Façades play a critical role in the durability and sustainability of buildings, where the design of façades is a critical aspect of building performance, that requires careful consideration of many factors such as sealing interfaces considering building movement and fire safety. Given the increasing prevalence of façade fires in the UK, façade fire safety has become critical and mandatory. The consequences of inadequate sealing interfaces can be dire, leading to water leaks, lack of airtightness, energy inefficiency, poor indoor air quality, and even mould growth.

According to the UK Building Regulations Part A, the design of the building's structure should consider the combined effects of dead loads, imposed loads, wind loads, and ground movement. British Standard BS 6180:2011 provides guidelines for the design of barriers and loading that includes requirements for the structural performance of glazing systems. British Standard BS 8213-4:2016 also provides guidelines for the installation of windows and doors, including methods for accommodating differential movement between the frame and surrounding structure. The flexibility of a façade and its ability to accommodate movement are critical to ensuring the safety and durability of a building's facade.

Effisus ProFlex FR membrane is a prime example of a cutting-edge solution that effectively addresses the challenges of sealing an interface while considering both elongation and fire safety in façade sealing. This multi-layered, fire-rated, weatherproofing elastic membrane boasts an impressive more than 200% elongation capacity, exceptional resistance to puncture, and outstanding mechanical resistance, with high tensile and tear strength. Its fire performance is rated B-s3 d0 according to BS EN 13501-1, in conformity with Building Regulations 2010 - Approved Document B updated June 2022. Not only is Effisus ProFlex FR watertight and energy efficient meeting the necessary safety and performance requirements, it also offers ease of installation and a visually distinct white colour to prevent potential installation errors.

Effisus ProFlex FR represents a groundbreaking solution to the challenges of façade sealing for movement and fire safety, with its exceptional mechanical and fire performance, as well as its ease of installation and customisation, you’ll no longer have to compromise on safety or efficiency. At Effisus, they strive to provide excellence in weatherproofing, where their solutions combine Efficiency and Sustainability, always promoting integrated systems with high added value and superior quality. At Effisus, they are able to provide a fully fire rated façade envelope system. They can now protect all your façade elements against fire.

The future of façade design is exciting, and it's up to us to shape it. The demand for new technologies that meet the demands of the 21st century is growing, and it's time to move beyond traditional sealing solutions. We need groundbreaking alternatives that prioritise safety, sustainability, and efficiency. As we build for the future, we must consider the impact of our choices on the environment and on the health and well-being of a building’s occupants. Façades are not just building exteriors; they are the faces of our entire communities.

We must also consider the human impact of our buildings. The tragic episode of Grenfell tower and the recent story of Awaab's Law serves as warning & reminder of the importance of designing buildings with the life, health and well-being of their occupants in mind. We must ask ourselves, what kind of world do we want to live now and in the future? One where people are forced to live in substandard housing conditions, or one where everyone has access to safe and healthy living spaces? Let us strive for buildings that prioritise health, safety and well-being of their occupants and perform well. After all, our buildings are not just structures; they are the places where we live, work, and play.