Rainscreen cladding may need to be removed where the existing system is being replaced or where access to the underlying construction is required as part of investigation or remediation works.
Common reasons include:
The removal approach depends on the existing construction, extent of defects, access requirements and the works planned following removal.
Existing façade review – Reviewing available surveys, drawings, assessments and project information to establish the existing rainscreen system and removal requirements.
Façade investigation and opening-up – Undertaking targeted opening-up where required to establish the construction behind the rainscreen and identify concealed components.
Site preparation and protection – Preparing the work area and protecting surrounding finishes, occupied areas and vulnerable building elements.
Scaffolding and MEWP access – Providing or coordinating suitable access arrangements for controlled removal across the affected elevations.
Temporary weather protection – Protecting exposed areas of the building from weather while the rainscreen system is being removed.
Controlled panel removal – Carefully dismantling and removing rainscreen panels in accordance with the planned sequence of works.
Rail, bracket and fixing removal – Removing associated support rails, brackets, fixings and other components where included within the removal scope.
Insulation and membrane removal – Removing defective or redundant insulation, membranes and associated components where required by the project scope.
Exposure of underlying construction – Exposing the backing wall, insulation, membranes, cavity and other concealed elements for assessment or preparation.
Protection of retained construction – Protecting elements of the existing wall system that are to remain as part of the subsequent works.
Segregation and disposal – Removing waste materials from site and arranging appropriate segregation and disposal in accordance with the project requirements.
Preparation for replacement works – Leaving the exposed façade in a suitable condition for repairs, preparation or installation of the replacement rainscreen system.a
Removing the rainscreen can expose construction that cannot be fully assessed from the external face.
Where required, our dedicated survey team, Trident Facades Surveys, can undertake targeted investigation and opening-up during the removal works to establish:
This information can help inform the replacement design and specification where the existing construction differs from available drawings or previous assessments.
Rainscreen removal can be delivered as a standalone service or as part of a complete replacement or wider façade remediation project.
Following removal, the exposed construction can be inspected and prepared for subsequent works. Depending on the findings, this may include substrate repairs, replacement of defective insulation or membranes, repairs to support systems, and installation or reinstatement of cavity barriers and fire stopping.
Investigation → Strategy → Removal → Assessment → Preparation → Replacement
We understand that rainscreen cladding removal involves different operational and practical requirements depending on the property type.
Experienced in working on occupied multi-storey residential blocks where existing rainscreen cladding needs to be removed. We plan access, temporary protection and removal works carefully to minimise disruption to residents while providing the information required for subsequent remediation or replacement works.
Supporting institutional landlords, property managers and facilities teams with planned rainscreen cladding removal. Works can be phased around tenant operations, public access, planned maintenance programmes and wider refurbishment or remediation projects.
Rainscreen cladding removal is planned and delivered in accordance with the agreed scope, applicable requirements and project-specific method statements, with CDM requirements addressed where applicable. We provide clear project documentation and leave exposed areas suitably prepared and protected for subsequent works.