The award of a new BBA certificate has underlined the quality and performance of a rainscreen cladding system manufactured by the UK’s leading provider of external wall insulation, rainscreen systems, renders, coatings and acoustic ceiling and wall products. The certificate has been awarded to the StoVentec Glass A system from Sto, and provides independent assessment that the system can be used on buildings above 18m in height, with a reaction to fire classification of A2-s1, d0.

The StoVentec Glass A system can be used as a protective or decorative façade cladding over the external walls of new or existing buildings, or alternatively as an internal wall lining. “The system is extremely versatile, so it’s great news that we’ve got this new BBA certification as it provides architects with all the reassurance they need to use StoVentec Glass A on their projects,” comments Greg Astill, Sto’s head of product management. “The certification covers many different areas, such as compliance with applicable Building Regulations, structural performance, behaviour in relation to fire, and durability, and we can support this reassurance by providing our customers with full technical guidance, right from initial design considerations through to installation, with project references”

The new certificate looks set to increase the popularity of the StoVentec Glass A system, which has already been used on a wide variety of projects, ranging from educational, residential and commercial buildings through to airport and rail transport hubs, as a result of further testing against impact, smoke emission and bomb blast.

“The independent nature of the BBA certification is an important point in emphasizing the performance and reliability of the system,” adds Greg. “We undertook a lengthy and ongoing process of testing and development for StoVentec Glass A, and in the process, we acquired a wealth of data which confirms the product quality. To have that data assessed and certified by the BBA means that architects can specify the system in complete confidence.”

The glass panels have a technically superior composite construction on an inert, unique backer panel.  Available in any RAL colour as standard, or screen printed in custom colours and with individual designs, the glass can be manufactured in bespoke sizes and shapes to satisfy specific project requirements, and so allows architects to give free reign to their design skills. An adjustable sub-construction enables it to accommodate uneven substrates, and when used externally it creates a ventilated cavity which keeps the wall dry and allows it to breathe, as well as providing effective thermal insulation.