Non-load-bearing facades are frequently craned onto multi-story structures, with a particular emphasis on curtain wall systems, which employ aluminium-framed glass panels. By bolting prefabricated aluminium panel frames to the concrete or steel structural edge of the structure, these systems are typically assembled. Engineering bolts and brackets are employed to secure the aluminium frameworks, which are specifically engineered to withstand wind uplift forces, lateral loads, and the building's natural movements as a result of structural sway. Movement may be accommodated while alignment is preserved through the use of sliding joints or hinged connections. In order to permit material tolerances, prevent water infiltration, and absorb dynamic loads, the joints and gaps between contiguous frames are typically filled with flexible sealants, such as polyurethane sealants and polyethylene-based products such as Sika backing rod.

Masonry facades are a prevalent choice in Australian residential construction, particularly for Class 1 (single dwellings) and Class 2 (low-rise multi-unit) buildings. These high-embodied-energy facades typically consist of brickwork laid atop the building's structural slab. Prior to laying the bricks, a damp-proof course (DPC) is installed to prevent moisture from rising through the masonry via capillary action. The DPC must extend the full width of the wall and be continuous to effectively block moisture ingress

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The mortar mix used in masonry construction varies depending on environmental conditions. In coastal areas, where structures are exposed to salt-laden air, a mortar with higher resistance to salt attack is essential to prevent deterioration of the masonry. Brackets and ties are employed to maintain the structural integrity and alignment of the bricks, ensuring they remain securely attached to the building frame.

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For landscaping applications, concrete block retaining walls reinforced with starter bars are common. These walls provide structural support for green areas and can be finished with an external skin of extruded brick or other cladding materials, depending on architectural specifications.

Cladding panels—ranging from metal sheets to compressed fibre cement boards and ceramic tiles—are typically affixed to a cold-formed steel framing system. This steel framework, often constructed from C-studs with base metal thicknesses between 0.55 mm and 1.6 mm, provides a durable and lightweight substrate for the cladding materials. Panels are secured using self-tapping screws or concealed clips, ensuring they can withstand environmental stresses, including wind loads.

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Considerations Regarding Materials:

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• Metal cladding: Provides longevity and is frequently used for its elegant aesthetic. Installation necessitates meticulous alignment to ensure a consistent facade.

• Fibre Cement Boards: These boards are substantial and delicate prior to installation. They require a waterproof coating and are generally completed with exterior-grade paints to improve durability and aesthetics.

• Ceramic Tiles: Renowned for their durability against weathering and ultraviolet radiation, ceramic cladding systems, such as those provided by Metz Presto, offer a robust and non-combustible solution for facades.