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Understand Facade Cladding With Definitions, Projects & Ideas
If a building were a person, the cladding would be its skin. Just like the beautiful diversity we see in the world, cladding offers almost infinite variations. And just as doctors remind us that skin is a complex organ requiring years of training to fully understand, façade experts also recognize that cladding is both a highly technical and deeply aesthetic element.
Façade cladding involves applying one material over another to form a protective or decorative skin. Specialists explain that cladding provides thermal insulation and weather resistance while improving the appearance of buildings; it can be made from wood, metal, brick, vinyl or composite materials. Rainscreen cladding directs water and wind away from the structure rather than being completely waterproof, common examples are ventilated facade systems or balance pressure systems. Pre‑formed metal panels are common in industrial and commercial projects because of their durability and ease of installation.
Table of contents :
Materials and Properties For Facade Cladding
| Material | Advantages (short phrases) | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Glass | Translucency, modern appearance | Requires solar control and thermal breaks |
| Metal (aluminum, steel) | Durable, lightweight, low maintenance | May corrode; needs insulation |
| Stone | Timeless aesthetic, very durable | Heavy weight, higher cost |
| Wood | Warm texture, renewable | Regular maintenance; moisture‑sensitive |
| Composite (HPL, fiber‑cement, BIPV) | Design flexibility, varied textures and colors | Quality varies; technical study needed |
Curtain Walls
A curtain wall is a non‑structural exterior covering designed to protect the interior of a building. Because the façade carries no structural load beyond its own weight, it transfers wind loads to the main building structure through connections at floors or columns. This lack of structural function allows the use of lightweight materials; steel frames have largely given way to aluminum extrusions, and glass is typically used for infill because it reduces construction costs, provides an architecturally pleasing look and allows natural light to penetrate deeper within the building.
In practice, a curtain wall combines a framework (vertical and horizontal mullions) with infill panels. These panels may be glass or opaque materials such as stone, metal or composite boards depending on the function. To enhance thermal performance, manufacturers often integrate thermal breaks and high‑performance glazing. Silicone‑gasket systems or pressure plates, unitised or prefabricated modules allow quick installation and a seamless appearance. Applying cladding to opaque sections transforms a curtain wall into a hybrid solution that combines glazing with rainscreen panels to create a unified façade.
Is curtain wall in your next project? Check out 10 projects using curtain walls to inspire you!
Multifaçades
The Multifaçades system is a pressure‑equalized rainscreen cladding system that accommodates multiple cladding materials within the same panel and integrates a patented window system (SM160) to align the insulated glazing unit with the cladding. This solution addresses thermal and acoustic issues while giving buildings a natural and distinctive appearance; it meets energy‑efficiency requirements that curtain walls can no longer satisfy. Seamless integration of cladding and windows allows for bold façade designs because pressure within the cavity is equalized.
Engineered to withstand extreme climates, the system uses a pressure‑equalized rainscreen that transfers wind loads to the supporting wall and drains water. Dry gaskets balance air pressure and hide mechanical fasteners. Each panel is independent and can be replaced without dismantling adjacent ones. The available materials include glass, aluminum, sintered stone (Dekton, Neolith), high‑pressure laminates (HPL) and building‑integrated photovoltaic panels. Shapes may be rectangular, trapezoidal or curved, and single opaque panels can be up to 54 ft² (≈5 m²).
This hotel in Canada is a fantastic example of how the Multifaçades system is used for large scale projects needing high-quality facade cladding systems.
Unlike a curtain wall, the Multifaçades system is anchored to an insulated wall behind the cladding, significantly reducing thermal bridging and improving overall envelope tightness. By optimizing the ratio between glazed and opaque areas it is possible to meet performance goals while controlling costs. Because of prefabrication and independent panels, the system is suitable for both new construction and retrofit projects; panels can be removed easily, minimizing damage, and applications range from schools and institutional buildings to hotels, residential towers and offices.
Façade Retrofits
Façade retrofitting involves updating or upgrading a building’s outer layer to enhance aesthetics, energy efficiency, safety and performance. Unlike complete reconstruction, it preserves the building’s structure while renewing the “skin”; this approach is cost‑effective and environmentally friendly, especially for older commercial or residential buildings. Retrofitting can include installing new cladding materials, high‑performance glazing, shading systems, LED lighting or energy‑absorbing glass surfaces.
Growing demand for sustainable buildings is pushing architects and owners toward retrofit solutions; retrofits allow older buildings to remain competitive by improving their appearance and performance. Energy efficiency is a key driver: double‑glazed windows, thermally broken aluminum frames and dynamic shading reduce solar heat gain and lower air‑conditioning costs. Sustainability goals are also enhanced: using recycled aluminum, low‑emissivity glass or photovoltaic panels helps buildings earn environmental certifications and appeals to eco‑conscious investors.
Besides improving performance, the renovation of a facade cladding offers aesthetic renewal without full demolition; architectural lighting, decorative panels and media façades can give outdated buildings a fresh identity. This approach is more cost‑effective than redevelopment and can be carried out while the building remains in use, reducing costs and disruption. Increasingly strict energy regulations encourage owners to bring their envelopes up to standard, and some retrofit projects are eligible for incentives. Retrofits also improve indoor comfort by installing advanced ventilation systems, sunlight control features and insulated cladding. Finally, smart technologies such as automatic shading, smart glass or connected lighting systems optimize energy use and prepare buildings for the future.
Conclusion : Facade Claddings Are Vital
The choice and design of façade cladding have a major impact on the appearance, comfort and energy performance of buildings. Curtain walls provide transparency and aesthetic flexibility but require complementary cladding solutions to reduce heat loss. Multi‑façade systems represent an evolution by combining different materials and integrating windows within a high‑performance rainscreen. Finally, façade retrofit strategies allow existing buildings to meet current energy and sustainability requirements while refreshing their image. By exploring these cladding ideas, architects, promoters and general contractors can create building envelopes that are functional, durable and inspiring.