Santiago Climent Baixauli, TAU’s UK area manager explains how ventilated facade systems play a part in modern construction
Exterior cladding systems are a key element of modern construction, playing a decisive role in the protection, performance, and visual expression of buildings
As architectural language inevitably evolves in response to the emerging needs of the market, tile cladding increasingly stands out as a popular and practical alternative to more traditional materials. This shift is driven largely by its proven technical reliability and the inherent safety advantages porcelain tiles guarantee.
When it comes to performance integrity, porcelain tiles are known for being a high performing ceramic material combining resistance and high functional capabilities. The core reason lies on its production process where the phenomenon known as vitrification happening during the baking period where they’re exposed to temperatures approaching 1200deg C. This provides the tile with its distinctive mechanical strength and low porosity reaching a <0.5% absorption rate.
As a result, it enables the cladding to possess exceptional thermal resistance, tolerating high temperatures without compromising structural integrity, which paired with its low flammability attribute makes it highly suitable for fire-prone environments. The low porosity allows the tile to repel water and avoid staining, keeping the surface unaffected by moisture and dirt.
Another key advantage of porcelain tile cladding lies in its low maintenance requirements, which distinguish it from conventional façade materials such as natural stone, concrete, or treated wood. Thanks to its vitrified surface and minimal porosity, dirt, dust, and environmental pollutants are easily removed with standard cleaning procedures, without the need for specialised treatments or protective coatings. Unlike natural stone, which often demands periodic sealing and careful upkeep, porcelain cladding maintains its aesthetic and functional performance over time with minimal intervention.
Ventilated façade systems represent a significant advancement in exterior cladding technology, combining the aesthetic versatility of porcelain tiles with enhanced functional performance. In these systems, tiles are mounted on a substructure that creates a continuous air cavity between the cladding and the building’s insulation layer. The air chamber helps regulate the heat transfer by reducing solar gain in summer and improving thermal retention in winter thereby improving the building’s overall energy efficiency. In addition to this, the airflow helps with the moisture dissipation and serves as an acoustic insulator. It’s a system that exemplifies how modern tile technology can address aesthetic and technical demands of a practice that has traditionally relied on masonry, stone and concrete.
When looking for aesthetically versatile designs without sacrificing performance, TAU offers various solutions. The brand has a portfolio that emphasises contemporary and innovative designs capable of transforming residential and commercial environments. Some collections can elevate the aesthetic appeal of facades, creating a refined and timeless expression that blends elegance with boldness. It’s also worth noting TAU’s contribution to the construction of the Roig Arena, Spain’s largest indoor stadium. For this project, TAU adopted a more industrial approach, using individual metallic tiles on the facade to create a sleek, modern, and futuristic atmosphere across the entire stadium cladding.
As building performance requirements become more stringent, porcelain cladding will continue to gain relevance thanks to its inherent capabilities. Emerging innovations particularly in the ventilated systems and large-format designs will further expand its architectural potential. With these advancements, tile cladding is set to become a defining element for future construction.
www.tauceramica.com
