Key Takeaways
- Cladding not only enhances a building’s style and visual appeal; it provides vital protection against environmental elements such as UV radiation, rain, wind, frost, and temperature fluctuations.
- Over the last decade or so, there has been a growing emphasis placed on the importance of using non-combustible cladding materials.
- The National Construction Code (NCC) in Australia now mandates the use of non-combustible materials for external walls of high-rise and commercial buildings.
- ALPOLIC™ NC/A1 is a deemed-to-satisfy non-combustible aluminium composite material that has rapidly become a preferred cladding choice in Australia.
Choosing the right exterior cladding material is essential – not just for a pleasing building appearance, but also for its safety, durability, compliance, long-term value, and even the interior comfort of the property!
When chosen properly, cladding not only enhances a building’s style and visual appeal but also provides essential protection against UV radiation, rain, wind, dust, sea spray, frost, and temperature fluctuations. It can also be an imperative fire-safety strategy.
Over the last decade or so, there has been a growing emphasis placed on the importance of using DtS non-combustible cladding materials. This has been largely driven by safety concerns and evolving building codes. Australia sets the benchmark in compliant, safe building façade products, and there are several different types of cladding currently available on the Australian market.
What is Architectural Cladding?
The external layer of a building, cladding is usually attached to the structure’s frame. It plays an important role in insulation and weather resistance and significantly influences a building’s visual identity.
- Protects against moisture, wind, salt-spray, and UV damage
- Enhances the building’s appearance
- Improves insulation (both thermal and acoustic)
- May boost property value
- Depending on the material used, cladding may improve fire safety and thereby reduce insurance premiums
Why Choose Non-Combustible Cladding?
In Australia, architects, builders, developers, insurance companies, and owners are increasingly committed to fire safety and building compliance. The tragic consequences of having combustible cladding have been illustrated by high-rise fire incidents all over the world, and have led Australian authorities to enforce stronger regulations on building standards. Building codes such as the National Construction Code (NCC) now mandate the use of non-combustible materials for external walls of high-rise and commercial buildings. Choosing these products enhances fire safety, ensures legal compliance, may reduce insurance premiums, and provides much greater peace of mind for building owners and occupants.
Types of Exterior Cladding
1. Solid Metal
Often made from aluminium, steel, copper, or zinc, solid metal cladding is durable, weather-resistant, low-maintenance, and modern in appearance. It is commonly used for commercial and residential projects and provides a high level of resistance to corrosion, fire, and weathering.
2. Fibre Cement
This product is manufactured from a combination of cement, sand, and cellulose fibres. Non-combustible, weatherproof, and termite-resistant, it’s a popular choice for its timber-look and suitability for areas prone to bushfires.
3. Brick and Masonry
Timeless and traditional, bricks and masonry are inherently non-combustible and extremely durable. They require little maintenance, offer excellent thermal insulation, but are heavier and more labour-intensive to install. As such, they are not considered suitable for use on high-rise buildings.
4. Timber
While unquestionably beautiful, timber is highly combustible and will feed rather than repel fire. Timber cladding is unsuitable for use on high-rise or high-occupancy buildings, or in bushfire-prone zones unless it has been specifically treated. In low-rise or single occupant residential dwellings, timber cladding is chosen for its warmth and natural look – but it must meet stringent regulations when used externally.
5. Ceramic and Stone
Natural or engineered stone cladding offers a premium finish that is naturally non-combustible. Its weight, cost, and installation requirements, however, can limit its use in certain projects, especially in high-rise environments.
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6. Non-Combustible Aluminium Composite Panels
Deemed-to-satisfy non-combustible aluminium cladding is a newer market alternative that meets strict fire safety standards. It is an easy-to-install, stylish, modern, and compliant cladding option that delivers exceptionally in terms of cost, performance, appearance, and longevity.
A Leader in Non-Combustible Cladding
ALPOLIC™ NC/A1 is a deemed-to-satisfy non-combustible aluminium composite material that has become a preferred cladding choice in Australia. It contains two thin layers of aluminium over a mineral-filled core that meets the highest European fire classification, and it is effectively non-combustible. It has been recognised by the NCC and is widely approved for use across all Australian states and territories. This is a popular choice for new high-rise developments, hospitals, educational facilities, and commercial premises, as well as for recladding projects on existing buildings.
ALPOLIC™ panels are resistant to weather, UV radiation, and corrosion; they are ideal for Australia’s coastal and urban environments. They are preferred by architects and designers, environmentally sustainable, available in a wide range of colours and finishes, and are backed by warranties of up to 20 years.
Choose the Right Cladding for Your Project
Cladding choice isn’t just about visual appeal, but also compliance, safety, and durability. The use of non-combustible materials reflects society’s shift toward more considered, responsible construction practices. Whether you’re a builder, architect, property developer, or homeowner, investing in a high-quality, non-combustible cladding product is a smart choice.
