Description
Metal roof and wall cladding systems play a crucial role in enhancing building thermal efficiency, fire safety, and sustainability, supporting carbon reduction targets and compliance with evolving regulations through careful design, installation, and maintenance.
Key bullet points:
- Metal cladding systems (steel or aluminium) come as built-up onsite assemblies or offsite sandwich panels, improving insulation and fire resistance.
- Updated building regulations (Part L 2021, Future Homes Standard) demand lower carbon emissions and better thermal efficiency, with metal cladding aiding compliance and integration with renewable technologies like solar PV.
- Proper installation, workmanship, and airtightness testing are vital to close the “performance gap” between design and reality.
- Metal cladding also addresses moisture control, acoustic performance, and overheating mitigation while requiring ongoing maintenance for durability.
- Fire safety classifications and testing standards (Approved Document B, BS EN 13501) dictate material choices, especially for taller buildings.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand types and benefits of metal roof and wall cladding systems.
- Comprehend key regulatory requirements related to thermal performance and carbon reduction.
- Recognise the importance of installation quality and testing to ensure building performance.
- Learn about fire safety requirements and maintenance needs for metal cladding.
