Buildings need cladding for a variety of reasons, but one of the most important is to protect the people inside from fires. That’s why it’s important to make sure your cladding is fire rated. In this post, we’re going to explain what Fire rated cladding is, how it works and why you should make sure your building has it.
What is cladding?
There are two main types of fire-rated cladding: thermal and non-thermal. Thermal cladding contains insulation that helps to keep the building cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Non-thermal cladding does not contain insulation, but is still resistant to fire. Both types of cladding are available in a range of colours and finishes, so you can choose the look that best suits your building.
What are the benefits of cladding?
So, what are the benefits of usingcladding? There are several reasons why you might want to consider using cladding in your building project.
First and foremost, cladding can help to protect people and property in the event of a fire. The cladding will act as a barrier between the fire and the building, slowing the spread of the flames and giving people more time to escape. In addition, using fire rated cladding can help to meet building regulations and keep your project up to code. It can also improve the thermal insulation of your building, helping to save energy and money on heating and cooling costs.
How to choose the right cladding for your project?
When it comes to choosing the right cladding for your project, it's important to consider a few factors. The most important is the level of protection you need.
There are three main levels of protection: standard, enhanced, and essential. Standard protection is suitable for areas that don't see a lot of fire, such as offices and shops. Enhanced protection is for high-risk areas, such as schools and hospitals. Essential protection is for hospitals and care homes. It's also important to consider the type of material you want your cladding to be made from. There are a few different materials to choose from, each with their own benefits and drawbacks.
Once you've decided on the level of protection you need and the type of material, it's then time to decide on the design of your cladding. There are a range of designs to choose from, so you can find one that perfectly suits your project.
How to instal cladding?
If you're looking to instal cladding in your home or office, you're going to want to make sure you do it right. Here are a few tips on how to instal cladding properly:
-Measure and cut the panels to size before installing them
-Make sure the surface is clean and free of dirt, dust, and grease before installing the panels
-Use a spirit level to ensure the panels are level before attaching them with screws or nails
-Leave a gap of at least 15mm between the cladding and any combustible material
Maintenance and care of cladding
cladding is an important part of any building, and it's crucial that it's properly maintained in order to ensure your safety.
Here are a few tips for keeping your cladding in good condition:
- Keep all areas around the cladding clear so that there's no build-up of dirt or dust.
- Regularly check the screws and fixings to make sure they're tight and in good condition.
- Inspect the cladding for any damage or signs of wear and tear.
If you notice any problems with your cladding, don't hesitate to call a professional to take a look. It's important to keep your building safe and secure, so don't take any chances.
Troubleshooting cladding problems
If you're having any problems with your cladding, it's important to troubleshoot as soon as possible. There are a few things you can do if you're having issues with your cladding. The first is to check the installation. Make sure all of the panels are fitted correctly and that there are no gaps or spaces where fire could potentially sneak through.
If everything looks good on the installation side, it's time to move on to the next step: checking the system itself. Make sure all of the components are working properly and that there haven't been any changes or updates that could have caused problems. If you've tried everything and you're still having issues, it's time to call in the professionals. They'll be able to help identify and solve the problem so you can rest easy knowing your building is safe from fires.
Conclusion:
fire rated cladding comes in a range of materials and styles, so it’s important to choose the right kind for your building. Not all cladding is created equal, and some materials are much better at resisting fire than others. If you’re not sure what kind of cladding to choose for your property, talk to a professional. They will be able to advise you on the best option for your needs and budget.
