Details
 

Researcher:	Zhihong Liao David Metcalfe
Funded:	DTI PII programme/industry
Total value:	£99,550
Lead partner:	CWCT
Partners:	Sandberg Permasteelisa
Status:	Current

Introduction:

Cladding design is changing rapidly in response to ever tightening thermal requirements imposed in Part L of the Building Regulations. There is a high risk that solutions will be developed that address thermal insulation to the detriment of other aspects of performance such as condensation formation and overall integrity.

Innovative approaches to cladding are needed while underpinning sound design. The project will consider trends in cladding design and analyse possible solutions for both thermal performance and robustness.
 

Objectives:

The objective of this work is to provide guidance on solutions, analytical techniques and other methods of evaluation that will promote improved walls whilst guarding against false solutions. The principal output from the project will be a hard copy publication and CD available to the public – a guide to improving façade design and particularly façade components. This will concentrate on weaknesses of current designs, options for improvements and potential pitfalls.

The construction types to be considered will include:

• Curtain walling
• Rainscreen
• Punched windows
• Insulated panels

• Thicker insulation materials
• Alternative materials
• Removal/reduction of metal components
• Cladding and thermal shielding of components

• Structural integrity
• Thermal and acoustic performance
• Durability
• Buildability