Wall Cladding Contractors UK

From cost-effective profiled sheet to fully insulated panel systems, we cover the full spectrum of external wall cladding for industrial and commercial buildings — specified, supplied and installed by one team, start to finish.

200+
RAL finishes available
£35–£140
Per m² installed
A1/A2
Fire classification
25+ yrs
System lifespan

What is Wall Cladding?

Wall cladding is the external skin fitted over a building’s structural wall to protect it from weather, improve thermal performance and update its appearance. On industrial and commercial buildings it also plays a direct role in fire compliance, which is why material selection is not something to get wrong.

Wall cladding is one of the most widely specified external systems in the UK for warehouses, distribution centres, retail units and commercial developments. Its combination of durability, thermal performance and design flexibility makes it a common choice for architects, developers and main contractors across a wide range of project types.

Wall Cladding Systems We Install

At Faclade, we supply and install a range of wall cladding systems to suit different project types, budgets and performance requirements. Our team manages the process — from system specification and material procurement through to professional installation and final sign-off.

Profiled Metal Wall Cladding

Steel or aluminium sheet cladding in a corrugated or trapezoidal profile. A cost-effective option for industrial units and warehouses, with Class A1 non-combustible ratings as standard. Suitable for single-storey and low-rise buildings.

Insulated Composite Wall Panels

Twin-skin steel panels with an insulating core, fitted in a single operation. Delivers weatherproofing and thermal performance together, reducing install time versus built-up systems and supporting current Part L energy efficiency requirements.

Rainscreen Wall Cladding Systems

A ventilated outer layer fixed clear of the structural wall, allowing moisture to drain and the building to breathe. Often specified where long-term durability and appearance are the priority, such as retail frontages or multi-storey commercial developments.

Wall cladding and rainscreen installation on commercial building, Faclade project

Rainscreen wall cladding installation on a commercial building in Birmingham — Faclade project team on site.

Wall Cladding and UK Building Regulations

External wall cladding on industrial and commercial buildings is subject to the same fire safety scrutiny introduced across the UK following the Grenfell Tower fire. The material and system selected has to match the building’s height, use class and exposure conditions.

Key regulatory points that commonly apply to wall cladding projects:

  • Non-combustible cladding rated Class A1 or A2-s1,d0 is typically required on relevant buildings above certain height thresholds in England — the exact requirement depends on the building’s height, use and classification, so each project is assessed individually
  • External wall systems on relevant buildings may need to be tested or assessed against BS 8414 and classified under BR 135
  • The Building Safety Act 2022 introduced new duties for building owners, developers and contractors on higher-risk buildings
  • Below these thresholds, material choice is guided by a fire risk assessment specific to the building and its use

At Faclade, every wall cladding installation is specified and installed with reference to current UK building regulations. We work alongside the project’s fire and design professionals, and provide the relevant system documentation and certification for the specification used.

Wall Cladding Installation Process

Our installation process follows a structured programme designed to deliver consistent quality and comply with CWCT (Centre for Window and Cladding Technology) standards on every project.

1. Site Survey & Specification

Our technical team visits the site to assess the structural substrate, building height, exposure conditions and access requirements. We produce a detailed specification document outlining the recommended system, fixing method, joint design and performance targets.

2. Material Procurement

We source wall cladding materials from approved UK and European manufacturers, ensuring full traceability and certification. Systems supplied by Faclade carry third-party certification from BBA (British Board of Agrément) or equivalent bodies.

3. Sub-frame or Batten Installation

Wall cladding is fixed to a sub-frame or batten system attached to the building structure. This is designed to accommodate thermal movement, provide a level surface for fixing and create any ventilated cavity required by UK building regulations.

4. Panel or Sheet Installation

Cladding is installed to the manufacturer’s specification using concealed or visible fixing systems depending on the design intent. All joints are sealed or detailed to prevent water ingress while allowing for thermal movement.

5. Quality Inspection & Sign-off

Every Faclade installation undergoes a comprehensive quality inspection before handover. We provide full as-built documentation and system warranties, plus a fire safety certificate where the specification requires it.

Wall Cladding Cost Guide — UK 2026

Wall cladding costs vary depending on system specification, building height, access requirements and project complexity. The figures below are indicative supply-and-install guide prices for typical UK commercial and industrial projects in 2026 — see the notes under the table for what’s included.

Why Choose Faclade for Wall Cladding?

  • Full project management from specification to sign-off — one point of contact
  • Specified and installed with reference to the Building Safety Act 2022 and Approved Document B
  • Non-combustible systems available where a project’s height or fire strategy requires them
  • BBA-certified systems with full traceability documentation
  • Experienced installation teams with CSCS cards and relevant trade qualifications
  • Comprehensive warranties covering both materials and workmanship
  • Coverage across the UK and internationally
Wall Systems

Wall cladding types we install

Profiled Steel Sheet

Corrugated or trapezoidal steel sheet cladding. A cost-effective wall cladding option, with Class A1 non-combustible ratings and fast installation.

A1 Rated

Insulated Composite Panels

Twin-skin panels with an insulated core, installed in a single operation. Combines weatherproofing and thermal performance for warehouses and industrial units.

A2 or B · Insulated

Aluminium Composite Panels

Flat, rigid composite panels for a modern commercial finish. Available in A2-rated non-combustible cores for mid and high-rise applications, confirmed on a project-by-project basis.

A2 Rated

Rainscreen Systems

Ventilated outer layer fixed clear of the structural wall for superior moisture control and longevity. A common system for retail and premium commercial facades.

A2 Rated

Timber-Effect Composite Cladding

Low-maintenance composite boards with a realistic timber finish. Popular for office entrances, receptions and street-facing elevations.

Decorative · Low maintenance

Perforated & Acoustic Wall Panels

Perforated metal or composite panels for solar shading, screening and acoustic dampening in facilities near residential areas or busy roads.

Acoustic · Screening
Pricing Guide

Wall cladding cost guide UK 2026

System Type Fire Rating Supply Cost (per m²) Installed Cost (per m²) Best For
Profiled Steel Sheet Class A1 £15 – £25 £35 – £55 Single-storey industrial
Insulated Composite Panel A2-s1,d0 / B £30 – £50 £70 – £120 Warehouses, cold stores
Aluminium Composite (ACM) A2-s1,d0 £25 – £45 £60 – £95 Commercial facades*
Rainscreen System A2-s1,d0 £40 – £70 £85 – £140 Retail, premium commercial
Timber-Effect Composite B-s1,d0 £30 – £50 £65 – £100 Entrances, feature walls

* Suitability depends on the specific building’s height, use and fire strategy, confirmed on a project-by-project basis — see the regulations notes above. Prices are indicative supply-and-install guide prices for UK commercial and industrial projects in 2026, covering material and standard labour. They exclude VAT, scaffolding/access equipment, structural repairs and non-standard substructure work unless otherwise agreed. Final costs depend on building height, access requirements, system specification and project complexity. Contact Faclade for a detailed project quotation.

Specified to current UK regulations

Every wall cladding project delivered by Faclade is specified and installed with reference to current UK building regulations and industry standards. We provide the relevant system documentation for the specification used on every installation.

Approved Doc B
Fire safety requirements for external wall cladding systems
BS EN 14509
Standard for factory-made insulated sandwich panels
BS 8414 / BR 135
Full-scale fire test method and classification criteria
BSA 2022
Building Safety Act 2022 duties for higher-risk buildings
BBA-Certified
Third-party certified panel systems and fixings
FAQ

Wall cladding questions answered

What is wall cladding used for? +
Wall cladding protects a building’s structure from weather, improves insulation and updates its external appearance. On industrial and commercial buildings it’s also a key part of fire compliance.
How much does wall cladding cost in the UK? +
Fully installed wall cladding typically costs between £35 and £140 per m², depending on the system, building height and site access. Profiled steel sheet sits at the lower end; rainscreen systems at the upper end.
Is wall cladding fire safe? +
When the correct system is specified for the building, yes. Non-combustible options rated Class A1 or A2-s1,d0 are available and are typically required on relevant buildings above certain height thresholds under current Building Regulations — the exact requirement depends on the specific building, so this is always confirmed on a project-by-project basis.
How long does wall cladding last? +
Most systems have a typical service life of 25–40 years with routine maintenance. Metal systems generally last longest when specified with the correct coating for the site’s exposure conditions.
Do I need planning permission for wall cladding? +
Re-cladding an existing building often falls under permitted development, but this depends on the building type, location and any conservation restrictions. We check this as part of the initial survey.
How long does wall cladding installation take? +
Installation timescales depend on the size and complexity of the project. A typical industrial unit of 500–1,000 m² can often be installed in 1–3 weeks, on top of a 4–8 week material lead time. Faclade will provide a detailed programme with your quotation.

Ready to discuss your wall cladding project?

Our team will review your enquiry within one working day. A detailed specification and cost plan follows once we have your project drawings and information.

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