Cladding Contractors
Cladding is a technique where we add an extra layer of protective material over another. In thermal insulation, it helps keep the right temperature and makes pipes and ducts tougher against the weather, while also making them look better.
Thermal Clad are leading industrial & commercial cladding contractors serving companies within the public and private sectors. We have over 40 years of combined experience as cladding installers, specialising in the insulation of pipes, ductwork, and plant items such as tanks and vessels. No matter your system, our expert team will cater our cladding services to your requirements.
Cladding for Pipes and Ductwork
Cladding for pipes and ductwork involves adding an insulating layer to these components, serving two critical purposes. Firstly, it acts as a protective barrier that helps maintain desired temperatures within pipes and ducts, preventing heat loss or gain. This is essential for energy efficiency and cost savings, particularly in systems that transport fluids or air at specific temperatures. Secondly, the cladding provides a shield against external weather conditions or indoor chemical spills, safeguarding the structural integrity of the components over time. By ensuring consistent temperatures and enhanced durability, thermal cladding for pipes and ductwork significantly contributes to efficient operations and the extended lifespan of these systems.
In terms of the materials used, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all option. Cladding can be made up of sheet metal, Polyisobutylene, weatherproof jacketing systems and Isogenopak with each material offering different pros and cons. The choice of which to use depends entirely on the project at hand.
The cladding installation process also changes depending on numerous factors. Particularly with wind resistance, the type of thermal cladding chosen and how it is fixed to the insulated pipe or duct is very important. As leading commercial & industrial insulation contractors, we will be more than happy to discuss your cladding installation requirements and even provide a free quote!
Expert Thermal Cladding Installers
Insulating the pipes and ducts in a building for better temperature control can significantly cut down on energy costs. Our specialised thermal cladding installation service can help you save money and reduce energy waste.
We are dedicated cladding contractors and have been accredited as safe contractors. We have our own fabrication workshop, which allows us to create custom sheet metal cladding, including casings and fittings, with precision. This off-site production ensures efficiency and fast project turnaround.
We also offer a supply-only service, whereby we are able to manufacture sheet metal cladding on a supply-only basis for other companies. No matter the size, complexity, or industry, we're here to discuss and meet your thermal cladding requirements professionally.
Our Thermal Cladding Services
With over 40 years of combined experience installing cladding for interior and exterior pipes, ducts, and plant items including tanks and vessels, Thermal Clad Ltd are skilled thermal cladding contractors. Our thermal cladding services are available for the following materials:
Weatherproof Jacketing
Weatherproof jacketing offers a premium multi-layered laminate system, which provides weatherproof cladding to insulated exterior pipes and ductwork. This consists of a membrane made of a 5 or 10-ply aluminium and polymer...
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Metal Cladding
Metal cladding functions similarly to other types of external cladding, serving to shield insulated pipes or ducts. Metal cladding is typically made of plain or stucco aluminium, Aluzinc, plastisol, galvanized, or stainless...
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Polyisobutylene Cladding (PIB Cladding)
Polyisobutylene (PIB) cladding serves as the ideal weatherproof cladding, providing a resilient protective layer to exposed external pipes and ductwork. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to shield against not only UV...
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Isogenopak Cladding
Isogenopak cladding, made from PVC film, offers impressive insulation advantages. It protects pipes from chemicals, moisture, and damage, improving their reliability. Its impermeability maintains insulation performance and prevents mould growth. The lightweight,...
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Thermal Cladding - Key Benefits
01.
Enhanced safety and protection to exposed thermal insulation
Installing cladding to insulation provides better protection. It helps resist things like sunlight, rain, and reduces water absorption. The protective layer also makes insulation tougher against air pollution, chemicals, and mould. The benefits of cladding for pipes and ducts are well-known in the thermal insulation industry.
02.
Improved system performance
In heating and cooling systems, installing cladding is very important. Cladding works to protect the insulation material that maintains the right temperatures for liquids in pipes and air in ducts. It also helps to prevent problems like condensation, rust, and microbes from damaging these insulated systems. This makes your insulated systems work better and last longer, boosting their efficiency and reliability.
03.
Improved aesthetics
Cladding installation goes beyond just protecting insulation – it also makes insulated systems look better. This can be for appearance or safety reasons, helping with easy identification. Additionally, cladding gives a neat finish to exposed pipes and ducts, matching your business's colours. For external pipes and ductwork, local regulatory mandates might need to be followed to prevent unnatractive installations. So, cladding is not only about protection; it's also about making things visually appealing and following the rules when needed.
Thermal Cladding Contractors With Experience
We are dependable thermal cladding contractors and have enjoyed installing cladding for a number of prominent companies throughout the UK. Regardless of the complexity of your systems, you can count on us to deliver excellent cladding services.
Click on the projects below to see some of our work and learn about our clients' successes.
Works included insulation to heating, chilled water, domestic services, as well as ductwork, throughout 2no. high-rise tower block buildings
The works included the insulation and cladding of identical units and associated ductwork.
Works included insulation to ductwork in relation to 2no. large kilns and 1no. large drier. This is one of our largest projects to date.
The works included the trace heating, insulation and cladding of pipework systems with the installation of jackets to valves, flanges and instruments at an AD plant facility.
Insulation work here included grey Velcro insulation mats to valves and flanges as a better alternative to aluminium clad boxes.
We installed electrical trace heating for frost protection on numerous surge vessels on site to upgrade the water supply system.
Thermal Clad installed insulation and cladding of a new steam distribution system at Oxoid, a part of Thermo Fisher Scientific.
We completed the installation of pipework and vessels to clear up sewage before putting water back into the river.
Entering into the renewable energy space, we installed an ESP (Electrostatic Precipitator) unit.
Works included insulation to heating and chilled water services, as well as ventilation throughout the building.
The UK's Leading Insulation Experts
Over the last two decades, we have helped many commercial and industrial businesses with their pipe and ductwork insulation. No matter how complex your system is, we guarantee that we have the expertise needed to insulate it.
But you don't have to take our word for it; read what our happy clients have had to say about our fantastic insulation services.
T. Evans
Project Manager
C. Enfield
Project Manager
I. Smith
Project Manager
M. Sumner
Business Manager
G. Harris
Project Engineer
V. Keep
Project Supervisor
M. Powers
Project Manager
Expert Guides
Our goal at Thermal Clad is to not only provide our customers with the finest service possible but also to keep them informed about new products and industry trends.
Please feel free to check out some of our expert insulation guides below:
Expert Guide – Cladding Expertise
Various types of sheet metal cladding can be used to cover insulation. This protects against the elements and can…
Thermal Insulation Materials: 4 Types of Materials Used in Thermal Insulation
The importance of choosing the right material for thermal insulation Thermal insulation is the reduction of the transfer of…
Rock Mineral Wool Insulation Vs Glass Wool Insulation
Rock Mineral Wool Insulation & Glass Wool Insulation Rock Mineral Wool & Glass Wool Insulation Types: What are they…
Thermal Cladding - FAQs
The amount of thermal cladding you will need depends on several factors including the desired insulation level, the type of thermal cladding, the area to be covered and any local building regulations. When ordering your cladding it is advised to add a small percentage to cover wastage, overlap and errors.
The safety of pipe and ductwork cladding is crucial for the well-being of the building occupants and regular inspections and maintenance will keep it compliant and ensure the overall integrity. Make sure the cladding was installed in accordance with local building regulations and it meets fire safety standards. Inspect for water resistance, adequate ventilation and damage or deterioration, and assess if the cladding has affected structural integrity. As the UK’s leading cladding experts, you can rely on Thermal Clad to meet all safety standards and regulations.
The cost of thermal cladding depends on various factors including the material used, the complexity of the installation, the coverage area and the location. Additional labour costs, preparatory work and contractor fees can increase the total, so it is recommended to request an accurate estimate prior to commencement.
Always check the details of your insurance policies to ascertain whether your cladding is covered or not. If it isn’t covered, you can find better deals by ensuring building regulations and fire safety compliance are followed whilst using the safest recommended materials.
Whether you need planning permission or not for your pipe or ductwork cladding depends on various factors. In many areas cladding is considered a ‘permitted development’ meaning you don’t require any permission if all specific conditions are met. If the cladding is in a conservation area, will alter the external appearance of the building, or in a high-rise structure then you will likely require planning permission, but the first step is to consult with local planning authorities. In essence, if your external pipes or ductwork require cladding, then the clad finish has to be a particular colour or aesthetically pleasing to fit with the local area schemes.
The length of time a cladding installation project can take depends on various factors. The size of the area and complexity of the installation will widely vary the completion time, but other possible affecting factors include the type of cladding material and its availability, installation methods and weather conditions. A medium-sized building with several floor levels of insulated ductwork and pipework services which require cladding could take anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of months and it is strongly advised you obtain a detailed timeline from your contractor before project commencement.
If looked after correctly, regularly maintained and constantly monitored and inspected, quality cladding installed by professionals can be expected to last a great number of years. However, the expected lifespan varies depending on the material used.
Much like the time it takes for cladding installation, there is no absolute answer as various factors come into play. As well as the installation considerations such as coverage area, material, installation method, contractor efficiency and weather conditions you also must consider the possible removal complications. These can vary depending on the material used, the condition and age of the cladding, potential additional structure repair, the size of the area and the weather conditions.
It is essential to consult a professional contractor like Thermal Clad to get a more accurate estimate on your specific project.
Installation processes vary depending on the material used and the size and shape of your pipes, ductwork, tanks or vessels. However, there are some general steps commonly followed in cladding installation including surface preparation, support structure creation and placement, moisture barrier installation, cladding installation and sealing and finish.
Get in touch with one of our professional cladding contractors to discuss your specific requirements and let us guide you through the whole process.