What is cladding? The definition of cladding indicates that it is a layer of material that is placed on a built structure or on any surface. Cladding forms part of architecture not only in terms of aesthetics but also in terms of structure because although it does not receive building loads, it conceals and protects the structure itself, isolating, delimiting and defining zones, activities and structural element.

There are various types of materials in market for cladding. We can not apply all the material in one building, we have to choose one. There are many factors to consider before choosing cladding material. And Considering Indian climatic conditions, one need to choose cladding having following properties:

  • Resistance to corrosion
  • Cleaning and maintenance

What are the materials used for cladding? There are varieties of cladding materials/ systems used these days, such as wood, concrete, glass, aluminium solid sheet, aluminium composite panels (FR grade A2), natural stones, stainless steel, terracotta, high pressure laminates (HPL), copper cladding, zinc cladding, fibre cement board cladding, Corian cladding, GFRC, etc.

Another very famous architectural term is Glazing. Now what is glazing? In the world of construction, glazing refers to the installation of glass in windows, doors, or any other fixed opening. Similarly, the market has a variety of options of glazing materials, which can be selected considering the following:

• The direct sunlight diffused through the material or transparency,

• The amount of light that comes through or visible transmittance,

• The amount of radiant heat transmitted through the material measured by solar heat gain coefficient

• The amount of heat from the air that will pass through the material, measured by the U-value of the assembly.

All this is done to make buildings which encourage healthy living and conserve nature. Today people are more concerned about nature and such concern for nature give rise to demand for The Breathing And Green Façade. The breathing and green façade in a high-rise structure aims to create green spaces closer to the users. The offices overlooking the gardens are equipped with openable windows to allow fresh breeze from these greens.

Read the article for detailed knowledge on glazing and cladding system.