Euroform has introduced NICHIHA, a rainscreen panel available in a range of finishes .
The NICHIHA rainscreen system has undergone rigorous testing, successfully meeting CWCT sequence B requirements for wind resistance, water tightness and impact performance. The successful test programme provides independent validation of the system’s performance and suitability for specification, says UK distributor Euroform.
Left: Euroform’s NICHIHA rainscreen system test wall.
Right: Euroform’s NICHIHA rainscreen system undergoes testing according to CWCT requirements.
Developed by the Centre for Window and Cladding Technology, the robust CWCT test standards are a key indicator of the safety and performance of building envelopes. Euroform invested a five-figure sum in testing at UL Solutions’ labs in Telford. NICHIHA performed exceptionally to CWCT sequence B test regime including full passes against water leakage and wind pressure testing elements.
Newly introduced to the UK by Euroform, the NICHIHA rainscreen system has been classified for reaction to fire as A2-s1,d0 to BS EN 13501-1.
Nichiha’s EX Series rainscreen cladding is available from Euroform.
“The NICHIHA system performed exceptionally due in no small part to the unique interlocking profile of the cladding panels and its 16mm thickness,” explains Euroform’s Technical Director John Taylor. “The system benefitted from the use of a Downer helping hand bracket and rail support system designed bespoke for Euroform’s test.” he adds.
“The testing investment and performance results signal Euroform’s entry into the rainscreen cladding market with this outstanding product,” says Mark Atkinson Head of Building Envelope at Euroform. “Customers can be assured that the system works as it should in terms of real-life environment.”
Nichiha’s EX Series rainscreen cladding offers a choice of looks including wood.
NICHIHA is a low-maintenance, textured finish, decorative rainscreen panel, which combines the durability of fibre cement with a wide range of looks, including wood, metal, brick, stone and concrete. NICHIHA’s EX Series collection is a commercially competitive option for low to medium-height buildings – homes, schools, leisure centres, offices and modular buildings.
Developed by NICHIHA, Tokyo, the system has been widely used in Japan, the US and Australia on projects including the Detroit Pistons Performance Centre, Hyatt Place Hotel and Wichita State University, and for retail chains McDonalds, ALDI, Burger King and Wendy’s for example.
The NICHIHA rainscreen system is available from Euroform in a wide range of aesthetics.
NICHIHA’s unique ultimate clip secret fix installation system was used in the test programme. The clip system helps to reduce construction time when compared with traditional secret fix fibre cement claddings.
Euroform and NICHIHA have agreed an exclusive partnership in the UK. Euroform has developed, fabricated and supplied materials for the UK construction industry since 1995.
