EQUITONE Rainscreen panels, also known as ventilated cladding systems, are an important part of the building envelope which can significantly improve its long-term durability and performance.
Not only that, the versatility and wide range of attractive colours, textures and finishes offer architects immense design possibilities that can transform the appearance of a building.
Designed for high performance
EQUITONE Rainscreen façades are made up of fibre cement cladding panels on the exterior, fixed onto a timber or metal framing system to provide a cavity for ventilation in between the cladding and the load-bearing wall.
The cladding acts as a shield to protect the building envelope against the wind, rain, frost and UV rays. Depending on the nature of the joints between the panels, some water penetration may occur. The air gap and airtight backing wall combine to limit this penetration, and the cavity space can evaporate or drain this moisture away safely, thereby extending the service life of the building.
As the cavity allows the air to circulate, any moisture evaporates via a process known as the ‘stack’ effect. This allows the movement of air into and out of buildings and directs cooler breezes into the building while expelling hot air, which reduces the build-up of dampness that can be so damaging to a building’s fabric.
When installed with the insulation on the outer face of the structure, it results in a number of benefits for the building, notably:
• In winter time it keeps the building warm and the cold air is prevented from affecting the building structure.
• In summer the ventilated facade has a cooling effect when outside temperatures are high.
• Most of the sun’s rays are reflected away from the building.
• Heat that passes through the panel is partially dissipated by the ventilating effect in the cavity.
• An additional benefit of controlling temperature is that the structural movement of the building is minimised.
Designed for healthier buildings
The systems and materials used in buildings can positively impact the living and working environments of their occupants.
EQUITONE Rainscreen system contributes to regulating the temperature of a building.
The continuous air circulation is also very efficient at controlling condensation, which helps reduce the risk of unhealthy mould or mildew growth. Learn more on our Ventilated façades blog.
Designed for safer buildings
Fire safety is a fundamental part of the new Building Safety Act. Architects are responsible for the planning and execution of safety measures and the choice of suitable materials.
All EQUITONE panels have an A2-s1, d0 fire rating. This means they are suitable to use as part of a rainscreen façade system on a majority of buildings including high-rise projects.
Designed for low-carbon buildings
EQUITONE are proud to manufacture the only fibre cement rainscreen panels on the market with Bronze Level Cradle to Cradle certification.
Unlike other standards, Cradle to Cradle focuses on all factors relating to a product’s entire life cycle, from its sourcing and manufacturing through to its recyclability. It also considers social fairness and human health within its criteria. Discover more here.
Freedom of design
EQUITONE rainscreen façades can be easily shaped, cut, perforated or milled, making them a highly practical option for both new build and refurbishment projects.
Deeply mindful of how colour, texture and aesthetic qualities of building materials can help shape and influence our environments and communities, EQUITONE materials are manufactured in a wide range of contemporary-coloured finishes.
These can be sleek and smooth-faced or in raw matt textures that mirror the feel of natural materials - all designed to help you create beautiful architecture.
Benefits of a Rainscreen Facade CPD
Discover more about rainscreen façades, in our stimulating RIBA-accredited CPD seminar. The session covers the design, principles and benefits of specifying rainscreen facades. Click here to get all the info and book.