Falcondale Court, built in 2016, is a contemporary residential development located in the Park Royal area of West London. The building features modern flats with a range of amenities, contributing to the area's growing appeal as a vibrant, urban community.

In 2021, plans were initiated to replace the building’s original façade cladding, which was found to be non-compliant with updated fire safety regulations. To ensure the highest standards of safety, the decision was made to install a non-combustible cladding system.

Main contractors Fleetwood Architectural Aluminium specified Valcan’s VitraDual rainscreen cladding system in Basalt Grey as the replacement.

VitraDual is a robust aluminium cladding solution that is classified A1 in accordance with BS EN 13501-1, ensuring it is non-combustible and makes it suitable for high-rise and safety-critical buildings. While it visually resembles traditional composite panels, VitraDual is made entirely from 100% solid aluminium, avoiding the use of combustible cores such as polyethylene or fire-rated mineral fillers.

VitraDual is also available in 2mm and 3mm thicknesses as standard. Due to its high strength, 2mm 5754 VitraDual can span greater than 3mm PPC coated 1050 grade panels, offering weight and cost savings without compromising aesthetics, quality or safety. 

The VitraDual panels were prefabricated off-site into standing seam profiles, a design choice that offers both functional and aesthetic advantages. Standing seam cladding is renowned for its exceptional weather resistance, with raised seams and concealed fixings that help prevent water ingress - ideal for the UK’s variable climate. In addition to its performance, the system delivers a sleek, modern appearance, characterised by clean vertical lines and a smooth, architectural finish.

The completed remediation project has significantly enhanced the building’s façade, providing both aesthetic and functional improvements. Most importantly, it now offers building owners and residents greater peace of mind, knowing that the building meets building safety standards. With the installation of VitraDual, the building is not only safer but also more efficient and designed to require less maintenance over time.