A Deep Dive Into Recladding: What is it and When Do You Need It?


Cladding is the outer layer of a building’s exterior walls and is a key component of the broader “facade” of a structure.

Cladding products, when functioning properly, are generally designed to serve three important purposes:

  1. To add to the aesthetic design of a building,
  2. To protect internal building materials, and
  3. To regulate temperature for thermal efficiency

However, as is to be expected, many building cladding products will often fall short in one, or multiple of these key metrics over time.

Hence the need for “re”cladding.

What is recladding?

Recladding is where the existing building cladding is removed and replaced by an alternative cladding material that not only better serves the desired purpose but (as will be discussed) is Australian regulation-compliant as well.

In this article, we take a deep dive into the three key reasons for recladding to further understand what it is, and when it would be appropriate (or even necessary).

3 reasons for recladding

Here are the most common causes for the need to reclad a building.

1. Recladding for aesthetics

As a highly visible component of a residential building or commercial structure, cladding products vary significantly in terms of their colour, patterns and overall design.

As with any stylistic feature, many products will become outdated over time with owners hoping to create a more modern look and feel.

While this may seem like a simple cut-and-paste process of removing the original cladding and replacing it with the newly designed style, there are many important regulations to consider. For example, major colour changes require council approval in many states and jurisdictions such as NSW.

As a result, it’s best to understand what your local recladding regulations are and to take these into account when deciding whether or not to reclad as well as how you may go about it.

If you are looking for a helping hand through this journey, or are interested in an aesthetically pleasing option for recladding, look no further than ALPOLIC™ NC/A1 which is available in a wide variety of appealing colours and styles.

2. Recladding for functionality and energy efficiency

As with any external building material, cladding is often worn down by the elements or damaged by other means. Under these circumstances, recladding is not only recommended but often required to protect the more fragile elements of the building.

Outside of general functionality, however, a common reason for recladding is to improve the thermal efficiency of a building or other structure – that is, the ability of cladding to retain warmth in winter and cooling in summer.

While effectiveness may vary between materials, an effective recladding product such as ALPOLIC™ has a design life of 50+ years, and its mineral core is very effective in minimising thermal conductivity, creating a sturdy barrier between the interior and exterior of the building and therefore assisting to regulate indoor temperatures.

Ultimately, recladding your building or commercial space with more energy-efficient cladding products is an integral step toward cutting energy bills over the long term and keeping tenants comfortable.

3. Recladding for non-compliant cladding

One of the most common reasons for recladding and the one we service most often is when current cladding materials are considered non-compliant with jurisdictional regulations around flammable cladding cores and fire-resistance capabilities.

After a recent global spike in combustible cladding causing high-rise building fires, stricter regulations have been put into place. This means that many Australian cladding products currently on buildings are now considered non-compliant and need to be replaced.

In this circumstance, ignoring the need for recladding is illegal

While different Australian state regulatory bodies have very different rules, the general rule is that any cladding containing more than 30% combustible material is considered dangerous and must be remediated.

For more detailed information about whether this affects you or your business, read our next article, A Strata Managers Guide to Recladding for Multi-Residential Buildings.

In the meantime, if you would like to determine the legality of your cladding, we suggest consulting an expert local fire engineer for an official cladding assessment to gather a report of your specific circumstances including the presence of any non-compliant cladding and how much may need to be replaced.
For an effective recladding option, Network Architectural offers our clients ALPOLIC™ NC/A1, a fire-safe, fully compliant, aluminium composite cladding that is an approved product on Project Remediate NSW and comes with an industry leading comes with a 20-year FULL manufacturer’s replacement warranty that covers material, labour and rectification costs for faulty materials.

Looking for a compliant and effective product to reclad your building?

If you’re concerned about your cladding or looking for the right recladding solution, then you’ve come to the right place.

As always, it’s best to seek the expertise of a trusted and well-established cladding supplier that can provide you with the highest standard of cladding products.

At Network Architectural, we provide a large range of cladding products, all backed by large and reputable companies that provide manufacturer warranties like ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd.

For further information on our cladding offers, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

We can’t wait to become your partner to success for all your building and construction projects.

Cladding Products Warranties: 6 Important Questions You Need to Ask

Choosing the right building cladding products is crucial to ensure you have a high-quality protective layer on the external surface of your building or construction project.

This is why, when it comes to architectural cladding, Builders, Architects and Construction Professionals typically consider multiple factors, including:

  • the degree of thermal insulation
  • weather resistance
  • overall appearance

However, one thing you must never overlook is a cladding product’s warranty.

Cladding warranties give you the confidence that you’re getting the best value for your budget, while also providing you with peace of mind that the cladding products will stand the test of time.

Since cladding is a long-term decision for any property, it’s necessary to select cladding products that are guaranteed to deliver excellent results – today and long into the future.

In this article, let’s discuss the 6 questions you should ask (or perhaps insist on!) in relation to warranties on cladding products.

The importance of warranties on cladding products

Cladding products are offered with warranties to reassure customers like you that they are free from defects and will continue to be resilient for years to come.

Warranties on cladding products also safeguard you from the hassle and costs that can come with managing cladding repairs and maintenance.

Just keep in mind, though that not all cladding products warranties are the same.

For instance, Network Architectural offers our clients the ALPOLIC™ NC/A1 cladding panel product, which is a fire-safe, fully compliant, aluminium composite cladding that comes with a 20-year FULL manufacturer’s replacement warranty that covers material, labour and rectification costs for faulty materials.

Some cladding products, however, may have warranties that are limited in scope, timeframe or benefits.

So, what should you take into account when it comes to assessing cladding product warranties? We’ve listed 6 key questions to guide you.

6 questions to ask about cladding products warranties

1. Who is providing my warranty?

Many cladding products on the market have warranties that are provided by local agents or distributors.

This may seem fine but what if they go out of business tomorrow, next week, next month or next year? Or what if they change their business name or discontinue stocking cladding lines? You don’t want any of these instances to prevent you from making a valid claim.

So, what you should do is check whether your cladding product’s warranty is backed by the right manufacturers that you can pursue if any problem occurs.

For instance, ALPOLIC™ NC/A1 is known for its industry-leading, 20-year full replacement manufacturer warranty that ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd themselves provide.

2. Where does my warranty come from?

All manufacturers have problems from time to time – but you want to deal with the ones who stand behind their products, stand behind their agents and distributors, and ultimately, stand beside you if there is ever a problem.

So, ask yourself this question: “Am I confident that the manufacturer of my cladding products will stand beside me to resolve any possible issue I may have in the future?”

ALPOLIC™ brand has been around for over 50 years and has been proven in Australian conditions for over 30 years.

This reflects ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd’s credible reputation and lasting commitment as a cladding manufacturer to provide the highest standards of quality and service when it comes to their products.

3. What does my warranty include and exclude?

While it may seem daunting, take the time to completely read cladding warranties so you’re aware of all their inclusions and limitations.

In fact, it’s much better if your manufacturer warranty does not include a number of exemption clauses that can put you at a disadvantage.

Unfortunately, while some cladding warranties will cover the panel, they won’t cover the labour to remove and replace them. This puts you at a potential loss.

At Network Architectural, we take pride in offering ALPOLIC™ NC/A1 because of its warranty’s full coverage which includes material, labour and rectification costs for faulty materials.

ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd, through providers and suppliers like us, ensures that, if you have to make a warranty claim, you have the assistance you need to take existing panels off and effectively put new ones on – all at no cost to you.

4. Do I need to keep records of cleaning and maintenance of panels to maintain my warranty?

Most cladding product warranties will insist on keeping records of your cleaning and maintenance procedures for the life of the warranty in order to remain valid. If this is not done, your cladding product warranties may become void.

Not all manufacturers will insist on this but it’s always worth the effort to check, especially if you need to comply accordingly.

With ALPOLIC™ NC/A1, the cladding product warranty has no cleaning or ongoing maintenance clauses.

5. Do the products I am using have 100% traceability?

100% traceability can assist the cladding manufacturer in identifying any issue that may occur with their supplied products, allowing you to make a warranty claim more easily.

A good example is ALPOLIC™ NC/A1. Every single panel has a unique code. If, for some reason, someone files a complaint with their cladding solution – ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd can efficiently track all products produced in the same batch.

As referenced by the new Australian Standard 5344, all cladding products should have permanent identification markings (not stickers) so that they can be 100% traceable back through the production process.

Unfortunately, this is not always the case. There are many cladding products sold in the Australian market that fall short of this basic “good practice” manufacturing.

6. Should I get a sample copy of the warranty before I place my order?

Absolutely! It is your right to see a copy of the ‘typical’ warranty document that will be available at the end of your project.

Furthermore, this is your opportunity to raise any questions or concerns you have – not only with the cladding product but also the warranty that comes with it.

Just make sure to get a manufacturer warranty as an agent’s or distributor’s warranty may not give you sufficient protection. Obtaining all the manufacturer’s details you need right from the start can also be helpful along the way.

Be mindful of suppliers and manufacturers who do not, or will not, provide this information.

Fortunately, you can rely on established manufacturers like ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd and suppliers like our team at Network Architectural to always offer a copy of the cladding warranty.

How to ensure you’re getting the right warranty

If you’re concerned about your cladding warranty or looking for the right cladding solution with a manufacturer warranty, then you’ve come to the right place.

As always, it’s best to seek the expertise of a trusted and well-established cladding supplier that can provide you with the highest standard of cladding products.

At Network Architectural, we provide a large range of cladding products, all backed by large and reputable companies that provide manufacturer warranties like ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd.

For further information on our cladding offers, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

We can’t wait to become your partner to success for all your building and construction projects.

Suspended Ceiling Systems Save the Day for Fairvale High School

A problem threatened to stall the building project when it was discovered that the nominated ceiling, approved by architect Collard Maxwell Architects (CMA), would not satisfy the conditional warranty for the school’s covered outdoor learning area (COLA). Knowing that our modern durlum metal ceiling range would meet all requirements, Installers Sydney Interiors recommended us for the job. As the only supplier of durlum ceiling products in Australia, Network Architectural has worked with Sydney Interiors on a range of commercial fit-out and refurbishment projects. Their experience and knowledge have often prevented common hiccups from occurring at building sites, thus avoiding and compounding delays.

“We knew the durlum team at Network Architectural would deliver. They know the building industry inside and out,” said Tony Milicevic, Project Coordinator for Sydney Interiors. “We also knew they would slot into the project because the builders used a Rondo subframe, which is common at many work sites these days. They helped us avoid delays from waiting for materials arriving from overseas.”

Fairvale High School’s architect CMA approved the durlum S7 rail channel system with double-hook (1200×600) rectangular panels because they fitted the design aesthetic whilst also incorporating storm clips to protect the ceiling against both uplift (wind) and ball impact. Fire-safe and fully compliant, the aluminium ceiling panel material is non-combustible and designed to incorporate acoustic materials to provide for the required NRC level nominated by architect specifications.

The rectangular metal panels hide the framing and substructure whilst also concealing service channels. They also add the capacity to accommodate daylight lighting systems. The sleek finish of the final product belies the complexity lying beneath the surface. Functionally effortless, the framing, installed early, gave other trades access to complete their work prior to the final installation of panels.

 

 

The durlum suspended ceiling system not only met the architect’s design brief but allowed it to progress with the building process without delay due to the integration of the durlum system with the Rondo subframe, this resulted in time savings.

Network Architectural is a proud supplier of this exclusive product. Its innovative design flexibility brings even the most complex and challenging projects to life. Versatile and sleek, durlum suspended ceiling systems have been used in airports, railway stations and shopping centres, office buildings, schools and outdoor structures both in Australia and internationally. It is the safer ceiling choice, favoured for its strength and for meeting the highest Australian safety standards and building codes. The powder coated finish provides resistance to water damage, mould, and mildew, making the ceilings easier to clean, which significantly reduced building maintenance and operational costs.

The durlum metal ceiling range is available in an array of colours, textures, perforations and finishes, and may be mixed and matched to meet any design aesthetic. The integrated ceiling-lighting solutions can be highly practical or configured to highlight design features and create ambience and a sense of space.

Whatever the design timeline, technical requirements and budget, the durlum and Network Architectural support team offer professional advice, detailed design concepts, and thorough project management.

See examples of designs here or download our latest project brochure, then get in touch. We have so much to offer on your next building project and can’t wait to get on the job and help you bring your vision to life.

Download this case study here.

Modern Ceiling Systems and Their Impact on Health and Wellbeing

The COVID-19 pandemic hit the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions the hardest. Throughout 2020 and 2021 it became clear that we need better healthcare spaces to not only stop the spread of infection but also to reduce the impact of social isolation amongst these groups. In this context, greater scrutiny is being placed on the design and construction of healthcare and aged care facilities and how they can improve the lives of patients and residents. High-performing and fit-for-purpose ceiling systems offer one of the most cost-effective ways to deliver improved health and wellbeing outcomes to the general population.

Designed for Healing: Modern Ceiling Systems and Their Impact on Health and Wellbeing addresses the capabilities of modern construction materials and their role in healthcare spaces, with a special focus on bespoke ceiling systems. We take a close look at three key themes driving the evolution of healthcare design: the patient experience, the shift away from large institutional layouts and the rising cost of construction. We discuss why building in flexibility and adaptability is the best design response to these challenges, and the importance of ceiling design in achieving overarching health and wellbeing objectives.

Network Architectural offer a comprehensive range of ceiling systems that are customisable down to the smallest area with zero minimum order quantities. Our offering includes durlum bespoke metal ceilings and OWA mineral fibre ceilings that offer superior hygienic properties that are robust, infinitely customisable with the only limit being the designer’s imagination.

Download this whitepaper and learn why high-performing and fit-for-purpose bespoke ceiling systems offer one of the quickest and most cost-effective ways to deliver improved health and wellbeing outcomes to the general population.

Urgent fire safety resolution for upmarket apartment non-combustible cladding

When a fire safety review was required for a large residential complex in Canberra, Risk Assessor Benjamin Hughes-Brown from Vortex Fire (formerly Ignis Solutions) investigated whether the current lightweight cladding was compliant and non-combustible. This is not an uncommon situation. A building may feature resort-like aesthetics but construction materials must stand up to Australian Fire Safety Standards.

This type of review requires in-depth analysis, starting with identifying the materials used on the building. “We would do a survey assessment on where the relevant materials are used and then run tests to identify whether it is non-combustible,” explains Benjamin from Vortex Fire. “If the material is proven to be unsafe and combustible, a total risk assessment is undertaken.”

“I’ve always found bodies corporate extremely proactive. They want the building to comply 100% to the Code – and not deviate – but they also need us to limit any disruption to tenants.”

Vortex Fire assessors work closely with project managers and bodies corporate to find the best solutions to replace existing, non-compliant material. This is always done by a fair and independent evaluation of products on the market that can be used wherever non-combustible materials are required.

“In the case of the Canberra apartment block, it came down to two lightweight cladding options,” said Benjamin. “In the end, the winner was not only compliant but had outstanding warranty and longevity.”

ALPOLIC™ NC/A1 from ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd was chosen for the apartment project for the following reasons:

  1. Ability to match existing colours so aesthetics weren’t compromised
  2. Warranty – The industry-leading full-cover unconditional warranty really shone through as did knowing that the warranty was backed by a globally trusted manufacturer and not a local distributor.
  3. Durability – The paint finish and longevity of ALPOLIC™ are exceptional and have been proven in Australian conditions for over 30 years
  4. Most importantly, the extensive local and international fire testing ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd has conducted on ALPOLIC™ NC/A1 well and truly exceeds the Code requirements.

“Beyond it being the right compliant non-combustible cladding, the process and expertise of Network Architectural, supplier of ALPOLIC™ NC/A1, has been fantastic,” said Ben. “The handling of the project was a testament to an expert understanding of complexities involved,” Benjamin said.

“We worked closely with Project Managers Dowse Projects, Wainwright Facades, and Vortex Fire to get the best possible outcome,” says Clint Gavin, National Sales Manager, Network Architectural.

“In the case of the Canberra apartment building, Project Coordination Australia commissioned Wainwright Facades to undertake the big job of removing the current flammable cladding and replacing it with the compliant, DtS non-combustible cladding ALPOLIC™ NC/A1. While initially several different cladding options were proposed, Wainwright Facades reiterated that ALPOLIC™ NC/A1 was ultimately chosen for its unrivalled warranty, quality, proven durability in Australia and compliance – having passed tests over and above what is required.”

Joseph Wainwright, Director at Wainwright Facades has worked in the industry for over 16 years. “While we have worked with ALPOLIC™ previously, this is the first time we have worked with ALPOLIC™ NC/A1. We found it very good to work with. All the guys in our fabrication workshop love it! It cuts well, we find it is easier on our drill bits, it is great to handle, and product performance is exceptional.”

Alex Shaughnessy, Project Coordinator from Project Coordination Australia had similar feedback on the product: “Because of the ease of manufacturing, cutting, and handling of ALPOLIC™ NC/A1, the project has run much smoother and more swiftly with short-term logistics. Because we are dealing with 330+ units and an existing client base, we’ve had to be reactive in some situations, and the ease of ALPOLIC™ to run through the machines has allowed us to respond to these issues easily.”

Alex couldn’t be happier with this result and is pleased that residents from the building have also openly commented on the finish of the product.


“Working with Network Architectural has been fantastic. I find them to be very accommodating and they know the building industry well and use this knowledge to make the process smoother,” said Joseph.

“Part of the requirement of the project was that the old cladding had to be removed and it needed to be recycled rather than go into landfill. Network Architectural was fantastic in assisting us with the best solution for this and offered a returning truck to Sydney to take the removed material back to the PanelCycle Recycling Centre. This ensured the project was better for the environment and streamlined the process.”

Network Architectural is the proud distributor of ALPOLIC™ NC/A1, the safest and most versatile aluminium cladding on the market. Its superior flatness and durability, and extensive selection of colours and finishes are all backed by rigorous testing for fire safety and compliance to meet Australia’s strict requirements and harsh weather conditions. ALPOLIC™ cladding comes with an industry-leading 20-year, unconditional, full replacement manufacturer’s warranty backed by ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd – no cleaning required! It gives both residents and developers reassurance that the building will stand the test of time.

Project Coordination Australia & Wainwright Facades both look forward to doing future remediation work with ALPOLIC™.

At Network Architectural, we are passionate about what we do. We listen, learn, and always strive to improve and innovate, helping our clients find the best solution for their specific designs and project priorities. Get in touch today with our highly skilled and experienced team for your next project.

Download this case study here.

Metal Ceilings Future-Proof New Sydney Education Precinct

Winner of two awards at the 2022 World Architecture Festival (Colour and Completed Buildings), architects Woods Bagot designed the precinct to fit into the natural landscape and provide a future-focused, agile learning environment to replace Meadowbank Public and Marsden High schools. “The judge came up and said that “it was so easy” [to choose the winner] because “there was a joy in everything” we did,” said Design Leader and Principal at Woods Bagot, Ian Lomas.

The precinct connects students from starting school in Kindergarten through to finishing high school, the architect’s goal was to provide an environment in which students could identify and feel a sense of belonging and community. “Creating a sense of scale and diversity of spaces for kids of all ages has been an important consideration,” the architect added.

With commercial interiors company X-clusive Group Australia Pty Ltd appointed as the successful contractor, Network Architectural, the exclusive distributor of durlum was approached for the metal ceilings, as they could provide the flexibility and modern aesthetics required to match the diversity of colours and design themes required by Woods Bagot. One such challenge was to meet a curved feature brick profile using corrugated feature panels in a range of colour themes within the various learning areas and external access corridors.

“We thought that the technology and design capabilities behind metal ceilings from durlum was everything the architects were looking for – and when they saw the product samples, they did too,” says X-clusive Group Australia Pty Ltd.

Woods Bagot and X-clusive Group Australia Pty Ltd worked closely with durlum designers to create a range of bespoke ceilings that would match the design brief, specifications and budget. The treated metal systems are engineered to last with coatings that provide protection from the elements and ease of cleaning and maintenance. The product is also rigorously fire-safety tested and complies with both Australian Standards and Building Codes.

The metal ceilings included elements of galvanized steel, aluminium, and stainless steel. All steel and aluminium components were supplied powder-coated in an array of colours and the mirror finished stainless steel was supplied with a textured finish for visual effects, all covered by durlum’s product warranty.

The 6,500m2 of bespoke metal ceilings for the Meadowbank Education Precinct look sleek and modern and stand up to the high design standards of concept architecture. The following metal ceilings were selected:

  1. Covered passageways and outdoor learning areas are lined with colour-matched 2mm  multi-coloured bespoke corrugated aluminium panelling to match the feature brickwork
  2. Covered outdoor learning areas (designed for reflection) are lined with 1mm pressed stainless steel panels in a peaceful cloud pattern using durlum’s S7 double hook on system
  3. The gymnasium ceiling consists of colourful, heavy-duty 3mm large-format mesh panels using durlum’s S7 double hook system incorporating locking clips to secure the panels against possible ball impact or wind uplift
  4. Recessed bespoke black service channels in 2mm aluminium were designed to incorporate into the durlum’s S7 system for both the gymnasium and community hall areas
  5. The community hall is lined with 3mm large-format aluminium S7 system mesh panels similar to the gymnasium
  6. Both gymnasium and community hall ceilings incorporate matching perimeter fascia panels that conceal services in the plenum space.
  7. All system components are fully recyclable

Despite the Covid period proving difficult for builders sourcing building materials, the supply contract was fulfilled on time and within budget. Throughout the process both Network Architectural’s and durlum’s design teams worked closely with Woods Bagot and X-clusive Group Australia Pty Ltd, matching ceiling and wall panels with colours and themes and developing conceptual designs, CAD drawings, prototypes, and shop drawings allowing the
metal ceilings to fit seamlessly with existing structures.

“The project management style was meticulous and end-to-end, which meant we never had a problem that couldn’t be solved. The local support and access to the durlum design team was ideal for projects of this size and they have already been introduced and specified onto the next major school project by us,” says Damian Vella, Project Manager for Roberts Co.

Network Architectural is the exclusive distributor of durlum metal ceilings in Australia, which leads the industry in innovative, versatile metal ceilings. We have many years of experience in the building industry, using products from the durlum range in airports, railway stations, shopping centres, office buildings, schools and outdoor structures.

We listen to your needs and understand your pain points and provide a finish that is beautiful, functional, and inviting. Get in touch today. Our highly experienced and skilled team is ready to work with you on your next ceiling project.

Download this case study here.

Fire protection on building exteriors – How to de-risk facade selection

The use of combustible cladding on high-rise buildings has come under increased scrutiny ever since the Grenfell and Lacrosse tower fires. In the years following, the need for fully compliant Deemed-to-Satisfy non-combustible cladding materials has grown exponentially. In response, the New South Wales (NSW) government has created an important oversight panel for this issue, as well as a funding program called Project Remediate to help building owners who are required to replace combustible cladding on their residential buildings.

Fire Protection on Building Exteriors: How to De-Risk Facade Selection discusses the development of Project Remediate, and how it is helping building owners and designers identify fire-safe, fully compliant cladding and reduce risk during the facade selection process. In this paper, we look at what Project Remediate is and the role of the Cladding Product Safety Panel. We then examine the types of facade products that should be used when replacing combustible cladding and what requirements they need to meet, with a focus on fire safety, structural adequacy, durability, and weather tightness.

Network Architectural presents ALPOLIC™ NC/A1, a fully compliant aluminium cladding product that has satisfied all testing requirements for the Project Remediate recladding scheme. This product was introduced exclusively for the Australian construction market and has been scientifically proven to be the safest aluminium facade product in real-life fire tests around the world.

Download this white paper to learn more.

ALPOLIC™ NC/A1’s extraordinary safety and sustainability profile

Launched in early 2019, ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd ALPOLIC™ NC/A1 has since become the gold standard for non-combustible cladding. Four years in the making, this stand-out product is an outcome of a close partnership between ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd and Network Architectural, and has been designed specifically for Australia.

Network Architectural’s flagship product, ALPOLIC™ NC/A1 mineral core barrier composite panel is manufactured by ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd and fully compliant with the relevant building codes and regulations in Australia, explains ​​Llewellyn Regler, Technical Manager at Network Architectural. “It has obtained A1 classification according to the European fire protection standard EN 13501-1, which is the highest rating in what is considered to be one of the most stringent component fire test standards in the world,” Llewellyn adds. “To my knowledge, ours is the only aluminium composite panel in the world that actually meets that standard.”

This exceptional fire safety profile of the non-combustible product is matched by its outstanding sustainability credentials. Underscored by ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd’s very own sustainability philosophy – encapsulated by the notion of “Kaiteki” – and verified through an Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) produced by Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA), ALPOLIC™ NC/A1 is manufactured in an environmentally conscious manner.

“ALPOLIC and its affiliated materials are 100% recyclable,” explains Mr Hee Kok Koon, General Manager ALPOLIC Division, ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd Chemical Singapore. “In our manufacturing plants, we recover both aluminium (other metals) and the core material for recycling, to keep an environment-friendly operation. Furthermore, our production plants of ALPOLIC are compliant with ISO14001, and also designated as a wide district industrial waste disposal facility. Therefore, we can take back scraps from customers for recycling in our facilities under the proper operating standard.”

But that’s not all – the product requires less energy to produce than solid aluminium, and saves more energy through its insulating properties. “Aluminium requires a substantial amount of energy to produce,” says Mr Hee Kok Koon. “However, ALPOLIC is more rigid than solid aluminium, which means it serves the same function while utilising 300% less aluminium. As a result, it saves more than half the electricity required to produce the solid aluminium panel of the equivalent rigidity.”

The environmental benefits continue after installation. “ALPOLIC reduces the building’s energy consumption due to its thermal insulation properties,” adds Mr Hee Kok Koon. “When the product is used for external or internal cladding, the air space between ALPOLIC and the backing wall forms a thermal insulation layer and increases the wall system’s energy conservation performance.”

On top of that, ALPOLIC™ NC/A1 comes with a ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd-backed 20-year full cover warranty. Considered to be one of the most comprehensive in the building industry, the robust warranty means that in the event of a defect caused by the manufacturer, ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd will replace it at no cost to the building owner.

Being the gold standard in non-combustible cladding and the safest product of this kind in the world – and boasting such an outstanding sustainability profile, it’s no wonder ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd ALPOLIC™ NC/A1 continues to be go-to for specifiers who require the best in non-combustible cladding. And, after several months of rigorous testing, ALPOLIC™ NC/A1, has now officially met all the testing requirements set out by the NSW State Government as a suitable and safe replacement product as part of the Project Remediate recladding scheme.

“The project will involve re-cladding all the type two residential buildings in New South Wales that have dangerous polyethylene cladding on them,” explains ​​Llewellyn. “It was an extensive testing process, and it’s an extensive project because around 225 buildings in New South Wales will have to be rectified as part of it.”

Press Release: ALPOLIC™ NC/A1 satisfies all testing requirements for Project Remediate

Network Architectural’s fully compliant aluminium cladding product, ALPOLIC™ NC/A1, has officially met all the testing requirements set out by the NSW State Government as a suitable and safe replacement product as part of the Project Remediate recladding scheme.

Network Architectural is pleased to announce that our fully compliant aluminium cladding product, ALPOLIC™ NC/A1, has now satisfied all testing criteria set out by the NSW State Government-appointed Cladding Product Safety Panel (CPSP) for use in their Project Remediate recladding scheme.

This means that all building owners registered with Project Remediate now have access to the world’s safest and most tested aluminium cladding product in ALPOLIC™ NC/A1 as a replacement product on their buildings as it has been deemed fire safe and compliant with all relevant regulations.

“I am pleased to say that the ALPOLIC NC/A1 now has successfully passed all of the stringent testing set out by the CPSP and has been granted the necessary documentation that ticks all the boxes for approval that are required for use in Project Remediate,” Clint Gavin, National Sales Manager for Network Architectural explains.

“Together with ALPOLIC™ by Mitsubishi Chemical Infratec Co., Ltd’s 20-year full rectification cover manufacturer’s warranty from a globally-trusted brand, this will provide total peace of mind when installing the world’s most successfully tested and safest aluminium facade material, ALPOLIC NC/A1.”

This approval comes after several months of rigorous testing in line with the standards set out by the CPSP in their November 2021 Industry Briefing in regard to further testing for Bonded Laminate Materials (BLMs).

For more, read our article: ALPOLIC™ NC/A1 meets all NSW Government testing requirements as a DtS non-combustible cladding for use in Project Remediate

We look forward to working together with building owners and industry stakeholders now and in the future to provide safe, fully tested cladding solutions for their construction projects.

For more information please contact:

Network Architectural
Clint Gavin
National Sales Manager
Email: clint@networkarchitectural.com.au
Phone: 0448 480 477