Rainscreen cladding replacement may be required where an existing system has defects affecting its fire performance, durability, weather resistance or overall condition.
Common issues include:
The appropriate replacement approach depends on the existing construction, condition, assessment findings and required performance.
Existing façade review – Reviewing available surveys, assessments, drawings and previous reports to establish the existing rainscreen system and known defects.
Façade investigation and opening-up – Investigating panels, support systems, insulation, membranes, cavity barriers and interfaces where further information is required.
Remediation strategy – Establishing the extent of replacement and the appropriate approach for the affected elevations.
Design and specification – Developing the replacement rainscreen system, including panel material, support arrangements, fixings, insulation, membranes, fire stopping and interface details.
Rainscreen removal – Carefully dismantling and removing existing panels and associated components in accordance with the planned sequence of works.
Substrate and backing preparation – Inspecting and preparing the exposed wall construction, including repairs or replacement of defective components where required.
Insulation and membrane works – Replacing or upgrading insulation and membranes where required by the replacement design.
Support systems and fixings – Installing new rails, brackets, fixings and associated support components in accordance with the approved system.
Cavity barriers and fire stopping – Installing or reinstating required fire protection within the external wall and around relevant interfaces.
Replacement rainscreen cladding – Supplying and installing the specified rainscreen panels and associated system components.
Flashings, trims and interfaces – Completing junctions around windows, doors, balconies, roofs and other façade interfaces to provide appropriate weathering and drainage.
Installation and completion – Completing the system, making good, carrying out final inspections and addressing identified snags.
The replacement system needs to perform as a complete external wall rather than simply replacing the existing panels.
Design considerations can include:
The replacement cladding material and system may differ from the existing construction where appropriate to the building and remediation requirements.
Rainscreen replacement can be delivered as a standalone service or as part of a wider façade remediation project.
Where a FRAEW, fire risk assessment, façade investigation or other assessment has identified defects or remediation requirements, the replacement works can be developed in response to the findings and recommendations.
Our dedicated survey team, Trident Facades Surveys, can undertake condition surveys and targeted opening-up where required.
Investigation → Strategy → Design → Removal → Replacement → Completion
We understand that rainscreen cladding replacement involves different operational and practical requirements depending on the property type.
Experienced in working on occupied multi-storey residential blocks where existing rainscreen cladding requires replacement. We provide the technical information and cost breakdowns required by block managers and surveyors for Section 20 consultations, while carefully planning works to minimise disruption to residents.
Supporting institutional landlords, property managers and facilities teams with planned rainscreen cladding replacement. Projects can be phased around tenant operations, public access, planned maintenance programmes and capital expenditure requirements.
Rainscreen cladding replacement is planned and delivered in accordance with the approved specification, applicable requirements and manufacturer installation guidance, with CDM requirements addressed where applicable. We provide clear project documentation and complete installations to the required standard.