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What are the advantages of ventilated facades in porcelain stoneware?

From a building engineering perspective, this solution offers:

  • Protection to safeguard the wall structures: the insulating cavity and the class A1 ceramic material guarantee maximum safety of the facade system , eliminating humidity and protecting the building from the elements;
  • Efficiency and comfort: the system promotes significant acoustic insulation of ventilated facades and optimizes the building’s thermodynamics, generating energy savings of up to 20%;
  • Optimized management: the absolute inalterability of stoneware ensures significantly simpler and more economical maintenance in the long term compared to plaster;
  • Aesthetics and design: the modular flexibility of ventilated facades makes this system ideal for enhancing architectural aesthetics, allowing installation even on pre-existing buildings without the need for demolition.

Do you manage the entire project, ensuring the design, supply, and installation of the ventilated facade with a single point of contact?

Yes. Our approach ensures the creation of turnkey ventilated facades , providing centralized management of all operational phases: from drafting the estimate to the correct engineering of the facade system to resolve complex issues, coordinating procurement logistics and directly managing the installation of the final ventilated facades.

Does the ventilated facade constitute an increase in cubic capacity?

No. When designing ventilated facades , and in compliance with current legislation on energy efficiency, it is calculated that the technical volumes generated by the external envelope do not contribute to increasing the calculation of the useful volume of the building.

Can porcelain stoneware be installed together with other finishes in a ventilated facade system?

The modularity of the system allows for the installation of different materials and finishes for ventilated facades on the same building , ensuring maximum executive flexibility for the Client’s project and a distinctive aesthetic result.

Can all ceramic products be used as cladding for ventilated facades?

Yes, engineered ceramic material (whether colored, glazed, or full-body) is the ideal solution for creating external ventilated facades in porcelain stoneware . Its suitability for use as an external cladding is determined by its intrinsic characteristics of extremely high mechanical flexural strength and total frost resistance, thanks to its virtually zero water absorption.

What is the fire behavior of ventilated facades?

All ceramic elements making up the external facing of the architectural envelope are non-combustible, ensuring maximum fire safety for ventilated facades . When exposed to extreme heat, these inert materials do not in any way contribute to the development or spread of flame.

What material is the supporting infrastructure of ventilated facades made of?

The façade structure is extruded from 6060 aluminum alloy. The components used to anchor the ventilated façade and attach the panels are instead stamped from AISI 316 stainless steel, to ensure maximum tensile strength and oxidation resistance over time.

What panel formats can be used in a ventilated facade system?

The geometric tolerances of the anchoring infrastructure allow for the acceptance of different formats of stoneware slabs for ventilated facades , starting from the standard dimensions of 60×30 cm up to the use of large-format modules of 260×120 cm.

Why is installing a ventilated facade system preferable to traditional thermal insulation?

The main advantages of ventilated facades over traditional thermal insulation systems lie in the system’s superior thermodynamic and mechanical performance. The efficiency of the envelope is enhanced by three key engineering factors:

  • Greater breathability: guaranteed by the use of highly breathable insulating materials and by the creation of facades without paints and primers , elements which instead tend to seal the walls in external insulation systems;
  • Thermodynamic screening: the creation of an air gap interrupts direct solar radiation, reducing accumulated heat and promoting its removal through the chimney effect generated by ventilated facades . This mechanism also removes rainwater from the insulation layer and maximizes air exchange during the humid season;
  • Structural and material resistance: the durability of stoneware facades allows for exterior surfaces with unparalleled resistance and durability over time, eliminating the risk of cracking or deterioration typical of plaster.

Do you have SOA certifications for installing ventilated facades in public procurement?

Yes. Imola Tecnica holds the specific certifications (including the OS18-B category) required for validation in public tenders. This qualification allows us to formally operate as a specialized building envelope partner , assuming full responsibility for the project and directly managing the projects for the construction of turnkey ventilated facades .

How are stoneware slabs supported in a ventilated facade?

The panels are supported by stainless steel accessories that secure the cladding to the aluminum frame. The structure uses mechanical fastening systems certified for ventilated facades, available in two versions:

  • Systems with exposed anchoring , where the retaining hooks remain exposed;
  • Systems with invisible anchoring , in which the supports are located on the back of the slab.

The choice between ventilated facades with exposed or concealed anchoring is defined during the structural design phase, calibrating the aesthetic needs and budget constraints of the construction site.

What are the real maintenance costs of a ventilated facade over time?

The system requires no specific scheduled maintenance. Maintenance of porcelain stoneware ventilated facades requires only simple visual checks every few years to ensure the mechanical integrity of the components. From a material perspective, the ventilated facades offered by Imola Tecnica benefit from the high durability of porcelain stoneware : the complete absence of cracks and resistance to UV degradation drastically reduce maintenance costs compared to traditional plasters.

Is it possible to install ventilated facades on existing buildings?

Absolutely. Installing a ventilated façade for the energy retrofit of existing buildings is technically suitable for façade renovations . Being a dry-assembled system, it allows for covering damaged plaster without the need for demolition. The resulting cavity also provides the necessary space to conceal existing pipes or structural elements.

What are the fire safety requirements of the RTV 13 regulation for ventilated facades?

The RTV 13 regulation establishes very stringent fire safety parameters for ventilated facades , penalizing the use of plastic or composite materials. Porcelain stoneware ventilated facades naturally meet these requirements because stoneware is an inorganic and inert material, certified as a Class A1 non-combustible material. External architectural stoneware cladding does not fuel flames in any way and does not contribute to the spread of fire.

What are the main advantages of a raised floor?

Choosing a technical porcelain stoneware floor offers technical and operational benefits that revolutionize space management:

  • Immediate inspection: the removal of individual modules allows access to the system networks at any time without construction work;
  • Layout flexibility: dry operation greatly simplifies the redistribution of spaces, proving to be one of the major advantages of raised floors during complex redevelopment projects;
  • Acoustic comfort: the high mass and density of the ceramic material dampens vibrations, reducing the noise of footsteps and systems;
  • Optimized management: entrusting the design and installation of raised floors to a single general contractor eliminates buck-passing, providing the client with a turnkey floating floor within a defined timeframe.

Can raised floors be built on sloping surfaces?

Absolutely. Micrometric calibration of the support heads allows for level adjustments. This versatility of stoneware floating floors allows designers to absorb existing slopes in existing floors, making it easy to install a raised floor with low levels even in complex structural situations.

Can the raised floor be used in humid environments such as bathrooms and/or kitchens?

Yes, installation in environments with a high risk of spills presents no problem for a porcelain stoneware raised floor . The sintered substrate is completely non-absorbent. For installation in bathrooms or industrial kitchens, we recommend the sealed-joint floating floor version : the intersecting joints are filled with waterproof silicone grout, blocking leaks at the root.

Can a raised floor be heated?

Certainly, modular panel radiant systems are foreseen, which are placed under the surface layer of the heated floating floor , to form a second plenum in which the low-temperature radiant system is set up.

How high can I install a raised floor?

Floating floors can be installed up to 1.5 m high, using accessories to stabilize the system.

Can a raised floor be used in a renovation?

Absolutely. Raised floors for renovations allow for work on existing floors, thanks to their easy installation without mortar or adhesives, reducing the impact of the renovation on existing spaces. This versatility allows designers to:

  • install a raised floor with low levels , resolving the structural constraints of the old attics;
  • preserve the historic flooring with a technical flooring , laying the new modules directly on the quality surfaces without scratching them;
  • exploit a low-thickness raised floor to conceal modern distribution networks while complying with the Superintendencies’ constraints.

How do floating stoneware floors behave in the face of fire?

The raised floor in porcelain stoneware is classified according to the UNI 13501-1 and 13501-2 standards, and the Bfl-S1 and REI 30 classifications can be obtained respectively.

What type of maintenance is required for a raised floor?

Aside from a regular annual inspection, which monitors only for dust accumulation or the emergence of problems with the screed, the floor requires no special maintenance. This radical lack of special interventions significantly reduces the cost of the technical flooring in the long run.

How does the raised floor integrate with the systems?

All networks can be easily routed within the cavity created by the supports: structured data cables, fire protection, electrical panels, or plumbing. Choosing a raised technical floor allows for the quick removal of each panel using special professional suction cups. This feature makes the space accessible for inspection at any time, preserving the stability of the raised technical floor and allowing for layout updates without the need for construction or demolition.

Can the same material be used for the raised floor both inside and outside the building?

Yes, breaking down the aesthetic boundaries of the building envelope is one of the unique benefits of structural ceramics. The outdoor raised floors we provide are resistant to rot and freeze-thaw cycles, preserving their original structure. This feature allows architects and designers to extend the finishes of indoor raised floors to outdoor spaces such as terraces or rooftops, maintaining a rigorous material and functional alignment.

Is a raised floor with stoneware supports noisier when walked on than one with chipboard or calcium sulphate supports?

No, the perception that ceramic is inferior in acoustics is a false myth debunked by technical data. Evaluating the impact noise of raised floors with stoneware supports , the sound insulation values ​​are aligned with those of sulphate systems. The high mass and density of the sintered support (approximately 2,200 kg/m³) effectively dampen vibrations. The numbers confirm the parity of performance, ensuring high acoustic comfort even for technical floors in executive offices or open-plan spaces.

Come gestite la sicurezza strutturale in caso di carichi pesanti?

La sicurezza è al centro della nostra ingegnerizzazione. Per ambienti soggetti a carichi concentrati o distribuiti elevati, il pannello (che sia l’anima in gres o altri materiali) viene rinforzato strutturalmente. Utilizziamo speciali reti in fibra di vetro o vaschette in lamiera di acciaio galvanizzato applicate all’intradosso: queste tecnologie prevengono il collasso fragile del materiale, garantendo tenuta e sicurezza anche in condizioni di rottura accidentale.

I vostri sistemi sono conformi ai criteri CAM per gli appalti pubblici?

Assolutamente sì. Tutti i sistemi di pavimentazione Imola Tecnica possiedono certificazioni native e documentazione attestante l’elevata percentuale di materiale riciclato. Rispondono integralmente ai Criteri Ambientali Minimi (CAM) obbligatori per il Green Public Procurement (GPP) in Italia, e contribuiscono all’ottenimento dei crediti per i protocolli di sostenibilità LEED e BREEAM.

Perché scegliere il sistema gres su gres rispetto al solfato di calcio?

Il nostro sistema esclusivo “gres su gres” da 26mm garantisce un’inassorbenza totale, a differenza dei pannelli in solfato di calcio che temono l’umidità e l’acqua. Questo si traduce in stabilità dimensionale assoluta nel tempo, facilità di manutenzione e lavaggio, e un notevole risparmio di spessore che risulta fondamentale nelle riqualificazioni architettoniche con quote vincolate.

Quali sono i requisiti per l’adeguamento RTV 13?

La norma RTV 13 richiede che i componenti della facciata non contribuiscano alla propagazione del fuoco. Il gres porcellanato in Classe A1 e i sistemi di fissaggio meccanico certificati di Imola Tecnica sono progettati per eccedere tali requisiti di sicurezza.

Come influisce la facciata ventilata sul risparmio energetico?

Il sistema agisce come un isolamento continuo esterno che elimina i ponti termici. L’intercapedine d’aria attiva un “effetto camino” che espelle il calore in estate e riduce la dispersione termica in inverno, portando a risparmi energetici fino al 30%.

I vostri installatori sono personale interno?

L’installazione è affidata a squadre di posatori fiduciari altamente specializzati e formati continuativamente da Imola Tecnica, coordinati direttamente dai nostri direttori tecnici di cantiere per garantire lo standard qualitativo aziendale.

Gestite anche le pratiche e le certificazioni necessarie?

Sì. Il nostro ufficio tecnico fornisce tutti i calcoli strutturali firmati da ingegneri abilitati, la documentazione di conformità CAM per i materiali e le certificazioni antincendio (inclusa la rispondenza alla RTV 13), indispensabili per la chiusura dei lavori.

Cosa significa esattamente “Chiavi in mano” per Imola Tecnica?

Significa che stipuliamo un unico contratto che copre rilievo, progettazione strutturale, fornitura di tutti i materiali (gres, isolante, sottostruttura) e installazione. Il cliente ha un solo Project Manager di riferimento, azzerando le zone grigie di responsabilità tra diversi fornitori.

Why choose a ventilated façade instead of cladding?

The main factors that enhance the performance of a façade compared to plaster are:

  • Breathability: thanks to the breathable insulating materials and the absence of paints and primers;
  • Shielding: the air gap allows the irradiation directly incident on the wall to be interrupted, thereby obtaining a reduction in the heat accumulated by the walls, as well as its elimination inside the gap by means of the chimney effect that is generated. The elimination of the rain from the insulating layer and the greater exchange of air during the damp season are added factors;
  • Duration: the application of stoneware slabs allows the surfaces to have unparalleled resistance and durability over time

Which slab formats can be used in a ventilated façade system?

The façade system allows formats ranging from 60 x 30 cm to large format slabs 260 x 120 cm to be installed.

What is the material of the supporting structure of the ventilated façade?

Some components of the façade structure are made of 6060 aluminium, whereas others are made of AISI 316 steel, to obtain maximum resistance over time.

Are incentives provided for ventilated façade works?

Yes, they fall under the energy efficiency improvement works that can result in a deduction depending from local norms.

What kind of maintenance does the ventilated façade need?

The materials making up the façade system do not require scheduled maintenance. Simple visual checks of component integrity on a multi-year basis are sufficient.

What kind of maintenance does the ventilated façade need?

The materials making up the façade system do not require scheduled maintenance. Simple visual checks of component integrity on a multi-year basis are sufficient.

What kind of fire behaviour does the ventilated façade have?

The elements constituting the ventilated façade do not feed the flame in any way.

Is the ventilated façade suitable to be installed in an existing building?

Certainly.
This is a system suitable for covering deteriorated plaster, renewing the aesthetics of the building, also masking any adaptations made on the external elements of the building (pipes, structural elements) that can be concealed in the gap of the façade.

Are all ceramic products suitable to be installed in a ventilated façade?

Porcelain stoneware can be used on the façade, thanks to its resistance to shocks and frost characteristics. The porcelain stoneware may be full-body, coloured body or glazed

Can the porcelain stoneware be installed together with other finishes in a ventilated façade system?

The modularity of the façade system allows different materials to be installed in the same building, offering the Customer the possibility of obtaining the best aesthetics.

How are the stoneware slabs supported in a ventilated façade?

The stoneware slabs are supported by using stainless steel accessories, which hold the slab against the aluminium structure in different ways.
We can distinguish two categories of restraint – one which shows the visible hooks, thus obtaining a system defined as “visible” anchorage, and the other, on the contrary, the support fixations are concealed behind the facing slabs, to obtain an “invisible” coupling system. The aesthetic result to be achieved, together with the budget available for the works, guide the choice between the two systems, both applicable to most of the materials on the market.

Does the ventilated façade increase the cubic capacity?

According to the latest regulatory provisions intended to favour the efficiency of buildings and therefore, the installation of energy saving systems, the installation of a ventilated façade system most often does not constitute an increase in building cubic capacity.

Can the raised floor be used in seismic areas?

Yes, there are supporting structures that are suitable for raised floors to be installed in seismic areas.

How is the raised floor integrated with the systems?

All types of systems required (electrical, data, fire, hydraulic) can be installed inside the gap created above the floor. The modularity of the floor allows it to be inspected at any time and maintenance can be performed with no building works.

What kind of maintenance is required for the raised floor?

Besides a regular inspection on an annual basis, which only monitors the possible accumulation of dust or the onset of problems in the screed, the floor does not require special attention.

What kind of fire behaviour does the raised floor have?

The raised floor is classified according to standard UNI 13501-1 and 13501-2, and classifications obtained are Bfl-S1 and REI 30.

Can the raised floor be used in a renovation project?

Certainly.
The raised system allows you to operate on existing flooring, thanks to the simple installation without mortar and adhesives, allowing you to reduce the restructuring impact on existing areas.

Is the raised floor walkable?

There are specific flooring systems that allow vehicles to transit, thanks to reinforced structures.

Up to what height can a raised floor be?

Floorings can be installed up to 2 metres in height, using accessories to stabilise the system.

Can the raised floor be heated?

Certainly.
There are radiant systems with modular panels, which are placed under the surface layer, to constitute a second plenum where the low temperature radiant system is set.

Can the raised floor be used in environments such as bathrooms and/or kitchens?

It is possible to install the raised floor even in environments where the probability of falling liquids is greater, such as bathrooms and kitchens. In this case, the “sealed” joint version must be used, in which the joints between the panels are grouted with silicone fillers.

How does the raised floor behave under significant loads, such as furniture, safes, glass supporting walls, etc.

These are “normal” applications in most cases, since furniture and partitions are almost always expected. When faced with particularly demanding requirements, it is possible to reinforce both the panels and the structure to fulfil such specific cases.

Can inclined surfaces be created with the raised floor?

Inclined surfaces are possible by using specific supports and any accessories to stabilise the structure.
This is applicable to obtain inclined surfaces on flat screeds, and vice versa.

Can mobile walls be installed on the raised floor?

The raised floor can support the walls commonly used to separate the environments, where it is installed in.



Regulations and specifications for raised floors Regulations and specifications for ventilated façades

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