Blog
How Substrates, Fasteners and Pull-Out Testing Shape Rainscreen Attachment
Rainscreen attachment must respond to project-specific wall conditions. Explore the decisions and field verification that help align the attachment strategy with the actual supporting construction.
Aluminum Cladding for Wind-Performance Requirements
See how wind-tested aPlank aluminum cladding supports project requirements through ASTM E330, TAS 202 and TAS 203 performance documentation.
Specifying Aluminum Cladding for IBC-Compliant Exterior Walls
aPlank extruded aluminum panels support IBC-compliant exterior wall strategies with noncombustible material performance, tested structural capabilities, and coordinated subframing for commercial facade applications.
ASTM E136 for Aluminum Cladding: Interpreting Noncombustibility
ASTM E136 establishes whether a cladding material meets noncombustibility criteria, but it does not confirm complete wall-assembly performance. This guide explains how to review the documentation and distinguish it from ASTM E84 and NFPA 285.
NFPA 285: What It Tests, What It Covers & Why It Matters for Cladding
NFPA 285 applies to the complete exterior wall assembly, not the cladding alone. This brief outlines what the test covers and what specifiers should verify in the supporting documentation.
Aluminum Cladding Code Compliance: Fire, Wind & Performance Standards
A practical overview of the code requirements governing commercial aluminum cladding assemblies, from ASTM E84 and NFPA 285 to ASTM E330 and Miami-Dade NOA, with guidance on the system-level documentation needed for specification and submittal.
Miami-Dade Approved Aluminum Rainscreen Systems for High-Performance Facades
aPlank aluminum rainscreen systems deliver Miami-Dade approved performance for projects requiring proven wind resistance, weather durability, and reliable code compliance.
Regulations and Safety Standards for Aluminum Facades
When it comes to aluminum facades, meeting fire and seismic regulations is not just a box to check, it’s about keeping people and property safe. These safety standards are mostly shaped by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the International Building Code (IBC).
NFPA 285, Simplified: aPlank’s Fire Performance = Faster Approvals
When designing multi-story facades, every specification decision can mean the difference between a smooth approval process and weeks of back-and-forth with plan reviewers. Fire performance is often one of the most scrutinized aspects, and it’s where aPlank delivers clear advantages.
aPlank Aluminum Siding Achieves ASTM E84 Class A Fire Rating
We’re excited to share some important news: aPlank’s Aluminum Siding with woodgrain finish has officially achieved a Class A rating in ASTM E84 testing, one of the most recognized fire performance standards in the building industry.