How Ventilated Cladding Enhances Building Durability
Ventilated cladding systems are an effective way of protecting the building envelope against the wind and driving rain in those areas of Ireland where the climate is particularly changeable.
At the same time, it also helps to improve thermal efficiency, fire and acoustic protection whilst extending the life of the building.
The concept goes back to the 1950s, when a double-leaf structure appeared in Scandinavia. Known as the ‘open joint barn technique’, it was used to construct timber barns to reduce moisture damage to stored hay and grain by encouraging natural ventilation.
EQUITONE’s modern vented systems work on similar principles. They consist of an outer protective rainscreen barrier attached to an inner well-insulated load-bearing wall with a cavity in-between.
The key is the air gap which acts just like a chimney stack.
The Role of the Stack Effect in Moisture Control
The vented cladding system is built around rising warm air creating an upward draft that pulls in cooler air from below. This is known as the ‘stack effect.’
This constant upward air movement carries away any moisture from inside the cavity and any condensation that could potentially lead to a build-up of mould or mildew or the degradation of the existing structure. Any water that enters through the open top will just run down the inside of the decorative panels and drain away at the base of the wall.
The air gap also acts as additional insulation slowing down heat transfer from the outside the building. In the summer the updraught of air helps dissipate the heat and, in the winter, the cold air trapped within the cavity slows down heat loss from inside the building.
The Advantages of Open Joints in Ventilated Cladding for Irish Buildings
A key feature of ventilated wall cladding is its open joints. Instead of bonding the outer rainscreen panels tightly together, which could result in condensation building up, an air gap of 8-12mm is left open.
An additional, but significant benefit is that the pressure of the strong winds such as those on the West Coast of Ireland blowing against the front of a ventilated façade can further boost air circulation and the evaporation of any moisture within the cavity.
As a practical safeguard of the integrity of the outer structure, the small open joints also prevent excessive wind load on the surface of the building, whilst allowing for some thermal movement or expansion.
Why Choosing the Right Cladding Material is Essential
Fundamental to the effectiveness of a ventilated cladding system is the choice of material.
Although there is a wide range of options from aluminium and stainless steel to terracotta and natural stone, we believe that EQUITONE’s fibre cement cladding is the most technically suitable.
• Thermal performance
Thermal properties of cladding can impact the overall performance of the system. Whereas some materials like metal transfer heat more easily, EQUITONE’s fibre cement cladding has much lower conductivity.
• Weight
The weight of cladding can put unnecessary stress on a structure. Unlike terracotta and natural stone, EQUITONE’s fibre cement cladding is lightweight and therefore more versatile and suitable for a wider range of projects.
• Durability
Different materials require different levels of maintenance. EQUITONE’s fibre cement cladding can withstand harsh weather like rain, snow, and UV rays ensuring a much longer lifespan.
• Reaction to fire
Materials with a high fire rating should always be used on ventilated cladding. EQUITONE’s fibre cement facades are A2-s1,d0 rated meaning they have negligible contribution to fire.
• Sustainable
EQUITONE is the only fibre cement rainscreen panel manufacturer to have achieved Bronze Level Cradle to Cradle certification which is a high measure of sustainability.
• Aesthetics
EQUITONE offers a wide choice of colours, textures and finishes and can even mimic natural materials, enabling architects to create a visually striking contemporary aesthetic.
At EQUITONE, our team in Co. Kildare would be happy to help evaluate your project’s needs and to demonstrate how our rainscreen products will make your design beautiful. Click here to contact us.