Frequently asked questions – CUPACLAD

Can CUPACLAD be installed on buildings up to 20 floors high?

Yes, CUPACLAD can be and has been installed on many multi-storey buildings around Europe. However, it is important to consider the wind exposer of each project, this can be calculated by the project engineer. CUPACLAD has received certification which shows excellence wind resistance.

Can CUPACLAD be installed with other materials: wood, concrete, masonry?

Yes, but it depends on the support wall, CUPACLAD must be fixed to the structural part of the material (concrete, wood, brick, …) and needs to be capable of absorbing the weight of the facade.

The support wall is responsible for ensuring the stability of the building and must be stable enough to support the weight of the coating, as well as the stress transmitted through it.

What is the recommended insulation material width?

The insulation differs per project, the type and width of the insulation needed is based on the thermal transmittance, and the needs of the work (type of construction, location, orientation of the building).

What are the advantages of a ventilated CUPACLAD façade?

No maintenance costs.
Fast and easy installation.
Combines with other materials.
Low water absorption.
High mechanical resistance.
High durability.
Energy saving.
No moisture.

Does CUPACLAD offer a warranty?

The CUPACLAD kit has a 10-year warranty. The installation process of the system is not covered by the guarantee. It must be the installation company that guarantees the assembly.

You can find an example of a warranty document here.

Why was CUPACLAD developed?

CUPACLAD is an ecological and sustainable natural slate façade, the system offers new styles and designs to architects, keeping up with the latest trends.

When was CUPACLAD developed?

The CUPACLAD design was established in 2006 but it wasn’t until 2015 when the systems were fully developed with metal structures etc.

What criteria should be considered when designing a ventilated façade?

Each project differs, so the architect needs to study the façade of each individual project, taking into account the dimensions of the slate, the style/design of the system including all external features such as windows, doors etc.
The installation must start from the corner of the façade moving inwards.
The structure and movement joints of the building must be taken into account when installing the ventilated façade as this makes the substructure and slate independent.

What is the wind resistance in region X and wind load in Y?

Although the wind resistance depends on where the building is located, and the local regulations enforced, we can confirm that the CUPACLAD systems fulfil the European norms related to the wind resistance requirements.

In fact, in the tests carried out, the maximum Pa values measured have been reached without product breakage or damage.

How to work around the crowning of the façade and the window gaps?

We offer cross sections which are designed for difficult areas (corners, window gaps, façade crowning, etc.). They are usually made of Stucco-texture aluminium.

More information available in our general catalogue.

What is the CUPACLAD weight per square metre?

CUPACLAD 101: ≤30 kg/m²
CUPACLAD 201: ≤25 kg/m²

What certificates does the CUPACLAD have?

The CUPACLAD systems have been awarded numerous certificates such as; BBA (British Board of Agreement) this certificate highlights the long-term optimal performance, and the ETA (European Technical Assessment) highlights the technical evaluation of the product features.

Additionally, our systems have successfully exceeded the impact and wind tests done by the CSTB, Centre Scientifique et Technique du Bâtiment.

Furthermore, the slate used in our Façade Special Selection has been endorsed with the highest European quality standards: the CEE marking, the French FE regulations, the Belgium ATG and the American ASTM.

How does CUPACLAD perform in extreme sunlight exposure and high temperatures?

Extreme weather and temperature changes are not a problem for our CUPACLAD systems. The systems have an air chamber which acts as a climate buffer and absorbs the temperature.

Can any type of slate be used with the CUPACLAD systems?

Unfortunately, not. The natural slate is carefully selected for the CUPACLAD systems and specific quality control tests are carried out to ensure high quality and exceptional performance.

The special selection ensures a quick and easy installation as only flat, smooth slates are selected. Furthermore, the slate is delivered with pre-holes to suit your chosen CUPACLAD design.

How do we replace a slate in each system (101) and (201)?

CUPACLAD 101:
You must cut the screw that was supporting the broken slate, install a new slate and drill the new slate with two screws. These two new screws would be visible so to avoid the contrast you should use black screws.
CUPACLAD 201:
You should open the clip and replace the broken slate with a new one.