Energy-efficient facades: comfort for modern buildings
The ongoing search for sustainable and less impactful solutions in architecture and construction also directly affects building facades.
They are the first line of defence against external agents such as cold and heat. If designed appropriately, they provide optimum comfort in the building’s interior spaces, which translates into overall energy savings.
Let’s find out what are the solutions for energy-efficient facades, with a focus on their aesthetics as well.
What is the most energy-efficient cladding?
The term facade refers to the external part of a building and has several functions. First of all, it has an aesthetic purpose: it contributes to giving the structure a personality.
In the modern, contemporary style, it is characterised by simple lines and clean geometries. For this reason, materials such as glass, steel and aluminium are very popular. The more modern approach emphasises the clarity of the structure and the sense of openness that is intended to be conveyed.
Facades can generally be divided into four groups:
- lightweight;
- heavyweight;
- prefabricated;
- traditional.
Regardless of the type, a facade should serve its intended purpose:
- protection;
- natural light;
- ventilation;
- identity representation;
- visual integration.
Materials for energy-efficient facades
In assessing which solutions are best in terms of energy efficiency and aesthetics, modern architectural projects include aluminum composite panels (ACP).
ACP panels consist of two thin aluminum sheets bonded to a non-aluminum core, typically made of polyethylene or fire-resistant mineral compounds.
These panels enhance the building envelope by offering several energy-efficient benefits, improving overall performance.
- One key advantage is their excellent thermal insulation.
- The non-aluminum core acts as a barrier, reducing heat transfer through the cladding system.
- This helps regulate indoor temperatures, minimizing the need for excessive heating or cooling, which in turn lowers energy consumption and costs.
High-performance glass is a second valid option. Also known as energy-efficient or low-emissivity (Low-E) glass, it is designed to enhance a building’s energy efficiency and thermal performance.
- Commonly used in windows, doors, and curtain wall systems, it helps reduce heat transfer, control solar heat gain, and improve insulation.
- This glass features a thin, transparent coating that reflects heat and blocks infrared energy while allowing visible light to pass through. It also reduces ultraviolet (UV) radiation, preventing excessive heat buildup.
- One of its key benefits is minimizing heat gain in warm climates, reducing the demand on cooling systems.
- In colder regions, it helps retain indoor heat, improving energy efficiency and lowering heating costs.
The combination of metals and glazing finds space with curtain walls. They are energy-efficient cladding systems that boost both the functionality and aesthetics of modern buildings.
Made of glass, aluminum, or steel frames with infill panels, these non-structural exterior systems create a sleek appearance while optimising energy performance.
- A key advantage of curtain walls is their ability to maximize natural light.
- The extensive use of glass allows abundant daylight to enter the building, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.
This not only enhances occupant comfort but also lowers energy consumption associated with lighting.
What is an example of a sustainable facade?
The combination of energy-efficient facade elements allows architects and planners to realise sustainable and less impactful cladding.
There are several examples that describe this approach very well.
Passive solar design is an architectural strategy that optimises natural sunlight to heat and illuminate buildings efficiently.
- By carefully planning the orientation, materials, and layout, this approach reduces energy consumption while enhancing indoor comfort.
- Well-placed windows are essential for balancing natural light and heat. Large, south-facing windows allow maximum sunlight in winter, while shading solutions reduce heat gain in summer.
- These features help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling.
Structurally Insulated Panels (SIPs) are another kind of advanced building materials designed for high energy efficiency.
- They consist of a rigid insulation core sandwiched between two structural panels, typically made from oriented strand board (OSB) or plywood.
- The core is usually composed of expanded polystyrene (EPS) or polyurethane (PUR) foam, both of which provide excellent thermal insulation.
One of the key advantages of SIPs is their exceptional energy performance.
The continuous insulation layer across the entire panel minimises heat transfer, significantly reducing thermal bridging—a common issue in traditional construction. As a result, buildings constructed with SIPs experience less heat loss in winter and lower heat gain in summer.
Then we have double-skin facades. It is an advanced architectural feature that enhances a building’s thermal performance, ventilation, and acoustic insulation. It usually consists of two layers of glass, separated by an air cavity that acts as a buffer between the indoor and outdoor environments.
What are the benefits of a double skin facade?
Improved energy efficiency and enhanced comfort are just two benefits of a double skin facade.
The space between the two layers can be naturally or mechanically ventilated, helping to regulate indoor temperatures.
- In winter, the air cavity traps heat, reducing heat loss and improving energy efficiency.
- In summer, warm air can be vented out, preventing overheating and minimising the need for artificial cooling.
Double-skin facades are widely used in modern, sustainable architecture. They strike a balance between energy efficiency, aesthetics, and occupant comfort.
This kind of solution reduces heating and cooling demands by optimising thermal insulation and helps maintain a stable indoor climate and minimises temperature fluctuations. The lower reliance on artificial heating and cooling contributes to reduced carbon emissions.
As previously mentioned, the combination of glass and metal is highly valued in the construction of contemporary facades. In this context, expanded metal plays a crucial role.
It is no coincidence that expanded metal is seriously considered by architects and facade designers. Not only does it stand out for its aesthetic potential, but it is also a key element in energy-efficient facades.
The meshes can be easily customised and shaped to form waves that make the cladding visual impact almost imperceptible. They work as an added layer, covering for example the glazing structure but ensuring transparency at the same time.
Since energy-efficient facade aim to ensure thermal comfort and natural light – without obstructing the view from inner spaces – expanded metal becomes the right option because it acts as a solar shading element.
- It can be positioned to deflect direct sunlight and cast shadows on the glazing.
- Patterns can be designed for different building orientations, ensuring an optimal balance of shading and daylighting.
- It helps regulate indoor temperatures and prevents overheating and excessive glare.
