Rainscreen Cladding Contractors UK
Ventilated rainscreen facades for commercial and architectural projects — terracotta, HPL, fibre cement and metal cassette systems specified, supplied and installed by our own site teams, to CWCT-referenced standards.
What is Rainscreen Cladding?
Rainscreen cladding is a wall system where the outer facade panel is fixed clear of the structural wall, leaving a ventilated cavity behind it. Rain is shed by the outer panel, while any moisture that does get through drains and evaporates through the cavity rather than sitting against the building’s insulation or structure.
Because the outer panel doesn’t need to be fully watertight on its own, rainscreen systems allow open joints and a wide range of finishes — terracotta, high-pressure laminate (HPL), fibre cement, natural stone and metal cassette panels are all commonly used. This makes rainscreen the preferred choice where appearance and long-term performance both matter.
Rainscreen Cladding Systems We Install
At Faclade, we supply and install a range of rainscreen systems to suit different budgets, finishes and performance requirements. Our team manages the process — from system specification and material procurement through to professional installation and final sign-off.
Terracotta & Ceramic Rainscreen
Extruded terracotta or ceramic panels on a ventilated sub-frame, giving a durable, low-maintenance finish with a distinctive natural material appearance. A common choice for commercial and public buildings.
HPL & Fibre Cement Rainscreen
High-pressure laminate and fibre cement panels offer a wide range of colours and finishes at a lower cost than natural materials, while still delivering the ventilated cavity performance of a full rainscreen system.
Metal Cassette Rainscreen
Aluminium or steel cassette panels with concealed, return-edged fixing for a clean, joint-free architectural finish. Often specified where a precise, modern appearance is the priority.
Rainscreen Cladding and UK Building Regulations
Rainscreen systems on relevant buildings are subject to the same fire safety framework introduced across the UK following the Grenfell Tower fire, alongside specific technical guidance covering the ventilated cavity itself. The correct system depends on the building’s height, use and overall fire strategy.
Key regulatory points that commonly apply to rainscreen cladding projects:
- Non-combustible rainscreen panels rated Class A1 or A2-s1,d0 are typically required on relevant buildings above certain height thresholds — the exact requirement depends on the building’s use and classification, so each project is assessed individually
- Full rainscreen systems on relevant buildings are commonly tested or assessed against BS 8414 and classified under BR 135
- Cavity barriers and fire stopping within the ventilated void are specified to prevent fire spreading behind the outer panel
- The Building Safety Act 2022 introduced new duties for building owners, developers and contractors on higher-risk buildings
At Faclade, every rainscreen installation is specified and installed with reference to current UK building regulations, including CWCT technical guidance on ventilated facades. We work alongside the project’s fire and design professionals, and provide the relevant system documentation for the specification used.
Rainscreen 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 panel material, sub-frame, cavity depth and fixing method.
2. Material Procurement
We source rainscreen panels and sub-frame components from approved UK and European manufacturers, ensuring full traceability and certification on every batch.
3. Sub-frame & Cavity Setup
A support sub-frame is fixed to the structural wall over the insulation, creating the ventilated cavity. Cavity barriers and fire stopping are installed at the required intervals as part of this stage.
4. Panel Installation
Panels are fixed with open or concealed joints as specified, with careful attention to setting out, alignment and drainage detailing at openings and abutments.
5. Quality Inspection & Sign-off
Every Faclade rainscreen installation undergoes a comprehensive quality inspection before handover. We provide full as-built documentation and system warranties covering both materials and workmanship.
Rainscreen Cladding Cost Guide — UK 2026
Rainscreen cladding costs vary depending on panel material, sub-frame type, cavity depth and access requirements. The figures below are indicative supply-and-install guide prices for typical UK commercial projects in 2026 — see the notes under the table for what’s included.
Why Choose Faclade for Rainscreen 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 panel options available where a project’s height or fire strategy requires them
- Materials sourced from approved manufacturers 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
Rainscreen cladding types we install
Terracotta Rainscreen
Extruded terracotta panels for a durable, natural-material finish on commercial and public buildings.
HPL Rainscreen Panels
High-pressure laminate panels offering a wide colour range at a more accessible price point than natural materials.
Fibre Cement Rainscreen
Durable, low-maintenance fibre cement panels with strong fire performance credentials for commercial facades.
Metal Cassette Rainscreen
Aluminium or steel cassette panels with concealed fixing for a clean, precise architectural appearance.
Natural Stone Rainscreen
Thin natural stone panels on a ventilated sub-frame, for a premium finish with exceptional longevity.
Open-Joint Rainscreen Systems
Panels installed with visible open joints, maximising cavity ventilation and giving a distinctive shadow-gap appearance.
Rainscreen cladding cost guide UK 2026
| System Type | Fire Rating | Supply Cost (per m²) | Installed Cost (per m²) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HPL Rainscreen | B-s1,d0 / A2 | £35 – £60 | £85 – £130 | Budget-conscious commercial |
| Fibre Cement Rainscreen | A2-s1,d0 | £40 – £65 | £90 – £140 | Commercial, education |
| Metal Cassette Rainscreen | A1 | £45 – £75 | £95 – £150 | Modern architectural |
| Terracotta Rainscreen | A1 | £55 – £90 | £110 – £165 | Premium public / commercial |
| Natural Stone Rainscreen | A1 | £70 – £110 | £130 – £180 | Flagship / premium projects |
* Prices are indicative supply-and-install guide prices for UK commercial 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, panel specification and project complexity. Contact Faclade for a detailed project quotation.
Specified to current UK regulations
Every rainscreen cladding project delivered by Faclade is specified and installed with reference to current UK building regulations and CWCT technical guidance. We provide the relevant system documentation for the specification used on every installation.
Rainscreen cladding questions answered
Ready to discuss your rainscreen 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.