Leading developer of facade solutions, Carea, has launched a new cladding system that offers an attractive and cost effective method of renovating and insulating existing buildings.

Alpha has been developed by Carea to tackle the growing challenge of how to refurbish buildings. Simply mechanically fixed over existing facades, the system improves visual appearance and thermal performance, quickly, efficiently and cost effectively.

A mineral composite cladding system, Alpha is a dry fix system that is mechanically fixed to an existing facade. Highly versatile, the system can be fitted in virtually any weather conditions and is not dependent on the structural performance of the building. Incredibly lightweight at just 7 to 8.5 kg per m², the system is able to overclad failed, damaged or aged existing cladding and render.

As well as providing an efficient way of improving the aesthetics of existing buildings, Alpha can also help improve thermal performance. Available with insulation bonded to the cladding panel, the system provides a fast track method of upgrading properties without the need for major internal work. The system is BBA (British Board of Agrement) approved to provide specifiers and contractors with complete peace of mind that they are using a product that has been rigorously tested.

The system is available in a choice of eight colours, a range of insulation thicknesses from 40mm to 120mm and a range of product thicknesses, 3mm or 5mm thick, to suit a variety of building upgrade requirements. It is also available in three different finishes; matt, riven or textured render, and two different panel sizes; 700mm x 470mm and 510mm x 340mm. For further versatility Carea offers other cladding products including its Aranda, Aquila and Arkea ranges, in other dimensions, finishes and colours.

Offering easy maintenance for enhanced life cycle costs, Alpha can be used in conjunction with aluminium flashings for use in corner details and around windows. As well as providing improved aesthetics and excellent thermal efficiency to buildings, the system is also sustainable as it is manufactured using around 95% natural minerals.

With construction budgets being cut, Alpha looks like the ideal product to provide a much needed and cost effective method of regenerating schools, housing and commercial buildings all over the UK. Offering fast and efficient application along with good looks and thermal properties, Alpha ticks all of the right boxes.