Enhanced descriptions from Syndetics:

This key text addresses the topic of lightweight claddings in buildings and is a useful guide and reference resource.

Written by well-known specialists in the field, this fourth edition of an established text has been revised throughout to incorporate the latest environmental issues, the use of wood and terracotta in cladding, and use of new materials, particularly the new moulded materials. Two new chapters cover wood and terracotta in cladding. The main types of cladding systems are described in detail and methods of production, performance characteristics, applications and methods of assembly are explained clearly.

Illustrated throughout with photographs and numerous line drawings, this is an essential overview of the subject for both the student and the practising architect.

Table of contents provided by Syndetics

• Preface
• Acknowledgements
• Introduction
• The frame Knowledge of new materials
• Principles of jointing
• Forces moving water through an opening
• Segmentation of the air space
• Air seal on inner face
• Development of 'high tech'
• References
• 1 Precast concrete cladding
• Introduction Design guides
• Standardization and adjustable moulds
• Types of mould Casting method
• Tolerances Handling of units during transportation and on site
• Shape of precast concrete cladding panels
• Jointing Panel fixings
• Finishes Weathering
• References
• 2 Terracotta and brick slips
• Production of terracotta
• History of terracotta tiles
• Examples of use of terracotta
• Terracotta systems
• Development of tile size and finish Brick slip systems
• References
• 3 Glass-reinforced polyester
• Introduction GRP production GRP cladding in use
• Standardization of components
• Fire resistance
• Weathering Surface finish
• Panel stiffening Jointing Thermal expansion
• Fixings Conclusion
• References
• 4 Glass-fibre-reinforced cement
• The material and its advantages
• Production methods
• Insulated panels
• Finishes Performance characteristics
• Types of cladding Jointing Fixings Panel discussions and tolerances
• Handling of units on site and storage Conclusion References and further reading
• 5 Formed metal including profiled metal
• Forming of metal Profiled metal cladding and roof decking
• The industry Design guidance
• Method of manufacture
• Relevant standards Finishes for metal sheeting
• Performance criteria Installation
• References and further reading
• 6 Sheet metal, composite metal panels, and rain screens
• Introduction Composite metal panels
• Rolled sheet panels Rain screen panels
• Finishes Proprietary systems and their fixing Aspect II
• References and further reading
• 7 Curtain walling - glazing systems
• Definition Patent glazing
• Metal box framing Fire resistance
• Suspended glass assemblies
• Silicone-bonded glazing Glass
• References and further reading
• 8 Timber Cladding
• Introduction
• The material and its properties
• Anisotropy Sensitivity to changing humidity
• Durability Natural durability
• Environmental conditions
• Treatment Detailing of design
• Strength and thermal insulation
• Flammability Imperfections
• Sustainable forestry
• Solid wood and wood products
• A construction typology
• Cladding of sheets or shingles
• Curved structures
• Literature and references

Author notes provided by Syndetics

Alan J. Brookes has a worldwide reputation as an architect and cladding consultant. He has recently retired as Professor from Delft University of Technology. He is now a director of Alan Brookes Consultants based in Warwick, UK.

Maarten Meijs is a qualified architect who has worked in several architect's offices in the Netherlands. He is Senior Lecturer at the Delft University of Technology.