Architectural Cladding Association
The Architectural Cladding Association's principal objectives are to increase awareness of architectural precast cladding and provide technical advice to specifiers and users. Members of the Association are required to meet strict criteria including a proven track record in design, manufacture and site erection.Sustainability and Precast Concrete Cladding
With the idea of sustainability now embedded in the construction industry, designers and clients need access to the environmental credentials of the products they specify. This new publication from the ACA makes this sometimes difficult subject more understandable and accessible by explaining the sustainability benefits of precast concrete cladding.
The guide, launched at the British Precast Conference in May 2009, has been welcomed throughout the industry. It sets out in clear detail the important benefits of precast cladding, with in-depth information on the precast manufacturing process and what ACA Members are doing to improve the sustainability of their products even further.
The guide is divided into five main sections:
- Sustainable performance in use
- Planning for a sustainable project
- Designing responsibly
- Sustainable manufacture
- Safe, sustainable construction
Key issues such as energy efficiency, zero carbon construction and responsible sourcing are clarified, along with the ways that precast factories save energy, reduce water consumption and make the most of automated manufacturing processes to optimise the use of materials and prevent waste.
Equally important is that precast cladding is a long-lasting product whose thermal mass, acoustic properties and resilience continue to provide ‘payback’ to the client, and all within an architecturally attractive building. The guide ends by saying “Precast concrete cladding has significant sustainability benefits to offer” and the ACA looks forward to seeing more precast cladding being used now that all the facts are at the specifier’s fingertips.
You can download a copy of the ACA’s publication here or email us at aca@britishprecast.org for a hard copy.
Cast in Concrete
by Susan Dawson
Cast in Concrete; a guide to the design of precast concrete and reconstructed stone
Precast concrete is a unique building material: it combines the visual qualities of a good stone with the advantages of prefabrication, opportunities for fabric energy storage and a solidity and strength which recall traditional concepts of enclosure. To make the most of these qualities you need to know how to use precast. Cast in Concrete, a book by Susan Dawson, architect and Working Details Editor of the AJ, will give you the knowledge. It describes how precast units are manufactured and finished, how decisions made in the design of a façade will affect the process of construction, and how to realise 'positive' procurement and fast-track construction. Over 20 useful case studies are included. Copies are priced at £25 each (cheques made payable to BPCF Ltd) International P&P - on application. Copies are available from the Architectural Cladding Association from the address below or by sending an email.