A facade is a building’s first defence against the weather and the face it shows the street. Choosing facade cladding means weighing insulation, durability, maintenance and budget together. This guide compares the four most common options.
Comparison of facade systems
| System | Appearance | Insulation | Maintenance | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Insulation + render/paint | Flat or textured | High (insulation layer included) | Periodic repainting | Medium |
| Natural stone | Prestigious, natural | Needs separate insulation | Low | High |
| Composite panel | Modern, metallic | Needs separate insulation | Low | Medium–high |
| Exterior paint | Flat | None | Frequent repainting | Low |
Wherever insulation is wanted, external wall insulation is the base layer; stone and composite are applied over it or as a ventilated system.
Render and paint over insulation
The most common system. It consists of insulation board, mesh, adhesive render and a top coat of mineral plaster or exterior paint. It solves thermal performance and appearance in one system. For details see our article on external and waterproof insulation.
Pros: insulation and finish combined, wide range of colours and textures. Cons: less impact-resistant than stone; repainting is needed over the years.
Natural stone cladding
Travertine, basalt and andesite are used on ground floors, columns, feature walls or entire facades. Because of the weight, the load-bearing structure and the fixing or mechanical anchoring detail must be planned correctly.
Pros: long life, low maintenance, strong appearance. Cons: weight, demanding workmanship, high cost.
Composite panels
Aluminium composite panels are screwed to a supporting sub-frame. Used as a ventilated facade together with insulation, they provide both thermal performance and moisture control.
Pros: modern look, fast installation, flat clean surface. Cons: panels with an appropriate fire classification must be selected; detailing errors let water in.
Exterior paint
The quickest and most economical way to refresh an existing surface — but it provides no insulation. Water-repellent, UV-resistant products should be chosen. If surface preparation (crack repair, primer) is skipped, flaking begins quickly.
The stages of a facade renovation
- Survey: condition of the existing facade, cracks and damp
- System selection and quotation
- Scaffolding and safety measures
- Surface preparation and repair
- Insulation and cladding application
- Joint, movement joint and waterproofing details
- Top coat, inspection and scaffold removal
What determines the cost?
Facade area, the chosen system, insulation thickness, scaffolding duration, building height and how much repair the existing surface needs.
Demgirişim carries out facade cladding and insulation work from scaffolding to final inspection with one team, and manages coordination with building management on apartment projects.
Frequently asked questions
Cladding or external insulation?
They are different layers. External insulation provides thermal performance; cladding is the visible protective layer. Render, paint or a suitable stone or composite system can be applied over insulation.
How is a facade renovation decided in an apartment building?
Because it is a communal area, a decision must be taken at the owners' meeting. Once the decision and budget plan are agreed, the survey and quotation process begins.
Which season suits facade work?
Applications involving adhesive, render and paint should avoid frost and extreme heat; spring and autumn are ideal. Dry cladding systems can be installed over a wider window.
The initial consultation and written quote for Facade Cladding are free within Istanbul. Scope, duration and cost are confirmed after the consultation.