An Introduction
Telling Architectural offer a versatile approach to the design and management of cladding along with other specialist forms of construction whether these are lightweight steel walling, pre fabrication, stone, natural terracotta or zinc and copper. Our particular strength lies in our ability to accept single source design responsibility on behalf of a client to include curtain walling, glazing, multi discipline cladding systems and ancillary works. In-house design staff in engineering and architecture lessen the load upon the consultant or design contractor in interfacing and programming responsibilitiesas well as the management of the subcontractor where this is of interest.
Strucutural Cladding & Remodelling
The demands of the industry for creative architecture, thermal performance, speed and versatility, increasingly lead to substantially different forms of construction. Telling have been at the forefront of the introduction of lightweight steel walling systems for new building and remodeling.
Performance Criteria
Traditional cavity construction is gradually being replaced by more fast track forms of construction to achieve improved energy efficiency, flexibility of design and architectural impact. There is no compromise to the performance criteria in terms of fire, acoustics, weathering or aesthetics.
Weight
Weight is an important factor. The systems will generally be less that 80kg/m2 with a large proportion of this required to provide the acoustic mass.
Speed and Versatility
Lightweight steel walling enables the fitting out of buildings to be progressed much earlier as the structure can be made watertight within days of the frame construction. The walling can be used in traditional cavity construction with the steel frame acting a restraint system for stone or brick. By this process the external façade can be removed from the programme critical path.
Cost
There remains the perception that a single skin of blockwork is cheaper than lightweight steel walling, but when speed, scaffolding, hoisting, weather and pressures upon trade skills are calculated, there is little difference.
Re-modelling
For re-modelling of buildings, to renew or replace the previous windows or structural glazing, the lightweight steel walling provides a robust substrate for insulated overcladding. System built structures from the 60’s and 70’s are being extensively refurbished and given an extended fifty years of life. Even structures built from high alumina cement can be refurbished confidently in the knowledge that degradation is minimum upon a structure that will be warm and dry for the remainder of its days.
Loads and Fixings
Advancements in the fixings industry have enabled the systems too be designed to withstand the highest of wind loads and to provide support to interfacing elements of glazing and cladding.
Eisenberg Argeton Terracotta
An innovative and cost effective cladding, based on the proven principle of the ventilated cavity, using suspended clay tiles in a rainscreen.
Appearance
Manufactured under the ‘Argeton’ process, the natural beauty and symmetry of the façade is created by contrasting the smooth faced tile with the precise joint. Whether as the main theme cladding or as a feature, the clean lines and character of the Eisenberg Terracotta tile can be effectively designed alongside the cladding components of glazing, curtain walling and stucco. Eisenberg is manufactured in seven standard colours – natural red, terracotta, sand, brown, grey, platinum and sahara yellow. Tiles are smooth faced.
Insulated Render
The development of the concept of external insulation has been slow in comparison to European countries where the process has been used for decades in both new and refurbishment. The tradition of cavity construction is slowly being recognized with single skin blockwork and insulation over the whole structure becoming increasingly popular. Damage caused by thermal movement, concrete decay or deterioration of the external leaf due to cavity filling is eradicated. Insulated cladding is the process for the 21st century to provide comfortable, energy efficient and long life structures.
Composition and Manufacture
Much of the technology emanates from Germany with acrylics utilsed to manufacture flexible, decorative, thin coat systems. The early systems of cementitous pebbledash and high build coatings have been replaced. A range of textures, profiles and colour combinations permit expansion joint free applications, guaranteed against cracking. Insulants vary according to the ‘U’ values sought from expanded polystyrenes and closed cell foams to mineral fibres. Systems vary from the ultra light at 12kg/m2 to 60kg/m2 for structural applications.
Thermal Properties and Fire
All systems are certified to be Class O surface spread of flame. Firebreaks at every floor above the first are incorporated on buildings of three storeys and over to comply with building regulations, Thermal performance varies from 0.45 WM2/K to as low as 0.25 WM2/K.

Telling Architectural Terracotta
UK Head Office
Primrose Avenue
Fordhouse
Wolverhampton
West Midlands
WV10 8AW

Tel: 01902 789777
Fax: 01902 398777
Email: sales@telling.co.uk