Cladding Installation Services & re-cladding
SCE BUILDING is a well-known cladding contractor in Sydney. We take pride in our premier Cladding Services and Re-Cladding solutions, catering to the diverse needs of structures across Australia. Cladding installation services, as defined by the Australian Government, involve non-loadbearing layers attached to a building’s exterior to protect against weather and ensure aesthetic appeal. With our unwavering commitment to safety and adoption of the latest building technology, we offer professional and integral solutions for buildings with non-compliant cladding.
At SCE BUILDING, we provide top-notch cladding services in Sydney. Our team’s vast experience in the building industry ensures that we approach each project with expertise and attention to detail. Safety is our top priority, and we go the extra mile to enhance the overall safety of structures through our cladding services. We focus on weather-proofing, energy efficiency, and acoustic rating, creating an optimal environment for occupants. We offer our clients high-quality craftsmanship and expert guidance on cladding.
Energy efficiency is crucial in modern building designs, and our cladding services contribute to reducing energy consumption and promoting sustainability. The use of compliant cladding materials and techniques ensures structures meet the necessary standards and regulations, adhering to AS-1530.1 requirements.
Our cladding services extend to AS-1530.4, which involves fire test criteria and Fire Resistance Level (FRL) requirements. By carefully reviewing compliance with these standards, we ensure structures are adequately protected against fire hazards, providing peace of mind to building occupants.
In addition to the technical aspects, we conduct comprehensive building assessments to evaluate the structural adequacy, integrity, and insulation. This meticulous approach guarantees that every aspect of the cladding process is executed to the highest standards, resulting in safe, functional, and visually appealing buildings.
At SCE BUILDING, we understand that cladding is not just a practical measure but also a crucial element influencing the property’s value. Our expert team ensures that the cladding solutions we provide contribute to enhancing the overall value and appeal of your building. We supply and install cladding systems for both residential and commercial projects, providing solutions for exterior and interior applications all over Sydney.
With a nationwide reach, we are dedicated to helping structures across Australia achieve compliance and safety. Our cladding services cater to a wide range of building types, including commercial, residential, and industrial projects.
Choose SCE BUILDING for innovative cladding solutions backed by extensive knowledge, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to excellence. Let us transform your property with our reliable and superior cladding services.
Cladding Services - Re-Cladding Non-Compliant Cladding
Our comprehensive cladding services encompass:
- Enhancing overall safety standards
- Ensuring effective weather-proofing
- Promoting energy efficiency
- Enhancing acoustic performance
- Installation of compliant cladding adhering to AS1530.1
- Reviewing compliance with AS-1530.4 for fire safety and FRL requirements
- Conducting building assessments for structural adequacy, integrity, and insulation.
historical event
Grenfell Tower, a 24-storey block in West London was covered in fire.
It took just 90 minutes for the fire to race up 20 storeys of the Grenfell Tower in June 2017.
It took 24 hours to get it under control and 60 hours to extinguish it fully; killing 72 people and 70 more were injured.
The reason why the fire was propagated in such a high velocity, was due to the Combustible Aluminium cladding used in the facade of the building.
Aluminium composite panel Flammable core | ||
Insulating core | Heat from a fire will conduct quickly to the core through thin aluminium | Core loses ability to bind, causing outer skins to deform and delaminate |
| ||
Surfaces | Core melts and can ignite | |
Grenfell Tower on fire
London,2017. Grenfell Tower. Uncontrolled fire due to Combustible Cladding
common types of cladding
EPS
Expanded Polystyrene
Expanded polystyrene is a type of composite cladding. It was well received in the market due to its insulating properties, light weight and low cost, however, is combustible and increases the likelihood of fire spreading more quickly.
It may shrink, melt, or ignite when exposed to elevated temperatures. For this reason, it is not considered safe for use on multi-storey buildings.
EPS has been used widely in the Australian Building Industry over the past 20 years.
ACP
Aluminium Composite Panel
ACP are sandwich-type panels consisting of two aluminium faces and a core material, typically either polyethylene or a mineral-based material, or a combination of both. Panel thicknesses typically range from 3mm to 5 mm. Many of these products are marketed as architectural building panels. There are a number of different products on the market that appear outwardly similar, yet there is a difference in the core materials used.
ACP categories
Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) are often split into categories based on the amount of polymer core contained between the two aluminium layers. The categories are specified as per below:
The highest-risk ACP products have a 100 percent polymer core – usually polyethylene – which is often black and classified as ‘PE’.
Products known as FR have been found to contain approximately 30% of polymer content in the core. It has the potential to quickly spread the fire depending on how the project is used.
Products known as ‘A2’ ordinarily have less than 10% polymer in the core and the potential to spread fire is low.
Materials chart
Material | Material | Material | Material | Material |
Mitsubishi | Aluninium | Japan | 1. Limited range in Australia | 1. Available in more than 20 colours |
Alcadex NC | Aluninium | China | 1. Limited range in Australia | 1. Available in more than 30 colours |
Larcore | Honey Comb | spain | 1. Limited range in Australia | 1. Available in more than 30 colours |
Alfrex Solid | Solid | South | 1. Limited range in Australia | 1. Available in more than 30 colours |
Mondoclad | Solid | China | 1. Limited range in Australia | 1. Available in more than 20 colours |
VitraDual | Solid | China | 1. Limited range in Australia | 1. Available in more than 130 colours |
Decoclad | Solid | Australia | 1. Locally manufactured | 1. Available in timber look |
substructure chart
Casette Fixing | Face Fixing | Tongue and Groove | |
Waterproofing | No Additional waterproofing for substructure required | vapour barrier required | No additional waterproofing for the substructure required. |
Limitation | 1. Suitable for horizontal or vertical application on low to high rise buildings | 1. Suitable for horizontal or vertical application on low to high rise buildings | 1. Suitable for small areas and architectural design |
1. Pre-fabricated in a factory environment and can accommodate clients requirements.
| 1. To be installed step by step using rivets.
| 1. The panel is specifically design for tongue and groove fixing, and cannot be fixed any other way.
|
assuring performance
external cladding requirements
When it comes to cladding installation services or re-cladding, there are multiple factors that dictate what type of substructure or material is to be utilised. These factors are determined through systematic analysis of the structure, building design, building height, building location, cladding type, sprinkler systems, form of construction, and wind loads. For this reason, every building needs a different approach in terms of material specification, substructure and installation.
According to the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) there are two main issues resulting in the use of non-compliant cladding and installation methods, they are:
(1) First, a lack of understanding about what evidence should be sought in order to confirm product suitability for an external cladding.
- Manufacturers and suppliers may not be clear about the information or test parameters required to ensure compliance.
- For designers, information provided by the suppliers may be inconclusive in demonstrating compliance with the BCA, compromising their ability to choose appropriate cladding products.
- Regarding builders, installation guidelines may not clearly establish compliance requirements, hence builders may rely on their own experience in assessing cladding products on site. In these circumstances it is possible that a non-compliant method could be utilised.
- For building certifiers, the information about a product installed on a building may not be sufficient to enable them to definitively assess the finish product as non-compliant.
(2) Additionally, installers may deviate from the specified designs and substitute products which may not be able to meet fire resistance requirements. Substitution is typically done to lower costs however jeopardises quality.
FAQs
1. What services does Sydney Contracting Engineers (SCE) offer in terms of cladding?
SCE offers a range of cladding services suitable for your needs, providing comprehensive cladding and re-cladding solutions that focus on enhancing safety, weather-proofing, energy efficiency, and acoustic performance. They ensure compliance with Australian standards, including AS-1530.1 for material combustibility and AS-1530.4 for fire resistance.
2. Why is cladding important for buildings?
Cladding serves as a non-loadbearing layer attached to a building’s exterior, providing crucial protection against weather elements like wind and rain. It shields the building’s structure from natural elements, enhancing durability and longevity. In addition to improving energy efficiency, cladding offers a degree of thermal insulation and weather resistance, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor environment. It also plays an important role in fire safety while enhancing aesthetic appeal and contributing to acoustic performance. Moreover, cladding maintains the privacy and security of exteriors, ensuring that buildings remain both functional and visually appealing.
3. What standards and regulations does SCE adhere to for cladding services?
SCE adheres to Australian standards such as AS-1530.1, which pertains to combustibility of materials, and AS-1530.4, which involves fire test criteria and Fire Resistance Level (FRL) requirements. They ensure all cladding materials and installation methods meet these regulations.
4. How does SCE ensure the safety and compliance of their cladding projects?
SCE conducts comprehensive building assessments to evaluate structural adequacy, integrity, and insulation, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. They meticulously review adherence to fire safety standards and use only certified materials in their cladding projects. Additionally, SCE identifies, reduces, and eliminates construction-related hazards, preparing Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS) for all high-risk construction work.
5. What materials are commonly used in cladding, and what are their risks?
Cladding can be made from a wide variety of materials, including wood, metal, brick, vinyl, and composites like aluminium, wood, and blends of cement and recycled polystyrene. Those with high polymer content, such as polyethylene, pose significant fire hazards. Common options include Expanded Polystyrene (EPS), which is lightweight and cost-effective but highly combustible, and Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP), which can vary in fire risk depending on their core materials. While vinyl wall cladding is affordable and versatile, metal cladding—especially steel and aluminium—is favoured for its durability, anti-corrosion properties, fire resistance, and sleek appearance. Additionally, glass cladding is increasingly popular in modern buildings, contributing to a contemporary aesthetic.
6. What lessons were learned from the Grenfell Tower fire in relation to cladding?
The Grenfell Tower fire highlighted the dangers of using combustible cladding materials, such as aluminium composite panels with a polyethylene core, emphasising the need to assess a building’s overall fire susceptibility. This tragedy underscored the necessity for clear emergency information and instructions for tenants on safety precautions. Additionally, it is vital to maintain up-to-date records on the building’s condition and implement mandatory annual checks. Landlords must ensure that basic safety standards are upheld through proper onsite management and supervision. Countries also require a system that guarantees designs adhere to codes and standards, and that the constructed buildings reflect those designs.
7. How does SCE contribute to energy efficiency in buildings through cladding?
SCE’s cladding services aim to reduce energy consumption by utilising materials and techniques that enhance insulation properties. Adding an external layer retains heat within the building, leading to significant savings on heating costs. For instance, concrete cladding helps minimise heat loss. Natural stone cladding also offers excellent insulation and thermal performance, contributing to energy efficiency and lowering carbon footprints. Overall, the right cladding can dramatically enhance a building’s thermal performance, promoting sustainability and reducing energy expenses.
8. What types of buildings can benefit from SCE’s cladding services?
SCE’s cladding services accommodate various building types, including commercial, residential, and industrial structures. Cladding systems are external wall solutions applied to the exteriors of buildings, offering benefits such as enhanced structural protection, noise and heat insulation, and improved aesthetics. SCE provides tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of projects across Australia.
9. What factors determine the choice of cladding material for a specific project?
The selection of cladding material is influenced by various factors, including the building’s design, height, location, and climatic conditions. It’s essential to choose an exterior wall cladding material with good insulation properties that is also easy to maintain and has a long service life to avoid frequent replacements. Additionally, consider the different configurations, finishes, appearances, and colours to ensure the cladding suits your needs. Start by identifying which parts of the building require cladding, paying special attention to areas exposed to extreme heat, cold, rain, or sun, to ensure optimal performance and compliance.
10. What are the categories of Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) based on fire risk?
Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP) are classified by the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) into four categories based on fire risk, determined by core polymer content. Category A (PE type) has 30-100% polymer and the highest fire spread potential, often featuring a black core. Category B (FR type) contains 7-30% polymer and has a grey core, posing moderate risk. Category C (A2 type) includes less than 1-7% polymer with a light grey core, offering lower risk. Category D (A1/NC) features minimal or no polymer content, using aluminium or mineral cores, and represents the lowest fire risk. Understanding these classifications is crucial for ensuring fire safety in building designs.
11. What are some of the cladding systems used by SCE, and what are their advantages?
SCE utilises various cladding systems, including face fix and invisible fix methods, each with distinct advantages. Face Fix Systems involve ventilated façades attached to durable sub-frames, using either mechanical fixings on timber substrates or adjustable aluminium sub-frames for lightweight applications. Invisible Fix Systems provide clean lines by securing panels to a sub-frame with hangers or using adhesive for a seamless appearance. These systems enhance installation efficiency, aesthetic flexibility, and thermal performance, making them suitable for diverse architectural designs.
12. How does SCE ensure the integrity and performance of their cladding installations?
SCE employs a systematic approach to cladding installation, starting with thorough site preparation, which includes cleaning surfaces, assessing structural integrity, and installing cladding accessories. They check cladding boards for dimensional consistency and ensure material aligns with specifications. By using appropriate accessories and adhering to installation guidelines, SCE maximises the performance of various cladding materials while ensuring compliance with safety and performance standards.
At Sydney Contracting Engineers we close up the industry gap between manufacturer, supplier, fabricator, engineer, designer, builder and installers to ensure only compliant finished products are achieved across all our projects.
"when it comes to safety and design, attention to detail could save lives"
Thank you for your visit, and welcome to the construction home
