Cladding refurbishment is the process of repairing, restoring, or upgrading the exterior cladding of a building to improve its appearance and performance. This typically involves cleaning, repairing damaged sections, and applying protective coatings to extend the lifespan of the cladding. Refurbishment enhances the building’s protection against environmental factors such as weather, corrosion, and pollutants. It is commonly undertaken to maintain structural integrity and improve the aesthetic appeal of industrial and commercial buildings.
What Is Cladding Refurbishment?
Cladding refurbishment is the process of repairing and upgrading the exterior cladding of a building to improve both its performance and appearance. It usually involves cleaning the surface to remove dirt, pollutants, and debris, followed by repairing any damaged areas such as cracks, rust, or worn sections. After these repairs, a protective or decorative coating is applied to restore the cladding’s shielding properties and refresh its appearance.
Refurbishment is essential for safeguarding the building against environmental damage, including weather exposure, UV radiation, and moisture, which can lead to corrosion and deterioration over time. Regular cladding refurbishment extends the lifespan of the building's exterior, ensuring it remains structurally sound and visually appealing. In industrial and commercial properties, refurbishment can lower maintenance costs and improve energy efficiency by enhancing the building’s insulation and reflective capabilities. For example, research from the British Coatings Federation suggests that well-maintained cladding can reduce energy costs by up to 20%. This process is vital for preserving both the durability and visual appeal of a property.
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What Are The Signs Commercial Cladding Restoration Is Needed?
The signs commercial cladding restoration is needed include noticeable deterioration such as rust, corrosion, or flaking paint, indicating the protective coating has worn away. Fading or discolouration of the cladding, often due to extended UV exposure, suggests the surface is no longer providing sufficient protection. Water penetration, leaks, or moisture damage, either inside or outside the cladding, point to a failure in its weatherproofing capabilities. Structural issues like cracks or warping also signal restoration is required to prevent further deterioration and ensure the building remains secure and visually appealing. Addressing these problems early can extend the lifespan of cladding by up to 20 years, reducing the need for expensive replacements, according to the British Coatings Federation (BCF) and the Steel Construction Institute (SCI).
- Peeling or Flaking Paint
- Visible Rust or Corrosion
- Fading or Discolouration
- Water Penetration or Leaks
- Cracks or Warping in the Cladding
1. Peeling or Flaking Paint
Peeling or flaking paint is one of the clearest indications cladding needs restoration. When the paint starts to degrade, the material beneath becomes exposed to elements like moisture and UV rays, hastening damage. This is particularly problematic for metal cladding, where peeling can cause cut edge corrosion, allowing rust to form and spread along unprotected areas. Timely restoration with a fresh coat is essential to prevent further corrosion and ensure the cladding remains strong and visually appealing.
2. Visible Rust or Corrosion
Rust or corrosion on metal cladding indicates a failure in the protective coating. Cut edge corrosion, where the edges of metal panels deteriorate, is common in commercial structures and can significantly weaken the cladding’s structural stability. If left untreated, corrosion may spread, leading to costly repairs or even replacement. Restoring the cladding with a high-quality coating can halt further rusting and prolong its lifespan. The Steel Construction Institute notes that addressing cut edge corrosion early can extend the life of cladding by up to 20 years.
3. Fading or Discolouration
Fading or discolouration suggests the cladding’s protective layer is losing effectiveness, usually due to long-term UV exposure. While this issue is often cosmetic, it indicates the coating may no longer provide sufficient defence against environmental factors. For commercial properties, a discoloured exterior can negatively impact the building’s professional image. Refurbishing the cladding with a new layer of protective paint can rejuvenate the building’s appearance and enhance its resilience to external conditions.
4. Water Penetration or Leaks
Water ingress or leaks are significant signs the cladding’s weatherproofing has failed. Moisture that penetrates the cladding can cause internal damage, mould, and insulation issues, affecting the building's energy efficiency and safety. Water exposure also exacerbates cut edge corrosion on metal cladding, speeding up deterioration. Restoration, including resealing and reapplying protective coatings, is vital to stop further water damage and ensure the cladding remains durable and secure.
5. Cracks or Warping in the Cladding
Cracks or warping in cladding panels indicate the material has been compromised, possibly due to temperature changes, impact, or water infiltration. Cracks allow moisture and air to enter, which can lead to internal structural problems and encourage cut edge corrosion in metal cladding. In commercial settings, these issues can pose risks to both safety and operations. Cladding restoration repairs these defects, preventing further damage and ensuring the building stays protected and structurally sound.
What Are The Benefits Of Commercial Cladding Refurbishment?
Commercial cladding refurbishment enhances a building’s appearance, prolongs its lifespan, improves weatherproofing, and ensures safety. Over time, cladding deteriorates due to environmental exposure, and refurbishment is a cost-effective solution to maintain and upgrade the exterior.
- Enhances Visual Appeal
- Increases Cladding Lifespan
- Improves Weather Resistance
- Ensures Building Safety
1. Enhances Visual Appeal
Refurbishing cladding revitalises a building’s appearance, giving it a clean and professional look. Over time, UV exposure, pollution, and moisture cause cladding to fade or lose its colour, making the property look dated. Refurbishment updates the building’s exterior, boosting its visual appeal and projecting a positive image for businesses operating within.
2. Increases Cladding Lifespan
Regular refurbishment can significantly prolong the life of cladding, avoiding the need for costly replacements. Addressing issues like corrosion, cracks, or minor damage early on prevents more serious structural problems from developing. According to the Steel Construction Institute, timely refurbishment can extend cladding longevity by up to 20 years, offering property owners considerable savings in the long run.
3. Improves Weather Resistance
Over time, the protective layers on cladding can wear down, allowing moisture to penetrate and cause damage such as leaks or interior issues. Refurbishment includes applying new protective coatings that restore the cladding’s ability to resist environmental factors like rain, wind, and UV rays. This also supports energy efficiency by preventing water ingress that could affect insulation and other internal materials.
4. Ensures Building Safety
Worn or damaged cladding can pose safety hazards, particularly during severe weather. Refurbishing cladding ensures the building is structurally sound and complies with safety regulations, reducing the risk of panels loosening or falling. Maintaining the structural integrity of the building protects both occupants and assets, offering peace of mind to property owners.
Can All Cladding Materials Be Refurbished?
Not all cladding materials can be refurbished effectively, as it depends on the type of material and the extent of the damage. Materials like metal, concrete, and composite cladding are generally suitable for refurbishment, as they can be cleaned, repaired, and recoated to extend their lifespan. However, materials such as wood or certain plastics may deteriorate beyond repair due to rot, warping, or extensive UV damage, making replacement a more viable option. The condition of the cladding and the type of material will determine if refurbishment is the best approach.
The materials which in most cases can be refurbished with a cladding coating are:
- Metal
- Concrete
- Composite Cladding
What Is Involved In Cladding Refurbishment?
Cladding refurbishment involves restoring and protecting cladding by inspecting, cleaning, repairing, and recoating damaged areas. This process ensures the cladding’s appearance and performance are maintained, preventing further environmental damage like corrosion or moisture ingress. Depending on the condition of the cladding, repairs may include addressing issues such as cracks or cut edge corrosion. A final protective coating is applied to extend the cladding’s lifespan and improve durability.
- Inspection of Cladding
- Cleaning the Surface
- Repairing Damaged Areas
- Applying Protective Coating
- Final Quality Check
1. Inspection of Cladding
The first step in cladding refurbishment involves a thorough inspection of the external cladding to evaluate its condition. This process identifies any issues, such as cracks, corrosion, or warping, as well as areas where cladding repairs are needed. A detailed inspection ensures all potential issues are addressed, allowing for targeted repairs before more severe damage develops. Early detection prevents larger problems and ensures the building’s cladding can be effectively restored.
2. Cleaning the Surface
Following the inspection, the external cladding requires thorough cleaning. This involves removing dirt, grime, pollutants, and any old coatings that could hinder the adhesion of new protective layers. Cleaning prepares the surface for cladding repairs and recoating, both of which are essential for successful restoration. Proper cleaning also exposes any concealed issues, ensuring the entire refurbishment process is comprehensive.
3. Repairing Damaged Areas
Once the surface is cleaned, the next step is to carry out cladding repairs. This may involve fixing cracks, treating cut edge corrosion, or replacing warped or damaged panels. Ensuring all necessary repairs are completed before applying protective coatings is crucial for maintaining the strength and function of the external cladding. Completing cladding repairs at this stage helps prevent further deterioration and guarantees the cladding remains protective and secure.
4. Applying Protective Coating
After repairs are completed, a new protective coating is applied to the external cladding. This step is vital to safeguard the cladding from future damage caused by UV exposure, moisture, and pollution. The coating acts as a shield, increasing the durability and lifespan of the cladding. Application by spray painting, especially for large surfaces, ensures efficient coverage while minimising disruption to building operations. Industry research shows that proper coatings can extend cladding lifespan by up to 20 years.
5. Final Quality Check
The final stage involves a complete quality check to ensure all cladding repairs and coatings have been correctly applied. This step guarantees that the external cladding is fully protected and the repairs have been carried out to a high standard. A thorough inspection confirms the building is safe, visually improved, and fully restored. This final check also ensures the refurbishment provides long-term protection with minimal disruption to building use.
How Much Does Cladding Refurbishment Cost?
Cladding refurbishment typically costs between £45 and £130 per square metre (sqm). The variation in cost depends on the specific refurbishment activities needed, including inspections, cleaning, cladding repairs, and recoating. Refurbishment is crucial for extending the lifespan and improving the performance of the cladding, helping to prevent more costly problems down the line.
| Service | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Cladding Refurbishment | £45 to £130 per sqm |
*These estimates are general, and actual costs can vary based on specific project requirements, location, and market conditions.
