Ventilated facade
An extra layer of protection and efficiency.
In the last few years, ventilated façade systems have been gaining ground both in new construction and in the renovation of buildings, giving rise to surprising results that completely change the image of already deteriorated buildings.
Its popularity is due to the fact that, with this type of system, the energy efficiency of buildings is improved in a very high percentage, which results in greater comfort for the tenants.
Their ease of maintenance, low cost and durability are some of their advantages when used in new construction. In addition, the high malleability of some of the materials used allows for the construction of risky and eye-catching designs without compromising the structure of the building or its energy performance.
The ventilated facade is an enclosure system that allows an insulating layer and an outer leaf to be placed on top of an inner leaf by means of a supporting structure.
The separation distance between the layers allows a current of air to pass between the insulation and the coating, generating a “chimney effect” that creates natural ventilation.
This effect, through heat transfer by convection, makes the ventilated facade warm in summer and circulates the air inside the chamber, replacing the warm air with colder air. On the other hand, during the winter months the air in the chamber is heated, but not enough to circulate and renew itself.
Parts of a ventilated facade
As we have mentioned, ventilated facades are made up of several layers and parts differentiated from each other, as each one fulfils a specific function:
Anchors
A series of pieces, the spacers, are anchored on the interior leaf and will be responsible for solving the problems of the collapse of the façade. As an option, insulating shims can be added for the breakage of the thermal bridge.
The profiles are screwed onto these spacers, on which the support assemblies will be installed, with the function of adjusting the height according to the material to be used on the outer leaf.
In the case of the STACBOND assembly systems, the aluminium composite panel trays will be placed on the anchors according to the system used.
Insulating layer
In ventilated facade systems, an insulating layer is not always used, but if added, it considerably improves the thermal and acoustic insulation of the building.
As the insulating layer occupies the entire façade, it contributes to improving the whole of the enclosure, as it protects the areas most vulnerable to leaks, such as windows, shutter boxes, floors, etc.
