Ventilated facade

At CELO Façades Technology , we design and manufacture ventilated facade systems tailored to each project. To select the best solution, we analyze the following key factors:

1. Type of cladding material

The type of material and its thickness determine the most suitable fixing system :

• Light cladding (ceramic, fiber cement, composite, etc.): we recommend systems such as SOV.
• Slate and other fragile materials: we use systems such as CER, which avoid machining on the edges.

2. Distance from the cladding to the support

One of the fundamental aspects of ventilated facades is the distance (X axis) between the enclosure and the exterior face of the cladding:

• Our fastening systems for ventilated facades allow standard regulations between 6cm and 32cm.
• For distances outside this range, we design specific solutions within our range of systems for ventilated facades.

3. Dimensions, position and placement of the cladding

The design and structure of the ventilated facade depend on:

• Plate size
• Orientation (vertical or horizontal)
• Provision (running joint, locked joint, loose joints, etc.)

For example:

• Un 100x50 cm horizontal section usually requires a system with point staple on vertical profile.
• If Same breakdown is placed vertically, the most suitable system would be with horizontal profile or continuous clamp on vertical profile.

In this way, various combinations between position and placement are created, here we detail the most frequent:

-Horizontal Position + Continuous Joint Placement

-Horizontal Position + Placement to Break Joints

In the Vertical Board:

At the Horizontal Joint:

-Vertical Position + Continuous Joint Placement

-Vertical Position + Placement to Break Joints
In the Vertical Board:

At the Horizontal Joint:

There can also be combinations between horizontal and vertical positions, but they are not usually very common, such as the following:

– 2 courses in Vertical Position + 1 course in Horizontal Position

+Placement of Rompe Joints in the Vertical Joint

Staple Type

Whether our clamp is punctual on a vertical profile or if it is a horizontal profile (continuous clamp) on a vertical profile, we can differentiate between systems with visible clamp or hidden clamp. The use of one or the other will be determined by the type of material (such as in the case of slates that cannot be mechanized) or by a matter of an economic or aesthetic nature.

Support Type

In order to make a budget that is as reliable as possible, we also need to know what type of support or enclosure we are going to anchor our system in, differentiating them into the following groups:

– Concrete (Structure and Enclosure)
– Ceramic (Concrete Structure and Ceramic Enclosure)
– Metallic (Metallic Structure and Ceramic Enclosure)
– Light (Concrete or metal structure and light enclosure, Fiber Cement Panels,…)
- ETC….

Depending on the support and the resulting load of the whole, we will know what type of anchorage we will have to use and also if the chosen System has to be self-supporting with a recessed connection or Articulated the structure and the enclosure, we will have to choose which anchor point we will have what to use, etc... as we will see later.

Board Type

We must also take into account the type and thickness of the joints required by the project, both horizontally and vertically.
As standard our systems maintain a minimum joint of 6/7 mm. horizontally and allow adjustment of the vertical joint ranging from 1mm (recommended min.) to what the project requires.
In any case, our systems allow the joints to be adjusted by means of extra mechanizations in the cladding.

Once the type of System has been defined, depending on the design of the cladding, we must choose the model of the vertical profile and the corbels to use. This choice also depends on the characteristics of the project.

We must distinguish the profiles and corbels of our system according to the following parameters:

– Depending on the COATING

Vertical profile with point clamp

Vertical profile with horizontal profile

-Depending on the type of attachment to the support
Articulated (A)

Articulated wind (AV)

Embedded (E)

Recessed wind (EV)

The different modalities respond to the characteristics of the enclosure.

For example, if the enclosure is load-bearing, we will use the Articulated modality, distributing the loads between each of the corbels. However, when the enclosure is not load-bearing, we will use the Embedded mode to transmit the load directly to the building structure.

The Articulated wind and Embedded wind modalities will help us in both cases to reduce the section of the Vertical Profile against the effect of pressure/suction of the wind on the façade enclosure.

Depending on the modality chosen, we will use articulated, embedded or wind brackets.

-Depending on support

Concrete (Hor) / Ceramic (Cer)

Metallic (Met) / Wood

Depending on the support to which we are going to attach the System, we can differentiate between standard or metal brackets, the latter for Steel structures.

Ventilated facades offer both technical and aesthetic advantages over mortar facades. Below, we detail their main benefits:

Technical benefits of ventilated facades

One of the greatest benefits of ventilated facades is their layered composition, which allows for the optimization of each layer to improve the system's efficiency and durability. Its basic structure consists of:

1. Enclosure
2. Thermal isolation
3. Air chamber
4. Coating

Optionally, you can add:
5. Acoustic isolation
6. Water repellent insulation

1. Thermal benefit

The thermal efficiency of the ventilated facade is due to the combination of thermal insulation (2nd layer) and the air chamber (3rd layer) :

• During the summer, the heat from the sun warms the exterior cladding, causing chimney effect: Warm air rises and is replaced by cooler air from below, reducing heat transfer into the building.
• In winter, the thermal isolation Minimises heat loss, preventing the cold from outside from cooling the enclosure and optimising the use of heating.

Thanks to this thermal regulation, a ventilated facade can generate energy savings of between 30% and 40% , depending on the glazed surface of the building.

2. Acoustic benefit

Ventilated facades can incorporate acoustic insulation to reduce outside noise in two ways:

• Comprehensive acoustic protection: An acoustic blanket is placed between the enclosure and the thermal insulation to absorb vibrations and reduce noise transmission.
• Partial acoustic protection: Specific insulators are applied to the base of the system's fastening elements to minimise the transmission of vibrations to the interior of the building.

3. Water repellent benefit

Waterproofing is usually integrated into thermal and acoustic insulation, but it can be applied independently when thermal insulation is projected from the inside.

• In these cases, it is recommended to apply a breathable water-repellent paint on the exterior face of the enclosure to prevent the accumulation of moisture and the appearance of condensation.

Aesthetic benefits of ventilated facades

Ventilated facades stand out for their resistance to problems such as dampness and efflorescence , which are common in mortar facades.

• As the outer cladding is only in contact with the enclosure through attachment points (anchors), a air chamber which prevents rainwater from accumulating on the façade.
• El chimney effect helps to quickly remove moisture from the coating, reducing the appearance of efflorescences and stains on the facade.

The cost of a ventilated facade system varies depending on multiple factors, resulting in a specific price for each project. The main aspects that influence the cost include:

🔹 Type of fixing system :

• Direct anchors (ventilated or cushioned).
• System with profiles (vertical and/or horizontal).

🔹 Lining material :

• Stone, ceramic, fiber cement, HPL's, etc.

🔹 Cladding arrangement :

• Horizontal, vertical or combination of both.

🔹 Cladding thickness :

• From 5 mm to 5 cm (standard).

🔹 Separation distance (exit) :

• Direct anchors: minimum of 4,5 cm.
• Systems with profiles: in between 10cm and 15cm.

🔹 Type of facade :

• Blind facade (without windows) or with multiple interruptions.

🔹 Building location and height :

• Exposure to wind, altitude and weather conditions.

Since each project has unique needs, at CELO Façades Technology we recommend requesting a personalized quote from our sales department , who will be able to assess the specific characteristics and offer the best solution in terms of cost and efficiency.

One of the main advantages of a ventilated facade is the possibility of incorporating continuous thermal insulation on the exterior , protecting structural elements such as slabs and columns. This allows for the complete elimination of thermal bridges , improving the building's energy efficiency.

Essential characteristics of insulation in ventilated facades

• Fire resistance (totally fireproof).
• High thermal performance, reducing energy loss.
• Water repellent resistance option, depending on the project's climate.

Key factors to consider when choosing insulation

• Thickness and density of the material.
• Thermal transmittance and thermal resistance.
• Lambda coefficient (λ), which measures the thermal conductivity of the material.

At CELO Façades Technology , we analyze each project individually, working with specialized manufacturers to select the optimal insulation according to the climatic conditions and technical requirements of the building.

Technically, a ventilated facade should not have thermal bridges , as there are methods and systems designed to prevent them. One of the main methods for eliminating them is the installation of continuous thermal insulation on the exterior of the building envelope and structure.

However, conflict points may arise in specific areas, such as:

• Recercados in doors and windows.
• Coronations and upper finishes.
• Encounters with structural elements.

These issues can be resolved through proper design of the fixing system and the use of specific solutions, guaranteeing energy efficiency and correct thermal insulation of the façade. At CELO Façades Technology , we analyze each project to minimize any potential thermal bridging and ensure the best thermal performance of the system.

Ventilated facade systems are not specifically designed to be accessible, except in cases where a specific technical study is carried out that allows it.

However, these systems do offer the possibility of mechanically installing the final cladding pieces once the scaffolding is dismantled. This is especially useful in situations where certain structural elements, such as scaffolding bracing , prevent their installation during the initial assembly phase.

For projects requiring accessibility or specific check-ins, it is possible to design solutions adapted to the needs of the building.

If a piece of the cladding of a ventilated facade breaks, the repair procedure consists of completely removing the damaged panel and replacing it following the same original installation method.

The thickness of the cladding on a ventilated facade varies depending on the type of cladding used. Each material has a specific fixing system , designed to adapt to its mechanical and structural characteristics.

Typical thicknesses depending on the type of coating

• Stone (granite, marble, limestone, etc.): Between 20 mm and 40 mm.
• Ceramics: Between 8 mm and 15 mm.
• Fibre cement: Between 8 mm and 12 mm.
• HPL (high pressure laminate): Between 6 mm and 10 mm.

Each project requires a specific analysis , considering factors such as building height, wind loads, and climatic conditions , to guarantee the system's safety and durability. At CELO Façades Technology , we study each case to recommend the optimal thickness based on the selected material and the most suitable fixing system.

The maintenance of a ventilated facade is minimal , but it is essential to carry out adequate supervision during its installation and a general cleaning before dismantling the scaffolding.

The Technical Building Code (CTE), in its Basic Document HS Health, establishes the following maintenance recommendations:

• Every 3 years :

  • Inspection of the state of conservation of the coating (Possible cracks, detachments, humidity or stains).
  • Review of singular points (corners, crowns, overhangs, canopies, etc.).

• Every 5 years :

  • Evaluation of possible cracks, fissures, collapses or deformations in the main sheet of the enclosure.

• Every 10 years :

  • Checking the cleanliness of the chamber's sores or ventilation openings.

By following these maintenance guidelines, the durability, safety and efficiency of the ventilated facade system are guaranteed , maintaining its structural and aesthetic properties over time.