Rainscreen claddingAlcan is the manufacturer of the well-known cladding material Alucobond®. Although the use of metal rainscreen systems is relatively new in the UK, Alucobond® has been used in this type of application for over 30 years. Alcan therefore has virtually unequalled experience in this type of cladding solution. In essence, a rainscreen system accepts that some moisture will always be present in the cavity of a built-up cladding system. By draining and ventilating the cavity, a rainscreen solves this problem and offers long-term protection to the building structure. A major benefit of a rainscreen system is that it eliminates the need for panel joints to be sealed with gaskets or silicones.
Composition and manufacture
Alucobond® material is exceptionally flat, lightweight and formable. The panel consists of two outer 0.5mm aluminium skins bonded to a 3mm polyethylene core. The core has excellent noise- and vibration-reduction properties and there is no need to apply anti-drumming products onto the back of the panel. Support structures are made from extruded-aluminium profiles. The panel and support structure are recyclable. Alucobond® has been approved by BBA Certificate no 05/4214.
Size and weight
Any size panel up to a maximum of 1,750 x 6,000mm. Alucobond® material weighs 5.5kg/m2 and a typical installed system is less than 8kg/m2.
Appearance
The outer skin has a decorative PVDF coating which is available in a range of standard colours; special colours are available on request. The material can also be supplied in a range of natural aluminium finishes.
Sitework
If required, Alucobond® can be cut and formed on site. Alcan International Network UK Limited also works with a network of carefully selected, independent facade companies.