Stone Rainscreen
Credentials
So why use stone in preference to any other finish?
(Mouse over the images)
Sustainability:
Sustainability: Considering various factors, including the environmental impact, energy efficiency, recyclability, and durability, stone comes out top every time. It is THE most sustainable building material on the planet with carbon content at only 240 kg CO2 e per Cu.m. Compared with Bricks @ 350; Glass @ 3,600 and Aluminium at 18,000.
Durability and Weather Resistance:
Stone rainscreen systems are designed to protect the building from the effects of weather, UV radiation, and pollution. This helps maintain the appearance of the cladding over time and extends the lifespan of the building envelope. Stone is here for ever and is easy to maintain.
Recyclable & Reusable:
Stone is 100% recyclable and reusable. This is becoming much more of a need on buildings where the future of the materials after the buildings life needs to be part of the planning process. Ironically stone has a very long service life so the opportunity to reuse is limited
Locally Sourced:
Natural Stone is the bedrock of many towns and cities in UK. It has been used very successfully for centuries. Stone, unlike most ceramics; glass & Aluminium can be sourced locally. Not only giving employment locally but contributing to the lower carbon footprint.
The Building Credentials of Stone Rainscreen
- Fire Resistance: Stone is A1 fire rated and the Aztec stone rainscreen cladding system is similarly A1 non-combustible, enhancing the safety of the building.
- Increased usable space: Stone Cladding Systems have partnered with Hilti GB and are able to offer enhanced attachment systems. This results in less insulation needed and therefore a larger floor area for any given footprint. This can vastly increase the rental or sales income
- Moisture Management: Stone Rainscreen cladding helps manage moisture effectively by providing a gap or airspace between the exterior cladding and the building’s structural wall. This gap allows any moisture that penetrates the open joints to drain away and promotes ventilation, reducing the risk of moisture-related issues such as mold, rot, and water damage.
- Thermal Insulation & Bridging: in addition to stone’s excellent thermal resistance the rainscreen system usually incorporates insulation materials within the gap between the cladding and the support wall. This enhances the building’s thermal performance by reducing heat transfer through the exterior wall, which leads to energy savings through reduced heating and air conditioning as well as improving indoor comfort.
- Aesthetic Versatility: Stone rainscreen cladding offers a wide range of design possibilities. It can be straight; L-shaped; U-shaped or curved. It can be from a plethora of different stones and finishes offering the Architect the opportunity to stretch their design imagination and to achieve their desired aesthetic by creating visually appealing facades.
- Easy Maintenance and Repairs: Rainscreen systems are typically easier to maintain and repair compared to traditional solid wall constructions. If a section of cladding becomes damaged or needs maintenance, it can often be accessed and addressed without major disruption to the rest of the building. Stone in particular needs no cleaning.
- Fast and simple to install: Aztec is a vertical rail and clip install. This is far faster than a system with additional horizontal rail and maintains the independence of the panels. This will reduce the installation costs and save time.
- Sound Insulation: Stone is an excellent sound proofer so Stone Rainscreen cladding can also provide some degree of sound insulation, reducing external noise and improving the acoustic comfort of the building’s interior.