The Building Safety Act (BSA) has ushered in a huge transformation in the construction sector, with an increased focus on safety and a drive to improve standards and practices. The recent Independent Review of Construction Product Testing further emphasises the importance of using safe and reliable materials in the construction industry.
With our wealth of experience and strong supplier relationships, at Eden Facades we’re well-equipped to navigate these changes and help clients complete their projects on time and within budget.
Emerging trends
One of the most prominent trends in the sector is a shift towards using fibre cement cladding materials. For instance, Valcan’s Ceramapanel is gaining popularity, offering a durable and fire-resistant alternative to traditional cladding materials.
Fibre cement cladding improves performance and aesthetics, making it a suitable option for many projects, in addition to increasingly being chosen due to its ability to meet stringent fire safety requirements, while maintaining a visually appealing finish.
We monitor these changes within the market and are able to adapt our services to meet client and project requirements. Another material we are seeing an increase in use of is aluminium cladding and cassettes, as seen in projects like The Assembly Buildings. Aluminium has become a popular choice for cladding due to its lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties.
It is an ideal replacement for high-pressure laminates and ACMs, which are under scrutiny following the Grenfell Tower tragedy. Aluminium offers a similar appearance and weight to ACMs while providing improved fire safety.
The rising popularity of aluminium cladding is a testament to the industry’s commitment to finding new and innovative solutions that prioritise safety without compromising aesthetics. It also showcases the adaptability of companies like ours, which have embraced these changes and incorporated them into their range of services.
Challenges and materials shortages
Despite these positive trends, the sector is not without its challenges. The increased demand for safer materials, driven by the BSA, has led to shortages in some products, such as mineral fibre insulation.
Rockwool, one of the largest insulation manufacturers, has seen lead times for their products increase significantly, reaching up to 20 weeks. Other suppliers, such as Knauf and Kingspan, have also experienced difficulties in meeting demand, with some even closing their order books temporarily.
This high demand and subsequent shortages may be attributed to the influx of BSA-related projects, with many companies rushing to procure materials simultaneously. The situation has been further exacerbated by global supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has affected the availability of various construction materials.
Our response to challenges
Eden Facades is well positioned to address these challenges thanks to our extensive experience and strong supplier relationships. The company is capable of offering A-rated alternatives for products that are in short supply, ensuring that projects continue to run smoothly.
Our approach to overcoming materials shortages involves maintaining open lines of communication with suppliers, enabling them to stay abreast of any changes in lead times and availability.
In working closely with our suppliers and monitoring market trends, we can effectively adapt to the dynamic nature of the construction sector and provide the best possible service to its clients.
Expertise and industry knowledge
Whilst we do not specify materials, our expertise and understanding of industry trends allow us to provide clients with guidance and support, offering A-rated alternative products should a project require it.
Our commitment to staying up-to-date with developments in products and materials demonstrates their dedication to delivering high-quality, safe, and efficient cladding solutions for their clients.
Our years of experience in installing rainscreen cladding for a diverse range of projects and specifications have given us the knowledge and skills required to adapt to the ever-changing demands of the construction sector.
By staying informed about new products, materials, and best practices, Eden Facades will continue to provide top-quality services while adhering to the latest safety regulations.
Tony Hill, Managing Director at Eden Facades, said:
“It is indeed a rapidly evolving construction sector, driven by increasing safety concerns and regulatory changes, but we’re demonstrating strength and adaptability. Our expertise, combined with strong industry knowledge, is of real benefit as clients navigate challenges like materials shortages.
“We’ll continue to source the best products, stay abreast of developments in the sector and show that Eden Facades is well-positioned to succeed further in this dynamic and competitive market.”
If you’re looking for an expert cladding specialist that provides tailored solutions for projects across the country, contact Eden Facades today.
