ELEVATING EXTERIORS WITH EVA-LAST: Uncovering The (CONCEALED) Technical Benefits Of VistaClad
Cladding provides a stylish protective layer for buildings that enhances aesthetics while shielding them from environmental factors. Recent advances in material manufacturing have enhanced the functionality and finishes of cladding with modern composites being preferred to traditional materials such as stone, timber, or other cladding materials.
VistaClad, designed and manufactured by Eva-Last, is widely recognised as a revolutionary solution in the realm of building cladding. Combining advanced composite board technology with meticulous engineering, VistaClad not only enhances the visual appeal of structures thanks to its natural wood look but also delivers benefits such as thermal insulation and ventilation, as well as the recognised benefits of composite including durability, weather resistance, and ease of installation.
Let’s explore why VistaClad has become a favourite amongst architects, designers, contractors, and developers alike.
Composite Bamboo Composition
At the core of VistaClad’s superior performance lies its composite composition.
Engineered by extruding recycled plastic combined with eco-friendly bamboo fibres, the advanced formulation results in a robust material that provides enhanced functionality.
Unlike traditional cladding materials such as wood, fibre-cement, or aluminium, VistaClad resists discolouration, decay and deterioration caused by moisture, UV exposure, and temperature fluctuations and other environmental factors, with a warranty that covers decades.
Each VistaClad board comprises a composite core, capped with a protective polymer or acrylic coating embossed in popular textured timber tones. Designed to withstand wear and tear, and to prevent water ingress, the unique geometry of the VistaClad profiles averts accelerated weathering or corrosion by guiding water away from joints.
This ensures that structures clad with VistaClad maintain their integrity and appearance for years, reducing maintenance costs and prolonging the lifespan of façades.
Design Versatility
Available in sought-after wooden shades and species in two natural-looking finishes, VistaClad allows for creative expression while complementing diverse architectural styles. Whether aiming for a modern, sleek look or a rustic, natural aesthetic, VistaClad offers a variety of options to enhance a building’s façade.
Two material technologies, Apex and Infinity – differentiated by their core composition and manufacturing process that results in different textured finishes – provide attractive alternatives to suit any artistic vision.
Globally, Apex features a dual tone colour finish in 12 authentic timber tones, while Infinity offers a brushed, textured finish across 12 streaked shades.
Fixing System
The innovative interlocking board profiles provide system tolerance while improving load distribution and reducing moisture ingress. The reliable dual-spring clip-lock design allows the board profiles to securely click into place on your choice of clip strip and provide optimal ventilation and drainage. This structural integrity minimizes the risk of deformation, damage, or deterioration over time, ensuring long-term performance.
Easy Installation
Efficiency in construction is essential for project timelines and budgets. VistaClad’s lightweight design and convenient installation system streamline the cladding process, reducing labour costs and construction time. With its interlocking tongue-and-groove profiles and concealed clip-strip fasteners, matching adaptors, and trim profiles, VistaClad ensures a fast, efficient installation. What’s more, having the lightweight boards easily clip into place allows for a safe and secure installation.
Sustainable Solution
VistaClad aligns with environmental sustainability goals by promoting resource conservation through its recycled content, long lifespan, and low maintenance requirements. By choosing VistaClad, builders contribute to sustainable construction practices without compromising on quality or visual integrity.
Installation Considerations
Now, let’s explore key technical considerations that installers must bear in mind to optimize longevity of VistaClad cladding systems.
Substrate Preparation: Proper preparation of the substrate ensures a plumb surface on to which your clip strips will be installed. Having level and perfectly aligned clip strips will make installation easier and ultimately ensure the performance of your VistaClad project. The surface must be clean, dry, and structurally sound, with adequate support to accommodate the cladding system.
Clip-Strip Fastening System: With its concealed fastening system, VistaClad can be placed over a variety of substrates to enhance aesthetics. The system is available with three different clip strip options. The flat clip strip is adhered directly to the face of joists or framework. The channel clip strip can be installed over existing joists and can be fixed from the side or face. The top hat clip strip can replace joists and be attached directly to the substrate, and also has various fixing points. Installers should always follow manufacturer guidelines for spacing, alignment, and fastener placement to ensure uniformity and structural integrity.
Span: Ensure the span between cladding supports (600mm/24 inches for most residential and 450mm/18 inches near corners or windy areas) complies with regional standards. The shorter the span, the more interaction between boards and strips, the more difficult the installation.
Ventilation and Drainage: Make certain the cavity depth behind the cladding complies with regional standards, 20mm/0.8 inches is most common.
Ground Clearance: Most standards stipulate the minimum starting heights above ground level, typically 20mm. Water must be able to run from the building freely and no vegetation should prevent water egress.
Cutting and Finishing: Precision cutting tools and accessories are essential for achieving clean edges and seamless finishes in VistaClad installations. The VistaClad system provides nylon adaptors that allow for the fitting of aluminium trims for a neat, final finish. Proper finishing and compatible accessories or edge trims enhance durability and weather resistance.
VistaClad by Eva-Last epitomizes the convergence of technical innovation and architectural excellence in building cladding. Its composite composition, structural stability, and weather performance redefine industry standards, offering a sustainable, low-maintenance solution for enhancing building exteriors. By integrating VistaClad into their projects and adhering to best practices in installation, architects, builders, and property owners can elevate the aesthetics, durability, and longevity of their structures with confidence.
