Understanding Rainscreen Systems with Sotech

Building Safer, Smarter Facades with Sotech

AS THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR CONTINUES TO RESPOND TO NEW SAFETY REGULATIONS, SUSTAINABILITY TARGETS AND ARCHITECTURAL AMBITIONS, RAINSCREEN CLADDING HAS BECOME A CRUCIAL PART OF MODERN FACADE DESIGN.

At Sotech, we specialise in the manufacturing of metal and brick slip rainscreen facade solutions, helping clients deliver facades that combine performance, compliance and long-term durability. But what exactly is a rainscreen system? – and how do our systems support safer, smarter building design?

WHAT IS A RAINSCREEN SYSTEM?

A rainscreen system involves cladding panels fixed to a structural subframe, creating a ventilated cavity between the outer facade and the backing wall. This cavity is essential: it allows moisture that penetrates the cladding to drain or evaporate, reducing the risk of water ingress, rot and insulation failure.

In addition to weather protection, rainscreen systems are designed to:

Manage wind load.
Allow for thermal expansion and movement.
Integrate around windows, doors and complex junctions.
Enhance the thermal and acoustic performance of a building.

INTRODUCTING THE OPTIMA RANGE

Our Optima range includes a selection of systems to suit various project needs – from minimalist aluminium facades to traditional brick-effect finishes.

Optima FC+ – Sotech’s secret-fix flat panel system offering a smooth, uninterrupted finish.
Optima TFC+ – Through-fix cassette system designed for strength, versatility and economical.
Optima Edge – Sotech’s premium flat panel system with discreet fixings and crisp visual lines.
Optima BrickTech – Real clay brick slips mounted on a supporting carrier for a traditional aesthetic with a modern twist.
Optima FlatFix – Flat planel system using colour-match fixings are an uninterrupted facade face.
Optima Meadow – Sotech’s unique and innovative living wall rainscreen solution.
Optima XTR Contour – Lightweight, versatile and customisable extrusions.
Optima Interlock Plank – Interlocking planks providing sleek, modern facades with recessed or hairline joints.
Optima Clip Plank – Uninterrupted plank facade thanks to concealed brackets on the returns.
Optima Shingles – Sotech’s offering of the traditional building material.

Each facade solution is developed with the installer, specifier and end user in mind – ensuring performance in both appearance and function.

FIRE SAFETY AND TESTING

Fire safety remains one of the most important considerations in cladding design, particularly for high-rise and residential buildings.

Several systems within the Optima range have been fire tested to BS 8414-2 and assessed in accordance with BR135, meaning they meet the criteria for use on relevant buildings under UK regulations. Systems are manufactured from non-combustible materials (A1 or A2-s1,d0) and installed with mechanical fixings.

While not all systems in the range carry the same level of fire testing, we provide full transparency around available test data and can offer technical support to help select the most appropriate system for your project.

We also advise on compliance with regulations such as

Approved Document B (England & Wales)
Scottish Building Standards
The Building Safety Act 2022

DESIGNED, MANUFACTURED AND SUPPORTED IN THE UK

All Sotech panels are manufactured at our UK facility using precision machinery and robust quality controls. We combine advanced machinery with in-house expertise to deliver precision-formed facade rainscreen. From fully augmented panel bender, folding, cutting and routing to bespoke detailing and curved profiles, every panel is manufactured with millimetre-perfect accuracy and exceptional finish.

Our experienced team supported projects from design through to installation, offering:

Facade detailing advice.
Wind load and bracket calculations.
Sample panels and mock-ups.
Site support and installation guidance.

BOOK A TOUR OR CPD

If you’d like to learn more about how our systems are made and tested, we offer:

Factory tours at our North East manufacturing plant.
CPD sessions – available online, in person at your office, or at Sotech’s HQ.
One-to-one technical advice to support early-stage specification.

To book a tour or speak to the team, visit sotech-optima.co.uk or contact us today.