The Birchett Road project in Aldershot involved the recladding of an existing building, delivering a high‑performance, non‑combustible aluminium cladding solution to upgrade fire safety, durability and long‑term facade performance. Located within a key town‑centre setting, the scheme required a compliant external wall solution that would meet current regulatory expectations while improving the visual consistency of the elevations.

The scope of works included the supply and installation of over 560m² of Vitradual solid aluminium cladding panels, finished in 3mm Cool Grey. The Vitradual system was selected as part of the recladding strategy to replace the existing external materials with a robust, low‑maintenance and non‑combustible solution suitable for refurbishment applications.

Installation was carried out by Vertec Ltd, acting as main contractor for the project. The panels were installed using a rivet‑fixed system, incorporating colour‑matched VitraFix rivets to ensure a clean and consistent finish across the side elevations and upper levels. This fixing method provided reliable mechanical performance while supporting straightforward installation and inspection on site.

The completed recladding scheme delivers a crisp, contemporary exterior that enhances the building’s presence within its town‑centre environment, while significantly improving the durability and safety of the external envelope.

The Vitradual solid aluminium cladding system was specified for the Birchett Road reclad due to its suitability for projects where fire safety, regulatory compliance and long‑term performance are critical considerations.

Vitradual panels are Classified A1 in accordance with EN 13501‑1, providing a fully non‑combustible reaction‑to‑fire performance. This classification supports compliance with current UK building regulations and guidance relating to external wall construction, particularly for refurbishment and recladding projects where the replacement of existing materials must demonstrably improve fire performance. In addition to reaction‑to‑fire classification, the Vitradual system offers a robust and well‑engineered rainscreen solution. 

Its design and installation methodology align with CWCT‑recognised rainscreen principles, supporting effective drainage, ventilation and tolerance management across the facade. The rivet‑fix installation method delivers a mechanically secure solution that allows for consistent quality control, repeatable installation and ease of future inspection - all important factors for long‑term building management.

The system is supported by established technical assessment processes, with aluminium rainscreen systems such as Vitradual subject to BBA‑recognised testing frameworks and independent performance evaluation. This provides additional confidence in areas such as weather resistance, durability and whole‑life facade performance.

By combining Classified A1 non‑combustibility, proven system design and durable aluminium construction, Vitradual was a strong choice for the Birchett Road recladding project. The system delivers a compliant and resilient external wall solution while providing a high‑quality finish appropriate for a prominent town‑centre refurbishment.

ABOUT VITRADUAL

VitraDual is one of the few large format cladding panels that are truly 100% non-combustible achieving A1* to BS EN 13501-1.  Also tested to BS8414-2 for fire performance of external cladding systems and compliant to BR135 requirements - certificates are available which include VitraDual in specific configurations.

Please download the test reports here for full specifications, limitations and criteria.