External Envelope & Innovation

Aluminium is intrinsically non-combustible, melting only around 660 °C, unlike polymer-cored ACM panels. When teamed with non-combustible insulation and intumescent cavity barriers, these systems are capable of achieving 120 minutes of fire containment, fully complying with modern façade safety standards.

Aluminium naturally forms a protective oxide layer that resists UV, moisture, and corrosion. Coatings such as anodized finishes or powder-coats enhance this further. No regular sealing or repainting is required, just occasional cleaning.

A ventilated cavity (usually 20–25 mm) behind the cladding facilitates the “chimney effect,” which expels moisture, equalizes pressure, and prevents condensation. The outer aluminium serves as the primary rain barrier, while an inner weather membrane provides backup protection.

By locating insulation on the exterior and using a ventilated cavity, thermal bridges are minimized and U-values improved. Studies indicate these systems can reduce heating and cooling demands by 25–40%, thanks to enhanced insulation and passive cavity ventilation.

Aluminium panels can be custom-shaped, perforated, and extruded to precise dimensions, offering robust performance even in long runs. A broad palette of finishes is available, including powder-coated, anodized, PVDF, and textured visuals like wood-grain or stone.

Aluminium is infinitely recyclable, conserving 95% of energy compared to primary production. Its durability, recyclability, and minimal maintenance contribute to a low embodied carbon footprint and excellent lifecycle performance.

• These systems can reduce heating and cooling demands by 20–60%, depending on roof type, with extensive roofs often realizing 20–45% energy savings.

• Studies show indoor temperatures drop by 3–4 °C during summer, and solar roof temperatures can fall by 30 °C compared to conventional roofs.

• By protecting roofs from UV exposure and thermal stress, green roofs can double or triple membrane lifespan.

• Extensive green roofs typically retain 34–59% of rainfall and may hold up to 75% per individual event, delaying runoff and easing pressure on drainage systems.

• Their runoff-retaining function supports SuDS by reducing flood risk and mitigating combined sewer overflows.

• Even minimal vegetation (e.g. sedum, native grasses) offers valuable habitats for pollinators, birds, and insects, enhancing urban ecological connectivity.

• With an added wet load of around 100–150 kg/m², extensive roofs are compatible with most existing rooftops without major structural reinforcement.

• They require only 1–2 annual maintenance visits covering drainage checks, light weeding, and minimal nutrition, at a modest cost.

• Enhanced extensive systems usually cost £120–180/m², reflecting better-quality plant mixes and substrates.

• Lifecycle savings through energy reduction, storm-water benefits, and extended roof life, often pay back the setup cost within 3–7 years.

• The vegetated layers offer sound insulation, effectively dampening urban noise both inside and out.

• Green rooftops also enhance visual amenity and contribute to improved psychological well-being in urban settings.