and lower labour costs. Without the need for an air gap, non-ventilated cladding requires less space, which can be beneficial for buildings with limited external space.
Direct application can add an additional layer of structural strength to the building’s external wall.
Achieve the aesthetics, thermal insulation and weather resistance of cladding by considering product materials, and the benefits and characteristics of ventilated and non-ventilated cladding.
For more information, contact Union Tiles:
Tel: +27 011 663 2000
Email: info@uniontiles.co.za
Website: www.uniontiles.co.za
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