Hardwall Cladding
DescriptionHardwall cladding is an insulated sandwich panel system, using composite fibre rods to tie the two leaves of the panel together. The construction of a hard wall panel is an outer leaf of cladding, and an inner leaf of grey/coloured concrete which can also be used structurally. These rods are stronger, less thermally conductive, less corrosive and more elastic than the traditional steel connectors. The insulation extends to the edges of the panel to eliminate cold bridging.
Any type of concrete mix can be specified to suit the design intent. Hardwall cladding can also serve a structural purpose, such as bracing a frame or combining with a roof structure as a diaphragm to transfer wind forces.
Benefits
Hardwall cladding
- Enables life-time energy costs to be reduced
- Provides high levels of fire and impact residence - safer and more durable
- Keeps inner faces clean as there is no requirement for sheeting rails or sag rods
- High-quality finish can be left untreated, further contributing to energy efficiency and requiring low maintenance
- Speeds up construction time - not affected by weather or labour shortages.
- Improves buildability - no need for scaffolding.
Process
The outer leaf is cast first face downat the bottom of the mould. The polystyrene insulation layer is then compacted on top of this, and the rods are inserted into the polystyrene before the reinforcement for the inner leaf is placed above. The inner leaf is then cast, forming the last layer of the sandwich.
For more information on Hardwall Cladding and to download a brochure please visit the Hardwall web site.
Please see our case studies.