Non-Combustible Metal Mesh Cladding - Enhancing Safety and Sustainability

In recent years, the world has witnessed devastating incidents linked to combustible cladding materials in buildings. From residential complexes to commercial skyscrapers, the use of flammable materials in construction has posed significant risks to both life and property. In the wake of such tragedies, there's a pressing need to advocate for safer alternatives, and non-combustible metal mesh cladding emerges as a popular choice in this regard.

The Safety Imperative

First and foremost, the paramount concern in any construction project should be safety. Non-combustible cladding offers a crucial advantage in mitigating fire hazards compared to traditional combustible materials. By its very nature, metal mesh cladding significantly reduces the risk of fire propagation, enhancing the overall safety of the structure and its occupants.

Durability and Longevity

Beyond safety, metal mesh cladding boasts exceptional durability and longevity. Unlike combustible alternatives that may degrade over time, metal meshes maintain their structural integrity, providing lasting protection against external elements. This longevity not only ensures a safer environment but also translates into cost savings over the lifespan of the building.

Environmental Responsibility

In an era increasingly focused on sustainability, the environmental impact of construction materials cannot be overstated. Non-combustible cladding aligns seamlessly with sustainability objectives, offering a greener alternative to traditional options. By choosing non-combustible materials, builders and developers demonstrate a commitment to reducing carbon emissions and minimising their ecological footprint.

Regulatory Compliance and Peace of Mind

With stricter building regulations coming into force worldwide, compliance has become a critical consideration for construction projects. Opting for non-combustible cladding ensures adherence to stringent safety standards, providing stakeholders with peace of mind regarding regulatory compliance. By proactively choosing non-combustible materials, builders can avoid potential legal pitfalls and reputational damage associated with non-compliance.

Architectural Versatility

Contrary to common misconceptions, non-combustible cladding does not compromise on aesthetic appeal or design flexibility. Modern advancements in manufacturing techniques have resulted in a diverse range of metal mesh patterns, which offer architects and designers ample creative freedom. Whether pursuing sleek minimalism or intricate detailing, non-combustible metal cladding solutions can be tailored to suit any architectural vision.

Natural finishes, such as Corten Steel and Stainless Steel maintain resistance to combustion, whilst promoting sustainability, and enhancing aesthetic appeal.

Completed Projects Using Non-Combustible Metal Mesh Cladding

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Expanded Metal Mesh In Weathered Steel

Introduction

As sustainability takes centre stage in architectural design, weathered steel (commonly referred to as Corten steel) expanded metal mesh stands out as a versatile and eco-friendly material. Not only does it offer a mix of durability, strength, and natural weathering properties for diverse applications, but it's also non-combustible, adding to its appeal. This material, celebrated for its rustic allure, undergoes a gradual weathering process, developing a protective oxide layer over time. This layer not only extends the material's lifespan but also enriches its aesthetic appeal, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious projects.

Environmental Benefits Of Weathered Steel

There’s a triple environmental benefit of using Corten steel expanded metal mesh, which stands out for its sustainability: It’s crafted from recycled steel, requiring minimal energy for production compared to conventional construction materials. Its durability and resistance to corrosion eliminate the need for toxic coatings or chemical treatments, and this also makes it easier to recycle at the end of its working life.

The Visual Appeal of Corten Steel

Architects and designers favour weathered steel expanded metal mesh for its ability to enhance the visual appeal of structures, offering a unique patina that adds character to buildings. Its customizable texture and pattern enable architects to achieve various aesthetic outcomes while providing functional benefits such as natural ventilation and lighting, reducing the reliance on artificial cooling and lighting systems.

Applications for Weathered Steel Expanded Mesh

The material finds applications in facades, cladding, and privacy screens, offering both visual appeal and practical advantages. Its versatility allows for innovative design solutions that blend seamlessly with the environment, fostering a sense of unity and integration. Overall, weathered steel expanded metal mesh presents an opportunity for sustainable and visually striking architectural designs that prioritize environmental responsibility.

Architectural Metal Mesh and Lighting

Here at Locker, we like to encourage all use of metal mesh. Whether it be for architects and contractors for use in a project, or as recently demonstrated at the Wire Works Exhibition right here in Warrington, for artistic expression.

We frequently issue samples to students of architecture, as well as sculpture and photography.

The following photos were taken by Finleigh Palmer, GCSE student.

“I love working with metals, especially metals with patterns or cut outs because you can pass light through them and it will create its own unique shadow. Changing the colour of the light that you use can change the whole perspective of the photograph.”

• Finleigh Palmer - GSCE Student

Contact our team for more information

If you are looking to specify mesh for a large-scale cladding project or building envelope, and you have concerns over the fire safety of your specification, contact our sales team for a more in-depth discussion.

Click Here for details of our full product range, or phone 01925 406600.

Fire Performance Ratings

Fire ratings for Cladding and Juliet Balconies in High Rises

Fire Ratings Made Simple:

The UK Building regulations on fire safety were issued in 1991 and use (from best to worse) Class 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 ratings to classify materials. However, since then, the UK Government has adopted the far more thorough and exhaustive Euroclass system:

• Class 0 is not a fire classification identified in any British standard test. Despite that fact, people still incorrectly cite Class 0 – 4 when talking about Fire Ratings.
• European fire ratings (Euroclass) are (from best to worse) A1 , A2, B, C, D, E or F.
• Smoke emissions are indicated using a (from best to worse) S1 , S2, or S3 rating.
• Smoke classifications are not given to products with an E or F Euroclass rating.
• Flaming Droplets/particles are indicated (from best to worse) using a d0, d1 or d2 rating.
• A1-rated products are not given a smoke or flaming droplet rating, as it is assumed they do not contribute to fire growth or spread.

The building (Amendment) Regulations 2018 specifies that materials used for and attached to the external wall of buildings 18m+ high must achieve Class A2-s1, d0 or A1 in accordance with BS EN 13501-1:2007+A1:2009 (later superseded by BS EN 13501-1:2018).

The UK Government is also exploring a proposal that would further include 11m+ high buildings.

Locker Architectural Products

EU Publication 96/603/EC lists materials that are class A1 rated without fire testing (provided they are not finely divided) inclusive:

• Steel
• Zinc and zinc alloys
• Stainless steel
• Aluminium
• Copper and Copper Alloys (including brass)

Locker Architectural metal meshes are generally made entirely from aluminium or stainless steel before the introduction of a secondary finish.

This means that they are automatically classed as A1 fire rated and can safely be specified for high rise buildings, be it Juliet balconies, façade cladding, rain screening, sun screening etc.

Stainless Steel

Stainless Steel is typically left with a natural finish (i.e. no secondary finish is applied) which means the finished product is A1 rated.

Aluminium

Aluminium is often provided with a secondary powder coated, or anodised finish. Powder coated finishes are typically rated A2, whereas anodised finishes typically achieve an A1 rating.

Contact our team for more information

If you are looking to specify mesh for a large-scale cladding project or building envelope, and you have concerns over the fire safety of your specification, contact our sales team for a more in-depth discussion.

Click Here for details of our full product range, or phone 01925 406600.