Revolutionised by modern manufacturing, terracotta cladding has become an increasingly popular choice amongst architects and contractors alike.
Originating from high-quality clay extruded from the ground, this natural solution undergoes mixing, moulding, oxidising and other processes before installation in its final form as a rainscreen system.
It then outperforms various other types of cladding on multiple counts – both functionally and aesthetically. Read on to discover a few of its practical benefits and contact RGB Facades for high-quality terracotta cladding for a range of projects.
Aesthetic appeal
Before we look at the functional benefits of terracotta cladding, it’s worth recapping on its beautiful appearance. Natural materials are endlessly versatile as a design choice. Rustic, earthy aesthetics are an enduring trend, both for interiors and exteriors – and due to its colour and texture, terracotta is one of the best ways to attain this sought-after look.
It’s the perfect material for both traditional, rustic looks and modern architecture. Terracotta looks good alongside glass and other stone surfaces, so works well for all kinds of urban design, contributing to a unique look that unites cities with nature.
Terracotta cladding is now also available in endless configurations, colours and finishes, opening up more and more possibilities for designers. Beyond the expected reds and oranges, RGB Facades offers cladding in the full spectrum of colours – from greys, blacks and whites, to the vivid Mars red, Egyptian violet and cobalt blue.
Durability
For cladding to stand the test of time, durability is key – and terracotta cladding certainly delivers, with the strength to face up to any challenge.
Most importantly, it’s completely fireproof. During its initial manufacturing as clay, it needs to withstand incredibly high temperatures. By the time it’s a rainscreen system, it’s totally non-combustible, for single storey and high-rise buildings.
Extreme weather doesn’t stand a chance either. It’s built to handle any amount of rain, wind, sleet or sun, as well as high levels of impact. Terracotta cladding protects buildings come rain or shine, even in locations that experience particularly tough conditions.
Low maintenance
Once it’s installed, it’s installed.
As a robust natural material, it has enough integrity without any additional sealants or grout – and what’s not there originally doesn’t need replacing. That means no repainting or resealing. It should last for over 100 years without any maintenance, and it won’t sacrifice any of its gloss or appearance in the meantime.
Energy efficiency
Terracotta cladding provides outstanding insulation. Clay’s porous nature is naturally insulative, and the rain screen system is designed to boost this further.
This automatically increases the energy efficiency of any building it’s installed on to. Over the building’s lifecycle, it significantly reduces its environmental impact, while lowering energy bills for the occupants.
Recyclable
Another win for terracotta’s green credentials is that it’s 100% recyclable. Should the building ever need demolishing or repurposing, the cladding can be broken down and repurposed as required.
Terracotta cladding from RGB Facades
As a market leader in cladding, RGB Facades has provided terracotta cladding for a huge variety of projects – helping architects and designers benefit from its non-combustible, durable and sustainable properties.
We have heights ranging from 15 to 60cm, and lengths up to 180cm – and we’ll be happy to guide you through the choices of colours and finishes for your project.
Learn more about our process and feel free to get in touch with our knowledgeable team to discuss your project requirements.