Ventilated Façade or External Thermal Insulation System (SATE): Advantages of SATE

Choosing between a ventilated façade and SATE (ETICS in English) is crucial in building construction. Both solutions offer benefits, but ETICS has gained prominence in recent years due to its numerous advantages in energy efficiency, sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and ease of installation. In this article, we will delve into what each system entails and explain why SATE is regarded as the more favourable option. 

What is a Ventilated Façade?

A ventilated façade is a construction system that employs multiple exterior layers, creating an air cavity between the cladding and the building’s wall. This system allows for air circulation, promoting natural ventilation.

Ventilated façades can incorporate insulating materials. Furthermore, the design of this system is based on the chimney effect principle: warm air rises and is replaced by fresh air. This ensures additional protection against moisture, contributing to the structure’s increased durability.

Ventilated Façade or SATE: The Benefits of SATE

While both systems have their characteristics and advantages, SATE (External Thermal Insulation System) is increasingly popular due to its benefits.

Installation Time

One of the primary advantages of the SATE system is the time required for its installation. Compared to a ventilated façade, SATE is usually quicker. This is because the mechanical fixing system allows for the insulation material to be placed directly onto the existing façade, eliminating the need for a metal substructure, as is the case with ventilated façades.

This speed of installation reduces the overall project timeline, resulting in lower labour costs and, consequently, significant savings in the project budget.

Learn more about PROPAM® THERM COMFORT BM System.

The simplicity

From a construction standpoint, SATE offers a simplicity that makes it attractive to many construction professionals. The lack of a need for a metal substructure reduces the complexity of the process and the amount of materials required. This not only simplifies the work but also minimises the risk of errors during installation, reducing the need for precise measurements and tolerances required by a ventilated façade.

Moreover, the fact that the insulation material is applied directly to the façade allows for greater flexibility in design, as there are no additional components that could limit the building’s aesthetics. This simplicity also translates into easier and less expensive long-term maintenance, offering a good value for money.

Material Economy

SATE allows for significant material economy, a crucial aspect in today’s context of sustainability and resource optimisation. By requiring fewer components than a ventilated façade, it optimises resource use and minimises waste. The direct application of the insulation material reduces the amount of additional material needed, thereby lowering the total project cost.

Furthermore, the efficiency of the SATE system in thermal insulation results in lower energy consumption in the long run.

Construction Economy

The construction economy is a key factor to consider when choosing between a ventilated façade system and SATE. The SATE system stands out for its ability to provide efficient insulation, resulting in significant energy savings.

The installation of SATE prevents heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer by eliminating thermal bridges, which enhances indoor comfort and reduces reliance on heating and cooling systems.

Learn more about the PROPAM® Aisterm SILENCE system 

Periodic Maintenance

In the case of SATE, maintenance is usually less frequent and less costly than with a ventilated façade. This is because, with the insulation material protected by a cladding layer, exposure to multiple auxiliary elements is minimised, reducing the risk of damage.

Practically speaking, this means that building owners who opt for SATE can enjoy greater peace of mind regarding the maintenance and preservation of their façades.

Aesthetic Level

One aspect that is often overlooked when deciding between a ventilated façade and SATE is the aesthetic level. Both systems offer a wide range of materials and finishes, but SATE allows for greater integration and continuity with the existing architecture.

The ability to choose from various finishes for the façade cladding means that owners can personalise the appearance of their buildings according to their aesthetic preferences. This can include everything from smooth, modern finishes to more traditional textures, offering a variety of design options. 

One of the finish options is ceramic cladding, such as the PROPAM® THERM CERAM BM system.

Which to Choose: Ventilated Façade or SATE?

The choice between a ventilated façade and a SATE system will depend on the specific needs of the project, the budget, and the objectives. It is important to highlight that both systems have their advantages, but SATE excels in terms of installation speed, simplicity, material economy, minimising loads on the envelope, and easier periodic maintenance.

Opting for an insulation system like SATE can be a smart investment, not only economically but also environmentally. The energy efficiency it provides benefits owners through savings on energy bills and contributes to the sustainability of the environment.

In a world where sustainability and energy efficiency are becoming increasingly essential, SATE emerges as a viable and attractive option for those looking to enhance the energy performance of their buildings while maintaining aesthetics and functionality.

It is essential to make the decision considering the specific needs of the project, but, as we have seen in this article, it is clear that SATE offers a range of advantages that make it worthy of consideration.Would you like personalised advice for your project? Do not hesitate to consult our experts.