Cover Story

Face to Face

The grandeur of this sumptuous residence was achieved by bringing together two immense plots. A never seen or heard theory of building a contemporary space using an ultra-modern yet natural material palette including stone, wood and metal like zinc was successfully implemented in this residence. Location: Sector 15, Part 1, Gurugram

complete building systems and the façade can automatically change its shape according to the sun path diagram. Hence, these automatic systems cater to the performance of the building without human intervention.

We use double skin systems for our projects which offer flexibility irrespective of the inside of the façade. In fact, the interior grammar can undergo dynamic alterations; it can even be used for multiple functional regimes but the external skin remains intact.

Double skin façades, which are being most widely used in commercial buildings to permit natural light to enter the building, can work as an efficient ventilation system if properly designed. External shading devices and movable overhangs installed on the building façade are very advantageous in the sense that it provides a very effective design solution against overheating. By using these methods, one reduces the emission and trapping of heat which in turn cools the place down, reducing the need for air conditioners. High-performance façades can allow for a reduction in peak cooling loads and therefore need a smaller AC system and/or a low-energy alternative, which can translate into increased energy savings, reduced initial costs, and HVAC system operation and maintenance savings.

What is your advice to young, aspiring architects?

Find a mentor, work with him/her for some time. Once you are learned and have some basic experience then translate it into your own design language and open up your own practice.

CLADDING TRENDS

MATERIALS, DESIGNS, TECHNOLOGIES

The Stepped Cube House appears as a set of cubes with varied volumes, arranged with a balanced play of solids and voids, A project by Prashant Parmar Architects

Cladding serves to maintain a balance between the structure’s outside and interior environments and is meant to suit both aesthetic and practical needs. Cladding is done according to the building’s operating needs. The expansion of the cladding industry is being driven by an increase in infrastructure and building activities in residential and non-residential areas throughout the world. This finished layer serves a number of purposes, including improving the aesthetics, boosting thermal and environmental performance, and keeping unwanted external elements out of sight. Many cladding systems are now available on the market because of advancements in building technology and construction materials.

The cladding industry has changed dramatically over the past few years. Along with the influx of new materials and designs in the market, the technological advancements in the application can also be witnessed.

We interviewed some experts from the industry who shared their perspectives on the cladding industry, including changes in cladding technologies and materials, the latest trends, the significance of fire safety in exterior cladding systems, and more. Read this cover story to know more.

FOUR MAJOR TRENDS IN EXTERIOR WALL CLADDING

Façades are the interface between the interiors and exteriors of a building. They protect it from external agents and are one of the main contributors to creating comfortable environments.

Exterior wall cladding solutions have evolved to keep pace with time and offer cutting-edge results with multiple options. It gives the exterior a unique, contemporary look by defining the different areas of every building resulting in a structure that is filled with visual interest. And so, there is a constant effort to create something better. “If one is to narrow it down to 4 major trends, then we see a need for materials offering higher resistance to nature and such external elements, adopting solutions that are environmentally friendly and sustainable in nature, using smart material that is low on maintenance, and a material that naturally blends with the surroundings,” says Deepak

Mathur, Sr. Vice President- Global Marketing and Sales at Jindal Aluminium Limited.

DEEPAK MATHUR

Sr. Vice President- Global Marketing and Sales, Jindal Aluminium Ltd.

When it comes to the façade of a structure, builders, as well as end-users, mostly agree that along with aesthetic purposes now it has got other functional roles to play also. Although the traditional wet façade elements such as bricks, stones, and wood are still widely used and have a ready market, new-age elements and composites around HPL or fibre cement are also rapidly gaining ground, which is now the major trend in the cladding market. Technological advancements and novelties in the industry are aiding in evolving consumer preference,

SHANKHO CHOWDHURY

President, Decoratives Division, Century Plyboards (India) Ltd.

says Shankho Chowdhury, President, Decoratives Division, Century Plyboards (India) Ltd. “We have seen that currently highpressure laminate cladding and stone veneers are the most recent drifts for cladding options in India. Other than this, perforated metal mesh claddings are also in trend

AR. RAVI KADAM

Principal Architect & Urban Designer, Integrid Design Consultants

for most commercial buildings and factories.

Ecological materials that have greater durability and resistance to the environment and bestow a certain character to the space are the drifting choices for exterior cladding, observes Ravi

Kadam, Principal Architect & Urban Designer, Integrid

Design Consultants. He adds that materials like perforated aluminium, HPL, brick, GRC, etc. are the trending option for cladding.

AR. PRASHANT PARMAR

Founder & Principal Architect, Prashant Parmar Architect

Ar. Prashant Parmar, Founder & Principal Architect, Prashant

Parmar Architect says, in the current architecture practice, we choose materials that give warmth with long-lasting aesthetics. Brick- of red & brown tone, MCM (Modified Clay Material), natural stone and concrete panels, etc. are preferred.

ASHWANI KHANNA

VP, Marketing & HR, Fundermax

Ashwani Khanna, VP, Marketing & HR, Fundermax points out that innovative, and sustainable materials are preferred for exterior wall cladding. Such options include

BESCOM, Bangalore – Louvers by Wienerberger exterior grade laminates (as per EN438-6) which are highly durable, Glass Fibre Reinforced Concrete (GFRC), and metal claddings (Zinc, Copper, and Steel), etc. Some of the key benefits of using such modern cladding materials over traditional ones are eco-friendliness, thermal efficiency, energy renewability, and sustainability.

MUTHU KUMARAN

DGM, Wienerberger India

Muthu Kumaran, DGM,

Wienerberger India, says that clay façade tiles are in the trend, due to their natural colours and because it is a sustainable cladding material with longevity and low maintenance. Louvres are extensively used for passive shading and offer a contemporary look. Brick cladding is an eternal trend and still, it continues to be the most preferred cladding for residences & small buildings. Metal claddings and metal mesh are also in the foray, adds Kumaran.

External wall cladding is no longer simply for hiding old bricks; it can be made the focal point of the design, notes Rounaq K.

Choudhari, Director, Glass Wall

System (I) Pvt Ltd. It can also be utilised to spice up a surface, transforming it from dull and uninteresting to a prominent element in the landscape.

According to Choudhari, major trends in exterior wall cladding are the following:

ROUNAQ K. CHOUDHARI

Director, Glass Wall System (I) Pvt Ltd.

l Bright flowers and dark stones:

Without some bright and happy flowers, no portion of the garden is truly complete. Use dark-toned natural stone pavers on your home’s outside walls, along with bright and formal tulips or other annuals. l Bright doors and dark stones:

The natural stone and bright paint combination work equally as well on retro-style houses as it does on the most current house designs, which is a perk of this trend. l Tiles made of glass: Glass tiles used for external cladding can have a stunning visual effect, even if they are not as durable as natural stone. To add a bit of shine to recreational rooms, use glass tiles in mosaic designs. l Natural stone pavers: They come in a variety of textural and sculptural shapes to add interest to outdoor dinner parties and everyday life.

Rear-ventilated façade system is another trend in the market, adds Khanna. This particular system uses durable exterior grade high-pressure laminates as a second skin of the building. Apart from offering contemporary aesthetics and design, they are also sustainable and can be easily used in combination with various other cladding materials.

Khanna spots that sun-shading systems or louvres are in demand in today’s market. This system is specifically aimed at improving daylighting, glare mitigation, and energy efficiency, without compromising occupant comfort. There is also an increasing demand for green buildings, hence most designers seek certified products and prefer green-rated materials.

We see a constant push towards the use of ‘Parametric Façades’ or façades that are designed parametrically to create a differentiated visual and aesthetic effect, as well as contribute to the performance of the building with respect to the environment, notes Ar. Sushant Verma, Co-founder & Design Head, rat[LAB] Studio.

AR. SUSHANT VERMA

Co-founder & Design Head, rat[LAB] Studio Parametric design has gained popularity and demand in the last few years as architects and patrons have started to look into the performative aspect of façades and cladding materials that could help reach the sustainability goals of a project. Metal façades such as aluminium, weathering steel (corten steel), concretefinish composites, and woodenfinish composites are some of the common ones in practice that could be easily infused with the parametric design intent to achieve interesting results, adds Verma.

MOST PREFERRED CLADDING MATERIAL

Exterior grade laminates are gradually becoming a common norm in modern-day architecture, says Ashwani Khanna. Wood-based products are better since they do not transmit direct heat radiated into the buildings.

“If we follow the revolutionary rear ventilated method of installation that can help keep the heat at bay and enhance the occupant comfort of the building. It is a sustainable design that reduces the thermal bridges and condensation of water vapour to

IMAGE COURTESY -JINDAL ALUMINIUM

Building façade

Cover Story

Parametric façade by rat[LAB] Studio

protect the building and reduce the overall air conditioning load of a building. This also allows natural ventilation which is considered one of the best ways to prevent the spread of infection and/or airborne microbes,” adds Khanna.

Chowdhury says that the most preferred cladding material is HPL (CenturyExteria), which should be of premium quality exterior grade. At par with global standards, they are available in large format panels. The product complies with EN: 438 – Part#6 and ASTM: E84 Fire safety. Available in 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, and up to 18 mm. thickness, the product is sure to revolutionise building façades and other similar building exterior applications.

Our most preferred cladding material is brick, says Ar. Parmar, as from centuries of human civilisation, and this means it will stay fresh for decades.

Ar. Kadam too agrees that over the years of architectural practice, we have opted for brick cladding for innumerable projects. Brick cladding imparts an earthy and rustic emotion to the space.

Apart from being stylish, brick cladding also provides atmospheric and acoustic aversion and has virtually zero maintenance cost. His other preference is precast cladding materials are a smarter choice for quick installation and saving costs.

Kumaran from Wienerberger India adds that clay tiles are the most preferred cladding material due to the aesthetics, it gives a timeless modern façade with the distinctive character of natural clay. Mathur from Jindal Aluminium Limited explains why aluminium is the preferred cladding material. Aluminium composite panels are extremely durable, and their qualities ensure that they can last up to 30 years without much maintenance and effort. The reason for its broad appeal is that aluminium is very versatile and adaptable to create a variety of looks. Aluminium cladding is also lightweight and offers energy efficiency and the choice to coat the metal with colours providing a variety of looks that perfectly suit the architectural requirements.

Ar. Verma adds that his studio prefers using steel as a cladding material due to its sheer flexibility

Salient Features & Properties of HPL

l No distortion even in extreme climatic changes such as from -20° C to +80°

C or from a dry climate to relative humidity in excess of 85 – 90% l Highly UV resistant with almost no shade fading even after years of installation l Resistant to extreme weather conditions, e.g., heavy rains, acid rain, hail & heat l Suitable for installation as the ventilated façade system l Colour stable – optimal lightfastness l Self–supporting l Decorative (double-sided) – a wide range of wood grain décor species & solid colours l Double hardened resins providing resistance against erosion from natural elements l Impact-resistant – wind and other elements (as per EN

ISO 178) l Scratch resistant l Fire retardant – FR rating

Class 1 l Easy & rapid installation l Low-cost maintenance – panels do not attract dust and self-cleaning is possible l Heat insulation and wall protection – protects buildings from the excess temperature in summer to excess cold in winter & aiding the removal of heat and moisture from rain or condensation l Lightweight compared to any rocky product l Suitable for all exterior cladding applications l EDF stands for E (Exterior

Grade) D (Severe Use) F (Fire

Retardant)

(Shankho Chowdhury, President, Decoratives Division, Century Plyboards (India) Ltd.)

DynamicFaçades by rat[LAB] Studio

in taking any form and pattern, allowing easy manufacturing and fabrication processes that are available. As we often delve into the parametric design of façades & building skin, choosing appropriate cladding material that compliments the intent is extremely important. Longevity & durability are also integral factors when choosing the materials.

Choudhari from GWS is certain that exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) and insulated metal wall panels are two of the most common energy-efficient cladding systems in the market today. EIFS is a lightweight cladding that may mimic the look of a variety of construction materials, such as brick, stone, metal panels, siding, and stucco. It can also be installed over existing claddings as a retrofit. In terms of both materials and installation costs, EIFS is a costeffective system when compared to many of the systems, adds Choudhari.

ROLE OF CLADDING IN CONSTRUCTING SUSTAINABLE BUILDINGS

Cladding can potentially regulate the heat and light that enters the building if used smartly. Beyond the obvious aesthetic character that it poses to a building, a performance aspect can be achieved using appropriate methods of design and evaluation. Materiality could also help add to the sustainability points of the project which can help choose the right material for the cladding system, observes Ar. Verma.

Shankho Chowdhury too agrees on the crucial role played by cladding in constructing sustainable buildings; the reasons are as below:

Because of the superficial protective layer, the maintenance becomes low and it also makes the building more durable than a traditional building which is finished with wall paint. l Cladding materials like metal, stone, and wood give a very good aesthetic appeal and texture to the building, which paints cant. l It makes the building weatherproof as it has strong resistance against external weather conditions like winds, sunlight, and rain. It also acts as a protective layer and prevents

the seepage of water into the interiors. l It creates a good heat insulation layer protecting the interiors from the absorption of extreme heat. l Cladding acts like a soundinsulating layer that prevents external noise from coming inside. l Cladding protects the building from pollution; dirt can impart a very shabby look to the building when only paint is used as a finishing surface. “In India, the buildings & façades face zero degrees to 45-50 degrees range of temperature, which is very difficult for any construction material to sustain. High finished surface quality & aesthetics, good mechanical properties, freeform design possibilities, reduces product thickness, enhanced durability & low environmental impact are only a few advantages that new cladding technologies are offering us”, says Ar. Parmar.

Drywall cladding, concrete panels, and corten steel cladding are some of the most adopted options by architects nowadays. Some cladding materials have

IMAGE COURTESY - GLASS WALL SYSTEM

Lodha World One at Mumbai; Architect - Pei Cobb Freed & Partners

MODERN-DAY MATERIALS - OPTIONS FOR CLADDING

Glass Fibre Reinforced Concrete (GFRC): GFRC is one of the most versatile, lightweight moulding materials available today. Available in a plethora of designs, shades, forms, and textures, GFRC is 50-70% lighter than ordinary concrete and has more compressive strength.

Clay Hollow Bricks: This is best suited for the lightweight construction of exterior walls and interior partitions. The hollow blocks weigh 60% less than solid concrete blocks of the same size.

High-Pressure Laminates (HPL): HPL cladding is widely used in exterior and interior applications. HPL is available in an array of shades, surfaces, and thickness which offer unique and elegant appeal to the buildings. They are suitable for demanding and decorative applications such as wall cladding, balcony casing, louvres, roof cladding, fencing, furniture, sanitary facilities, etc. These versatile panels are easy to install, durable and low on maintenance.

Ultra-High-Performance Concrete (UPHC):

UPHC is a fibre-reinforced cementitious concrete material that has a dense matrix and very low permeability that prevents the ingress of harmful materials such as chlorides.

Aluminium Composite Panels (ACP): ACPs as cladding materials have been around in India for quite some time. Although there has been an influx of many new materials, ACP still holds its place for its versatility. ACP consists of two thin coil-coated aluminium sheets as the outer and inner layers which sandwich a coating of polyethylene.

Terracotta Cladding: Terracotta is a material manufactured with natural and aged raw clay and water. It can be used as part of rain-screen cladding, sunshade, or precast solution.

Metal Cladding: Metal cladding is available in different materials including aluminium, zinc, copper, steel, zinc, etc., and is a durable option for the façade.

ETFE Membranes: ETFE or Ethylene Tetra Fluoro Ethylene is a fluorite-based plastic that can withstand high temperatures and promote solar efficiency.

Fibre Reinforced Plastic (FRP): Also known as Fibre Reinforced Polymer, FRP is a composite material comprising of a polymer matrix blended with reinforcing materials, such as fibres.

Corten Steel: It is made up of iron, copper, phosphorous, silicon, nickel, and chromiumbased alloy. This weather-resistant and anticorrosion material is suitable for wall cladding, roofing, structural beams and support.

(Ashwani Khanna, VP, Marketing & HR, Fundermax)

the quality to maintain internal temperature, which works to make energy-efficient buildings, adds Ar. Parmar.

Kumaran, notes that cladding material should provide excellent thermal insulation and recyclable.

Choice of cladding has a significant effect on the environmental, acoustical, and aesthetical features of the building, explains Ar. Kadam. Along with a flood of innovative materials and designs introduced in the market, we see the advancement in technologies in the application as well. Growing demand for energy efficiency in project exteriors, especially for key construction industry participants, including architects and designers, are encouraging investments in lightweight and energy-efficient exterior panels in commercial as well as residential buildings, adds Kadam.

The idea behind cladding on a building’s exterior is to provide the structure with a thermal insulation cover and ensure that it follows a path of sustainability. In the construction of green buildings, the role of cladding is to make sure that the exterior of a building uses the least amount of energy possible and that it also offers suitable ventilation and sunshading features. And in doing so, it ensures to maintain an interior environment, which promotes the better health of the building’s occupants and the surroundings. The major function or role of cladding, says Rounaq Choudhari, is to separate a building’s inside environment from the outside environment in such a way that the outside environment does not

Hinjewadi High Street - A project by Integrid Design Consultants

affect the indoor environment. It’s also great for reducing light penetration and heat radiation and conduction from the sun, as well as preventing interiors from becoming faded and dull. Sunshades and louvered panels also allow reflected light to enter the building, rather than direct sunshine, which improves comfort.

Khanna concludes that a welldesigned façade reduces the thermal bridges, condensation of water vapour, and protects the building. Façade systems are expected to carry out a number of functions and perform in a variety of ways, such as structural integrity, durability, weather–resistance, acoustic insulation, thermal insulation, safety and security barriers, and more. A thorough assessment of the durability of the new materials proposed needs to be done to ensure that the materials used do not compromise the performance requirements of the building.

REGULATING DAYLIGHT & VENTILATION: ROLE OF CLADDING TECHNOLOGIES & MATERIALS

Mathur from Jindal Aluminium explains, that one of the essential elements of exterior building façades is allowing natural daylight indoors. But this daylight needs to be controlled so that it is useful. It has to be regulated without creating glare or other unwanted outcomes for those who use the building. The use of intelligent and adaptive façade cladding can help in ensuring that a building is more climate-responsive. And by climate-responsive, we mean using technology and material that helps regulate natural light and ventilation suitably. Façade cladding is now rear ventilated, double skinned, etc., to ensure that daylight is regulated and ventilation controlled.

According to Shankho Chowdhury, cladding enables a building with a contemporary ventilated façade system that eliminates moisture problems due to internal condensation or water, ensuring a well-ventilated and improved comfort for the indoors. The drainage of rainwater, entering through the ventilation gaps between panels, is carried out through ventilation outlets. Another major benefit of ventilated cladding system is it reduces the mechanical stress in the main structure and also protects the walls from the harsh direct sunlight.

Rounaq Choudhari, too agrees that ventilated façade can regulate daylight & ventilation. It is an outside building envelope system that is erected dry. It can be implemented on new construction sites as well as renovated ones. This piece creates a space between the building’s perimeter wall and the exterior cladding. Its principal function is to regulate the flow of heat, air, and light between the inside and exterior of the structure.

Fenestrated cladding act as a shading device to cut down harsh sunlight and bring in clam defused light inside the space, states Kadam. The right cladding material allows the passive & active ventilation in the building. Such as double-skinned cladding helps the warm air to rise & exhaust from the void between the two skins.

IMAGE COURTESY - JINDAL ALUMINIUM A building façade

An Aspect Façade Project by Wienerberger

This allows ventilation through the façade without opening the windows.

Kumaran points out that louvres are best to regulate daylight and ventilation and mechanical or motorised louvres will further enhance the functionality also currently clay tiles are used as fins.

According to Khanna, louvers or sun shading systems are aimed at providing superior visual comfort to occupants. They can be designed in different sizes and configurations and can be used to mitigate the effects of glare and heat ingress in different kinds of buildings located across the country. It is an effective way to reduce air conditioning loads. Yet it offers designers an opportunity to create a distinctive architectural impact. Sun path analysis, wind loading patterns, dynamic sun shading, and thermally efficient materials are some of the factors considered while installing such a cladding system.

Ar. Verma is recommending perforations in a cladding system. Interstitial gaps in geometric configuration and the overall design arrangement are a few ways of integrating into the cladding design of a façade or building skin that could be smartly used as parameters to control daylight and ventilation. Material type, thickness, and structural support system are a few other aspects that could be evaluated to lead to heat gain understanding of the building.

INTEGRATING INTELLIGENT & RESPONSIVE CLADDING

According to Mathur, intelligent and responsive cladding comprises high-performance envelopes that promote energy optimisation and help in reducing the use of resources and offer comfort to a building’s inhabitants. There has been rapid progress in advanced materials and technologies being used in the external cladding of buildings. Intelligent cladding supports energy sustainability measures and is responsive to the needs of the inhabitants of the building. An intelligent façade is the primary defence of the building and helps turn the structure smart by protecting it against environmental and climatic variations. By responding favourably to using sunlight efficiently by reducing solar heat gain and using wind for natural cooling, intelligent and responsive cladding helps maintain optimal lighting levels and control overall energy consumption contributing to its green quotient.

An intelligent & responsive cladding would be one that looks into performative aspects and behaviour of it as a system in a building, to regulate and control heat and light to create a positive impact, says Ar. Verma. Parametric Design methods can be helpful and deployed to achieve such results as it allows evaluating the designs with respect to climatic response while in the conception stage.

Ar. Parmar adds that an intelligent & responsive cladding is responsive to nature in order to reduce heat, provide adequate ventilation and also give an identity to the building, kinetic façade is an example.

The term intelligent façade cladding refers to a dynamic façade that adapts to its surroundings, agrees Rounaq Choudhari. Sunshading devices based on the elastic kinematic concept are possible. The major goal is to limit solar heat gain while also providing enough ventilation.

Khanna too vouches for Kinetic façades. They can be sun-shading systems based on the elastic kinematic principle. The primary objective is to reduce solar heat gain and adequate ventilation. They are dynamic and adaptive and can be made up of materials such as exterior grade laminates.

Shree Rajlaxmi Kueetira, Bangalore, Material - CenturyExteria HPL

Urban Frame House - a unique combination of spatial planning; extensive spaces with an expressive frame façade. A project by Prashant Parmar Architect

SMART CLADDING SOLUTIONS & TECHNOLOGIES

A façade can be considered smart when it adapts to environmental conditions and transforms itself simultaneously, elucidates Kumaran. This happens when the cladding material is passive or active, which adjusts to adapt to different conditions, responding to changes that occur on the outside and inside of the building. When it comes to façades, the main focus is on the equation of maximising natural sunlight, protected from solar radiation, while controlling ventilation and heat input/output. Of late, the area of smart materials and technologies has progressed rapidly. New research on nanomaterials and smart composites imitating natural structures and processes are trialed almost every day within the technologies, observes Shankho Chowdhury. In the architectural field, and especially in the sector of building cladding, only a trivial amount of such advanced technologies have settled. As an alternative to traditional mechanisms and techniques, architects and civil engineers are nowadays using enhanced composite materials to provide crafted and efficient façades. “Considering the value of green energy, with my experience in the field, I think to have cladding materials with photovoltaic panels (PV) as there is no scope for highrise apartments for the production of green energy. If the technology experts give their valuable inputs in creating cladding materials with photovoltaic panels, it will start a new era of green building,” anticipates Ar. Parmar. Traditionally cladding has always been static and merely remained as an envelope around the building. In recent times though, we have seen environmental challenges impacting the performance of such façades. Innovative cladding solutions use available research and technology to tackle these issues. So be it dealing with humidity or temperature, sunlight, airflow, and global warming, smart cladding solutions and technology have become the first choice of material to find use in modern building façades. These solutions and technology have led to the introduction of materials like aluminium that bring dynamism and response to a building exterior, says Mathur.

According to Khanna, façade designs, today are defined by their flexibility, which is achieved by constant innovation and development. This can be potentially done by constantly assessing feedback from completed and ongoing projects. This feedback helps in identifying areas that need improvement such as design, installation challenges, etc. This feedback is also added to a pool of potential innovations, which can be later used in developing new installation systems.

ENSURING SAFETY AND SECURITY THROUGH CLADDING: TESTING & CERTIFICATION

A cladding forms a major exterior component of a building’s envelope and having cladding checks safeguards that it can cut

Beach House, Chennai, Cladding material - CenturyExteria HPL

Mondeal Heights at Ahmedabad, Architect - Blocher Blocher India Pvt. Ltd.

wind speeds and ensures that the rainwater does not seep through. These tests are certified to make sure that the protection and safety of the building and its inhabitants are the best. The cladding makes sure that the façade is air and watertight, fireproof, and strong enough to resist wind loads. While ensuring the safety and security of the cladding, these tests make sure that it offers impeccable protection to the building from external conditions. When it comes to buildings and their façade, several certifications help select the best product and material based on the purpose they are intended to serve, points out Mathur.

According to Mathur, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), for instance, is the authorised agency to certify wind load factors. For fire audits and safety certifications, the National Building Code has norms specified. So also, when energy savings and efficiency are certified, it is the Energy Conservation Building Code that specifies the guidelines to be met. In addition, products are also certified. In the case of aluminium panels, the materials may be ISO 9001 certified, indicating that the manufacturing processes too are inspected and audited.

Rounaq Choudhari too notes that various tests which are done on cladding are similar to what is done on unitised curtain wall panels. Air, water, fire, and structural tests are carried out at certified labs to conduct these tests and ensure the safety and security of the façade.

Khanna adds that ECBC deals with u-value or energy efficiency which includes cladding performance of a building. BIS 875 part 3 deals with wind load, while NBC deals with fire safety norms for cladding. ECBC deals with u-value or energy efficiency which includes cladding performance of a building. Technology also plays a very important role in the manufacturing stage. E.g. HPL panels that are manufactured using patented NT technology and are in accordance with EN438-6 and CE certified are most suitable for rear ventilated façade systems. The National Building Code (NBC) specifies that the surface flame spread index of cladding material should be less than 25 as per ASTM E 84, Class I. BIS standards for cladding materials follow the British norms of material classification for fire safety, to be rated as Class 1 as per BS 476 part 7, elaborates Khanna.

Generally, windload & water penetration tests are carried out for façades to ensure safety says Muthu Kumaran. For most of the cladding materials, there are certifications

Innovational cladding panels are mass-customisable, smart, and purpose-engineered:

l Customisable considering rigidity, texture, contour inserts l Superior considering energy efficiency, appearance, safety l Cuts lifetime operational & maintenance costs l Customisable to needs including regulatory, engineer l Customisable insulation for acoustic & thermal l Ultra-lightweight, super tensile-strong l Logistically efficient, waterproof & airtight l Enhanced economical-life-span, cost-effective

(Rounaq K. Choudhari, Director, Glass Wall System (I) Pvt Ltd)

Shree Verham Hall, Chennai, Material CenturyExteria HPL

such as EN DIN or ASTM Standards and also the EPD (Environmental Product declaration) is necessary, he adds.

According to Shankho Chowdhury, EN 438- Part 6 is the globally accepted European standard, which specifies a meticulous list and methods of tests that are relevant to this category. It applies to the Exteriorgrade Compact laminates of thickness 2 mm and greater produced by using a high-pressure and hot press process. One must check out the compliances before deciding on the brand. Apart from this tests on the colour fastness and environmental safety are also to be done.

Rounaq Choudhari notes that for certification, factors like physical characteristics of the materials, such as structural, chemical, and thermal resistance, are considered; economic factors, such as initial construction, maintenance, and removal costs, are considered; and durability factors, such as the type and frequency of defects that occur in the cladding material, are also considered.

Stringent green building regulations and codes such as bodies like ISO, LEED, etc. to test the material’s strength and durability.

the LEED and GRIHA certification, and ISO certification have made it mandatory for the manufacturers to forge a report testing the durability, shear strength, toughness, and numerous other factors to ensure the welfare of the building, points out Ar. Kadam. Hence, manufacturers have to get the materials certified by various

CHOOSING FIRE-SAFE CLADDING MATERIALS

Ensuring that a building is safe against fire is important from the aspect of human life and damage to property. The material to be used requires careful consideration because composite cladding panels have been observed to have contributed to the rapid spread of fire in the past. Hence, there is a need for fire-safe material which is non-combustible and has a lowdensity cladding core. One can be sure that the cladding material being considered for use is firesafe by opting for a product that will melt away and not further damage the fire, explains Mathur. Both aluminium and aluminium alloys do not burn or contribute to the combustion; they will instead melt. Aluminium is also reflective and offers twice the lower surface emissivity, which makes it a material that is fire-resistant, adds Mathur.

Fire-safe materials are the need of the hour. The fire incident in

IMAGE COURTESY - WIENERBERGER

Façade of a project with innovative sun-shading

cladding materials chosen for façades should meet very high fire standards. Clay is a very robust material that can withstand fire, as clay façade tiles are being fired at extremely high temperatures (up to ~ 1100 Degrees) during production. Clay façade tiles are classified under the A1 category – Non-Combustible and do not contribute to the development of fire. In the case of fire, neither toxic gases nor vapours may emerge. There will be no burning droplets and no smoke gas development from clay façade tiles. A1 is the highest possible rating.

The elevated gardens on the south-east are created out of grey cubescladded with wooden figured MCM while the walls are with brick cladding. A project by Prashant Parmar Architect

hospitals during the covid-19 pandemic has shaken the hearts of millions. As an important link of the construction industry, we, architects, have to be very selective & conscious about fire-safe materials, cautions Ar. Parmar. Fire safety is a very important aspect of cladding. There are premium quality HPL Panels (like CenturyExteria) available in the market which is ‘Class A’ fire retardant, complying with the standards of EN 438- Part 6 and ASTM E84. They are also bestowed with the ‘Greenguard’ certification, which ensures that the product is validly acceptable for use in ‘Green Buildings’ and other delicate environments such as schools and healthcare facilities, mentions Shankho Chowdhury.

To prevent the spread of fire, the system’s qualities and the materials used in the construction are critical, sensitizes Rounaq Choudhari. He adds that according to the European standard EN 13501-1, all construction materials must state their fire resistance. Natural slates from CUPA PIZARRAS have been classified as A1, the highest certification for non-combustible materials.

According to Muthu Kumaran,

CLADDING MATERIALS FOR FUTURE FAÇADES

According to Ar. Verma, the use of smart materials and smart geometries that could inherently lead to a performative aspect to reach the sustainability goals of a project, and this would form the future of façades.

Ar. Kadampoints out that it is essential to choose a material that is impervious to the macroclimate of the site location, to create a comfortable space, with optimum energy consumption.

Ar. Parmar insists that façades

IMAGE COURTESY - GLASS WALL SYSTEM

Wankhede Stadium at Mumbai, Architects P.K. Das & Shashi Prabhu.

The Temple School, Chennai; Material CenturyExteria HPL

Building Material Class

Class A

Class B

(Source: Wienerberger India)

Ration

A1 A2 A3 Fireproof material

B1 Not easily flammable B2 Flammable B3 Easily flammable

Fire Resistant Panels for Cladding

The recent legislation in the UK following the aftermath of the Grenfell tragedy clearly states that BS class A panels and class B panels with non-combustible insulation are safe to use in buildings. These categories do not aid in the spread of the fire which is of paramount importance to the fire safety of the buildings. However, no material should be selected in isolation and due care should also be shown to design the complete system fire-resistant rather than just assembling a set of ‘firerated’ materials

As NBC stipulated, the Flame Spread Index (FSI) on the surface of the cladding material has to be considered. Exterior grade laminates are flame retardant material that does not propagate fire. Windows and glazing junction areas are vulnerable areas from which fire can spread into the overall building. Covering them with a fire seal reduces the scope of fire spread on the façade or into the building.

Every country or region follows a different fire classification. Max Exterior cladding systems are certified according to ASTM E 84, BS 476 Part 7, NFPA 285, BBA certification, etc.

(Ashwani Khanna, VP, Marketing & HR, Fundermax)

Experience Center - A project by rat[LAB] Studio

Innovative Parametric designs by rat[LAB] Studio

with Energy Efficiency Index (EEI) should be introduced. “We all have star ratings of electrical equipment like 5 stars, 4 stars, etc. Just like that, we should introduce the EEI (Energy Efficiency Index) for cladding materials. In this way, the developer can attract customers to use the environment-friendly building. Also, for individual houses, selecting the high EEI cladding in façades help the occupier save more energy. The government

ESIC Hospital at Coimbatore

The Shaded House - A multitude of massive frames at various levels & semi-covered green terraces, getting animated with the play of light. A project by Prashant Parmar Architect

bodies also need to make this move forward to keep the earth greener for generations to come,” he suggests.

Muthu Kumaran is all for façade panels that can generate electricity (PV based panels in façade) also automatic louvre systems (moves based on the sun path to optimise the daylight and ventilation)

Khanna too agrees that energyefficient façades are the future. Façades with anti-microbial surfaces that are easy to clean are gradually becoming a mandate in the market. A rear ventilated façades system will continue to be a preferred alternative because of its natural ventilation property, which is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of infection and/or airborne microbes. The future of façades will be about it being dynamic or responsive in outlook, avows Mathur. The days of static façades are over. Versatile materials like aluminium will make the outer skin of a building come alive to make the façade look much like an integral part of the building design itself in the time to come, adds Mathur.

According to Rounaq Choudhari, the future of façade design is in high-efficiency and energyconserving materials. Green energy is the future along with the adoption of technology to move ahead in this part of the industry is the key to the future!

Orchid Hotel at Pune

CONCLUSION

Cladding is the most significant way of generating fascinating, distinctive, and attractive façades. It not only protects the outside of your home from the elements, but it is also the most important method for creating interesting, unique, and beautiful façades.

Architects and designers

India Oil Corporation Ltd at Lucknow; Product- Wienerberger Delhi Metro Rail Corporation - Red Line - 14 stations completed. Wienerberger products used

nowadays utilise a variety of innovative wall cladding materials to give each building a distinct fascinating aspect. When it comes to designing façades, a lot of studies are done to ensure that the correct sort of material is used to reduce environmental impacts and enhance the life, energy, and performance of a structure.

A right cladding material and a well-designed cladding contribute to improving a building’s thermal performance, minimise air leakage, reducing maintenance costs, and maximise natural daylighting. Poor design or installation, on the other hand, can jeopardise the cladding’s functionality and may pose a safety risk.

Kinematic Façades are the Future

Cladding of buildings is one of the most expressive, inspiring and complex aspects of building design. The basic function of an envelope or enclosure of a building or structure is to protect the covered or otherwise conditioned interior spaces from the surrounding environment.

FOUR MAJOR TRENDS IN EXTERIOR WALL CLADDING

Demand for fire-resistant, thermal resistant, and water-resistant, soundproof cladding systems is growing in the market. Innovative, eco-friendly cladding materials are preferred in the market as a consumer is becoming more environmentally concerned.

Fibre cement boards, HPL (High-Pressure Laminate), kinetic façade, and perforated parametric designs are major trends in exterior wall cladding.

MOST PREFERRED CLADDING METHODS

Kinetic façades are the most preferred cladding material as they

AR. KHUSHI JOSHI

Architect, Design2Occupancy

can be used to manage light, air, energy, and even information and can act to reduce the solar gain as well as allow the passage of fresh air into the building, helping to alter the interior environment. The moving elements of these façades can be programmed to respond to climatic or other environmental factors, time, levels, type of occupancy and so on to improve performance and efficiency. A kinetic façade is an extension of the idea that a building's envelope is an active system rather than just a container. Demand for such smarter and eco-friendly cladding methods is growing and consumer is becoming more environmentally concerned.

CLADDING TO REGULATE DAYLIGHT & VENTILATION

The opening design on building façades has a great influence on daylighting, solar heat gain and natural ventilation, which are closely related to the lighting and air conditioning energy consumption. The façades also contribute to enhancing a building’s thermal performance. A ventilated façade offers many advantages in energy savings, acoustic insulation, and safeguarding the building structure. This element provides the building with a gap between its perimeter wall and the exterior cladding. Its primary purpose is to moderate the exchange of heat, air, and light that circulates between the interior and exterior of the building. The energy efficiency of the building is due to the continuous exterior insulation and the ventilated chamber, this eliminates thermal bridges due

Agartala Airport

IMAGE COURTESY - DESIGN2OCCUPANCY Wave Hotel Indana Palace

to the uninterrupted insulation throughout the base enclosure.

INTELLIGENT AND RESPONSIVE CLADDING

An intelligent façade is defined as the use of an energy control system that reacts to change in external conditions and has a history at least as long as the invention of the rheostat. The intelligent building skin is to optimise the buildings relative to climate, energy balance and human comfort typically based on predicative models. Kinetic façades are significantly contributing towards the reduction of energy consumption, enhancement of the building energy and environmental performance enrichment of user's visual and thermal comfort whole ultimately, mitigating the environmental hazards. Kinetic façades are ideally significant to design and develop façades that are interactive and responsive to the environmental attributes. These façades as a part of the intelligent façades can adjust their shapes, form, orientation or openings to automatically respond to the environmental parameters including the temperature, humidity, wind etc..

SMART CLADDING MATERIAL TECHNOLOGIES

A façade can be considered smart when it adapts to environmental conditions and transforms itself simultaneously. This happens through its components (passive or active), which adjust to adapt to different conditions, responding to changes that occur on the outside and inside of the building.

SageGlass is an electrochromic glass from Saint-Gobain. By modifying the applied stress on the glass sheet, it is possible to control its colour and consequently change the light intensities and transmitted ultraviolet and infrared radiation will have through these materials. That is, this dynamic glass allows building users to actively control natural light and solar heat gain, improving comfort and significantly reducing energy consumption. Dynamic glass tinting is driven by an intelligent control system that uses sensors to automatically tint in response to light conditions. But you can also control the appearance from a mobile phone. It is important to mention that the main benefit is the ability to maintain contact with the outside view through the glass.

CLADDING FOR SAFETY AND SECURITY OF FAÇADE

The norms and standards to be followed are the one by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Generally, the cladding material, which is selected, is based on the test and quality certificate provided by the vendors. If further quality control is required, independent labs must confirm the materials test for the physical samples.

For cladding materials, the U-factor and SHGC are important criteria, those are governed and mandated by ECBC as well. Experts conduct testing on a variety of products and cladding materials, both at the pre-construction phase for design validation and on-site. Cladding and façades are tested for

IMAGE COURTESY - DESIGN2OCCUPANCY

Anamika Kala Sangam Trust Kolkata

IMAGE COURTESY - DESIGN2OCCUPANCY

Aspirations Grandeur Apartment Kolkata The Following Tests are Performed on Cladding Materials: • AAMA 501.1-17 – Standard test method for water penetration of windows, curtain walls and doors using dynamic pressure • AAMA 501.5 – Test method for thermal cycling of exterior walls • AAMA 508 – The test is to evaluate the ability of the wall cavity to achieve pressure-equalisation with the exterior • AAMA 509 – Test and classification method for drained and back ventilated rain screen wall cladding systems

air leakage, water penetration, and structural characteristics including racking.

CHOOSING FIRE-SAFE CLADDING MATERIAL

Today, ensuring you select façade materials that meet fire resistance standards is crucial. This is because façade-spread is one of the fastest ways in which a fire travels through buildings. The properties of the system and materials utilised in the construction are vital to prevent the spread of fire.

CLADDING MATERIALS FOR FUTURE FAÇADES

Kinematic façades are the future. They are dynamic and adaptive and can be made up of materials such as exterior grade laminates. They can be sun-shading systems based on the elastic kinematic principle.

Architects and engineers need to consider many issues when working with envelope designs, including environmental issues, aesthetic appearance, occupant comfort,

Agartala Airport – another view

To ensure cladding material is fire resistant test is done. The following are the steps of the test done: Step 1. The sample is received along with detailed drawings of the system. Step 2. Before and during the Installation, evidence is gathered to correlate the sample submitted with the drawings. Step 3. Samples are carefully installed onto a frame representing the standard conditions. Step 4. The system is loaded with thermocouples and sensors which will help capture changes in temperature and other parameters to be recorded. Step 5. The furnace is fired up. It is designed to simulate the increase in temperature and pressure as it would progress in case of a real fire Step 6. The test sample is carefully monitored throughout the test for various parameters like changes in deflection of structure, rate of change of temperature, the behaviour of the material, the release of gases, etc. Step 7. The test ends in confirming the fire rating of the Curtain Wall System in minutes till which the system could withstand a real fire. (Example 120 minutes of fire rating) Step 8. A test report is compiled and issued capturing the behaviour of the system during the test as per the test standard. The above is a product level quality check and is the starting point to prove compliance with future performance of the product or systems in a given environment. Testing with many combinations of systems, materials and environments may be necessary before the design can be claimed to perform as per desired expectations in unique environments. and view; these aspects make the envelope a multifunctional component, thus the integration approach is the optimal method to address envelope design. In the last `decade we have witnessed the inclusion of the kinetic envelope in many typologies of buildings. Many scholars believe the kinetic envelope improves the environmental performance of the building. A kinetic façade is one that changes dynamically rather than being static or fixed, allowing movement to occur on a building’s surface. This helps to create what the architect Buckminster Fuller called a ‘skin-like articulation’ effect and is an extension of the idea that a building's envelope is an active system rather than just a container. The moving elements of the façade can be programmed to respond to climatic or other environmental factors, time, levels and type of occupancy and so on to improve performance and efficiency. With advances in sensors, materials and building management technology, designers are increasingly able to consider kinetic components as design solutions.

"Cladding Materials Should be Chosen Wisely"

AR. NILANJAN BHOWAL

Principal Architect, Design Consortium, New Delhi

Cladding forms the very first impression of any building and it is a crucial feature that not only protects the building but at the same time enhances the space aesthetically. Cladding can be considered as the first impression of a building that will form an image in the eyes of the visitor.

With fast-changing times, numerous trends are coming into fashion, leaving the users with a wide variety to choose from. Zinc cladding offers a fresh cladding material that can transform the look of a building. Zinc panels are durable and because of their sustainable quality have a more positive impact. It does not rust or corrode and offers flexibility in achieving the desired shape making it popular for façade cladding. Zinc panels have a modern outlook and also cater to the environment since they can be re-used and recycled. This characteristic makes it quite popular with sustainable architecture gaining more importance in the current times.

Exposed concrete used in Vara, Orissa

Arora residence - façade with terracotta jaali

Another cladding material that fascinates me is Cor-ton Steel. Because of the orange, rust-like appearance, it creates an interesting visual appeal. This material eliminates the need for paint and strikingly stands out in Modern Architecture. Hence, this durable material, with zero maintenance is now being considered a good option.

At the same time, exposed concrete is becoming quite a common trend though it was first used by Corbusier in the 1950s. It

gives a clean, simple and minimalist look. Along with a smooth finish, it offers the advantage of the material itself where it can take any form and shape. Facades made with concrete are durable and versatile that help us achieve inspirational designs making the building appear timeless.

As seen in many of my projects, nature plays an extremely important role. When designing buildings, kinetic facades offer intelligent and responsive cladding alternatives. Kinetic metal facades allow for the movement of fresh air into the building causing natural ventilation. They cater to the interior environment of the building naturally and are dynamic to look at. Especially for large buildings, a kinetic metal façade creates an interesting sun shading system.

Smart cladding materials are the ones that allow for energy efficiency. The selection of material for facades contributes primarily to the overall insulation of the building. Therefore, I strongly believe that sustainability should be the prime focus while selecting cladding material in future designs.

Cladding materials should be chosen wisely based on their performance while the key factors one must consider for selecting

Dhall residence with Zinc cladding done on façade Jammu ropeway, Jammu Kashmir cladding material are the material’s resistance to seismic conditions, wind pressure(especially for high rises), fire resistance, pollution, application etc. Location is another extremely important criterion to consider while choosing cladding material since it encompasses the weather conditions, temperatures and surrounding area of the location. Locally available materials should be preferred for cladding as the transportation gets reduced, hence minimizing the fuel consumption and they also give the building a regional uniqueness. Certain standards like ISO 14001, FSC certification, and IGBC certificate are important to look at, before the selection of cladding materials. ISO 14001 ensures that the cladding material manufacturer practices the use of an environment-friendly manufacturing process. IGBC (Indian Green Building Council) is a certification that guarantees regular maintenance of manufacturing equipment and keeps toxins and emissions under check. The Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is another essential globally recognized certification system that checks that the wood used in cladding is consumed accountably and tree species do not get extinct. OHSAS 18001 controls and reduces occupational risks of health and safety in the workplace and therefore is an important standard. Considering the above standards and certification systems while choosing the cladding material is of great importance.

Choosing materials that are fire retardant is essential to ensure minimum damage in case of a fire outbreak. Fire-resistant and fire protective safety glass are available that can be used as a highperformance product that meets building code requirements. Flame Spread Index (FSI) is specified by the NBC (National Building Code) which is important and a certificate from Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) should be checked while selecting cladding material.

As a green architect, I would like to consider using a traditional material rendered in a contemporary way. The combination of colours and texture highlights the façade design and steel grey metal in contrast with thermo pine wood is one such combination. Jaali fenestration has been prevalent since early times in construction. This is one of the most effective ways of natural ventilation in façade design. Today, we have Jaalis that can be made in a variety of materials like GRC (Glass Reinforced Concrete) jaali. Terracotta jaali with charcoal grey is one example of modern and traditional amalgamation in facades.

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Pre-Engineered Concrete Elements are the Most Preferred Cladding Materials

Tell us about 4 major trends in exterior wall cladding?

Depending on the building type, there are different materials gaining interest and importance these days. For residential where quantities are small, stone, wood, brick/clay tiles and metal elements are preferred for achieving unique and customised design. For commercial buildings with large façades, material that is durable, easy to install and maintain, and more importantly achieves energy performance is gaining importance – these are tile cladding, concrete (more in case of pre-engineered elements), metal cladding, high-pressure laminates, etc.

Which one is your most preferred cladding material and why?

Pre-engineered Concrete elements as they can provide great strength and durability, speed of installation, and offer low maintenance and overall lower lifecycle cost. Moreover, preengineered elements can have embedded insulation, thereby

GURUPRAKASH SASTRY

Regional Head – Infrastructure, Infosys

providing high performance and fire safety without any loss of real estate. These elements are an integral part of the façade rather than an additional layer of covering.

What is the role of cladding in constructing sustainable buildings?

Cladding helps to achieve good thermal performance as it can enclose insulation material. Cladding can also provide shading if integrated with the overall

Infosys Bengaluru building with prefab concrete facade elements façade appropriately. Thereby enhancing energy efficiency and reducing operational costs of the building.

How can we use cladding technologies & materials to regulate daylight & ventilation? Cladding can be used effectively to control the openings on a building façade, for daylight as well as ventilation. Cladding can help in achieving the right window-wall ratio, act as shading elements to prevent direct sun, and can enhance the diffused natural light in the interiors using passive design techniques. Cladding integrated well with

the façade can ensure adequate ventilation openings without any impact on the aesthetics or the functionality of the façade. Sometimes, cladding systems can act as a second façade on the building, and if designed right, it induces ventilation in the space between the two facades – also known as ventilated façade.

Infosys Hyderabad building with dry cladding tiles

What do you mean by intelligent & responsive cladding?

Cladding should provide the functionality and performance of the building façade required for a specific location, climate or usage of the building. Effectively, the façade

and the cladding of a building should respond to the situation to ensure comfort for occupants as well as low operational energy costs. Passive techniques can be in the form of insulation, shading, double façade, etc., Whereas active techniques can be in the form of movable shades, photochromic/ electrochromic glass, that respond in real-time to the prevailing situation.

What are the various tests done on cladding to ensure the safety and security of the façade?

Building façade/external cladding system may be exposed to adverse climatic conditions and therefore need to be tested for safety, strength and durability. Off-site performance testing of the façade elements can ensure structural stability (w.r.t wind loads), airtightness (i.e., air infiltration/exfiltration) and water tightness (i.e., water ingress from the exterior). These tests are a validation of the façade design to withstand external elements, ensure the stability of the building

Infsoys Mysuru building with conrete, blockwork and GFRC

façade, and avoid maintenance issues and deterioration related to air/water leakage from the façade.

Please brief on the need for choosing fire-safe cladding materials? How can we ensure that the cladding material is fire resistant?

Fire safety is crucial for all building materials. More so in the case of cladding materials as the cladding can cover multiple floors or an entire building in many

Infosys Pune building with HPL cladding cases. Selecting fire-safe cladding materials can avoid the possibility of fire and contain the fire if caused by other elements within the building. In cases where insulation is a part of cladding, it is essential to select fire-safe insulation options (like class ‘O’) available today. It is also important to ensure fire safety through design. Providing fire isolation at regular intervals (for ex., between floors) and ensuring materials like insulation are fully enclosed, can avoid the spread of fire.

What are your visions for cladding materials for future facades?

Building façade should dynamically respond to the climate and play a pivotal role in ensuring high-performance buildings. Façade cladding should offer creative freedom to the designers to ensure the correct balance between form and function. Apart from being fire safe and durable, cladding systems should adopt environmentally sustainable, recyclable, locally sourced materials as much as possible, moving towards sustainable buildings and a circular economy. We can also expect to see greater adoption of vertical gardens in the urban landscape, and the design of façades accordingly to cater to this trend.

“Intelligent Building Façade Systems Strike a Balance Between Daylight Ingress and Reduction of Heat Gain”

Tell us about four major trends in exterior wall

cladding? Structural Glazing – Glass envelopes for the built blocks allow for a sleek modern façade, add to the aesthetics of the building, let the light in and also protect the interior of the place from weather conditions.

Natural cladding for aesthetic -

Stone cladding, ceramic cladding, tile cladding, and terracotta cladding. Natural stone cladding was one of the traditional choices and has started to gain popularity once again. This material has an earthy look and unrivalled beauty. Its extreme durability and long lifespan and fire resistance.

Metal sheet cladding - The Aluminium, Copper and Zinc cladding sheets do more than just provide the skin of the building with a smooth and durable finish. It is corrosion resistant and is available in a wide variety of choices.

Wood and marble textures-

Wood and Marble claddings are

NILESH DONGRE

Vertical Head – Developer Spaces, Edifice Consultants Pvt Ltd.

virtually maintenance-free and give a different feel to a building – slightly more formal yet delicate depending on the design.

Which one is your most preferred cladding material and why?

Based on the typology, structural glazing is the most preferred material for commercial buildings. Over the last fifty years’ glass technologies for buildings have

Taj Resort & Spa, Rishikesh - Local stone and timber cladding undergone radical changes and extended the functions and applications of glazing in modern architecture. The continuous improvement in thermal insulation performance, combined with new methods of modulating solar heat and light transmission, glazing has strengthened its position as an essential construction material for low energy buildings.

What is the role of cladding in constructing sustainable buildings?

The world is currently witnessing interest in environmental issues and awareness of the environment, sustainable development systems,

Victor MTB3- Bangalore; Fritted orange glass panels

and green buildings, with the aim of making the most of the environmental resources, rationalising energy consumption, and obtaining a clean environment and the materials of cladding play a role in achieving this. The modern materials of the cladding require minimal maintenance, should provide comfort to the residents,