Quick Guide: ACM and Ventilated Façades

The façade is 30% of a building's perceived value — and one of the worst-specified line items. This guide fixes that in 5 minutes.

The 4 systems, in short

ACM · composite panel →

Two aluminum skins with a thermoplastic core. Versatile and cost-efficient; exposed-fix and flush-joint systems, CNC-perforated option. The commercial and corporate workhorse.

HPL · high-pressure laminate →

Fundermax and Parklex Prodema (natural wood veneer). Maintenance-free, high impact resistance (80 MPa): education, healthcare and premium residential.

Ceramic terracotta →

NBK: the noble material of ventilated façades. Permanent color and thermal mass for institutional and signature projects.

Architectural metal mesh →

GKD: woven or expanded, parametric too. Solar control + transparency + security for parking structures, double skins and iconic façades.

Specify correctly, in 4 steps

Define exposure and orientation

A west façade in direct sun is not an internal courtyard. Orientation drives material, color (heat absorption) and whether you need added solar control.

Choose the installation system, not just the panel

80% of façade problems are installation problems: substructure, joints and trims. In ACM: exposed-fix or flush-joint. Demand the full certified system.

Request the documentation package

Data sheet, fire classification, written warranty and installed references in the region. If the supplier hesitates to provide it, you have your answer.

Physical sample before closing

On-screen color lies. Request physical samples and view them on site, under the project's real light, before signing the order.

Are you an architect or specifier? We offer CAD/BIM files, physical sample kits and per-project technical support at Specifiers →

Frequently asked questions

What is a ventilated façade and what's the real benefit?

Cladding separated from the wall by an air cavity that ventilates by convection. It cuts thermal load by up to 30%, shields the wall from rain and improves acoustics: it pays for itself in warm climates.

ACM or HPL: which one?

ACM wins on cost, curves and installation speed (commercial/corporate). HPL wins on impact resistance and natural wood looks (education, healthcare, residential). Many projects use both, by zone.

What fire certification should a façade panel have?

Always request the specific panel's fire reaction class (e.g. Class A2 or B under EN/ASTM) and the full certified installation system, not just the panel. Our specifier team delivers the documentation package per project.

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