Solid cladding
Solid aluminium panels are coordinated with joints, cavities, weather layers, subframes and the backing wall as part of the overall envelope strategy.
Decision Centre / Global
Solid cladding or open screen façade?
A rainscreen-style cladding layer and an open architectural screen can look similar from a distance but perform different jobs in the building envelope.
Global / overseas search owner Manual project review Exact-system evidence only
Direct answer
The short version.
Use solid cladding when the outer panel system forms part of a coordinated wall-envelope and rainscreen strategy. Use an open screen when ventilation, solar control, privacy, service concealment or visual identity are the primary functions and a separate backing wall or protected zone handles the building envelope.
Project decision
What matters before product selection.
Use these points to structure the first project conversation. Final suitability stays tied to the actual site, selected system and local project team.
Open screens
Perforated panels, mesh, expanded metal, fins and laser-cut systems may sit outside a separate weather envelope to provide screening, ventilation or identity.
Do not confuse appearance with envelope role
The local façade designer must resolve moisture, fire, thermal, seismic and structural requirements for the complete wall build-up.
Comparison matrix
Solid Cladding vs Screen Façade — project comparison
Use this as an early project-screening matrix. Final suitability depends on the exact system, site, configuration and project requirements.
| Factor | Solid cladding | Open screen façade |
|---|---|---|
| Primary role | Envelope / rainscreen layer | Screening / shade / ventilation / identity |
| Open area | Low / controlled joints | Moderate to high |
| Backing wall | Part of coordinated wall build-up | Usually separate weather envelope needed |
| Ventilation through outer layer | Limited / cavity based | High potential |
| Typical systems | Aluminium panels / honeycomb / solid skins | Perforated / mesh / fins / laser-cut |
Project brief
Information worth collecting before quotation.
01Envelope role
02Backing wall
03Moisture strategy
04Fire requirements
05Open area
06Wind / seismic
07Subframe
08Maintenance access
Frequently asked
Answers without oversimplifying the project.
Is one option always the right choice?
No. The useful choice depends on the project outcome, site conditions, scale, local work, operating expectations, maintenance and required technical evidence.
Does Apollo calculate a universal online price from this comparison?
No. Apollo uses a manual project-brief and quotation process so product family, quantity, destination, freight, configuration and project interfaces are reviewed before pricing.
Who handles local design, approvals and installation?
Apollo is primarily supply-only. Local engineering, approvals, foundations, services, installation and other site work remain with the appointed local project team unless a written scope states otherwise.
Next step
Turn the research into a real project brief.
Send the site, dimensions, intended use, quantities and known local requirements. Apollo will review the relevant product pathway and keep local engineering, approvals and site-work responsibilities explicit.