The concept of modern ventilated facade, with all its technical complexity, has its roots in the “cavity wall” of 19th century English construction. This hollow wall, composed of two layers with an intermediate space, was presented as an alternative to the traditional solid wall. The initial air chamber served to prevent moisture from penetrating the interior, facilitating the expulsion of water.
Over time, this concept has evolved and established itself as one of the most effective systems for improving the efficiency of building facades. The ventilated facade allows for the renewal of indoor air, evacuating hot air through convection, which improves thermal control and reduces condensation formation.
KALAM is a company specializing in heritage restoration and building rehabilitation, with adaptations for different uses and compliance with regulations. They stand out for their implementation of various strategies to improve the energy efficiency of building envelopes. They offer a Comprehensive Management Service backed by extensive experience, covering all the necessary areas for the execution of these interventions.
The company has carried out numerous projects. In Portugalete, on Danok Bat street, KALAM has carried out the rehabilitation of the front and rear facades of a party wall building. This intervention included the removal of the existing tile finish and the installation of a ceramic ventilated facade to improve the energy performance of the property. Details such as the modification of the original drip ledges, replacing them with new composite ones, and the adaptation of facade installations were taken care of. In addition, the terraces were rehabilitated, replacing the railings with new stainless steel and glass ones, and carrying out waterproofing and flooring works.
The intervention also included the installation of an External Thermal Insulation System (ETICS) on the courtyard facades, with an acrylic finish. This strategy, widely used today, improves both the energy performance and the appearance of the facades, increasing the value of the property.
Another notable project by KALAM is located on La Pastora Avenue, also in Portugalete, where five blocks of flats were rehabilitated. A low absorption ceramic ventilated facade with rock wool insulation was installed on the main facade of this complex, while a composite finish was chosen for the rear. In addition, the roof was intervened, adding insulation over the existing sandwich panel and finishing with self-protected asphalt fabric. The upgrade of this envelope also included the replacement of all railings and clotheslines with new designs made of stainless steel and glass.
These types of interventions not only improve the energy efficiency of the properties, but also completely renew the appearance of all their facades.
Source: MiMub in Spanish
