Innovative materials amplify the performance and appearance of these cladding systems.
August 2018 Product Briefs: Cladding
Stone Veneer
What appears to be wallpaper is a flexible, thin veneer of real stone suitable for cladding. In a process that includes applying ultra-high temperatures (3,000–5,000ºF) to the top layer of rock, the manufacturer is able to loosen the stone’s components and peel away sheets of 0.07"-thick slate and mica, which it backs with cost-efficient substrates such as MDF and cement board for installation. An epoxy adhesive and sealant are recommended for exterior applications.
Coil Anodized Aluminum
This aluminum cladding is said to deliver better than average durability because the anodizing process creates a hard layer of aluminum oxide. Immersing the aluminum in an electrochemical bath makes it porous, so that it absorbs dyes, but also hard, to resist abrasions. Suitable for use on facades, as part of a curtain wall system, or to wrap columns, the material is also sealed to resist stains and fading.
ALPHATON BM2
The mix of matte engobe and glossy finishes on panels in this facade system is a new option available to specifiers of Shildan Group’s ALPHATON back-ventilated rainscreens. Developed to provide aesthetic appeal, while keeping water from penetrating a building’s exterior, the product is composed of extruded terra-cotta panels that are attached using an aluminum mounting system. Available in nearly any custom color, shape, and size up to 16" x 60", the panels do not require grout or sealants, which can degrade over time.
Kineticwall
Moving parts are what distinguish Exterior Technologies’ dynamic facade systems. The 6" flapper panels of the Kineticwall structural grid react to wind, creating the appearance of waves rolling across the facade, to add visual interest. The system is also built to withstand hurricane winds and torrential rain, while still allowing building occupants a view. Architects can specify the panels in polycarbonate, glass, aluminum, or steel, straight or curved, and in a variety of finishes and colors.
