Choosing the right sandwich panels is crucial to the success of a building project. The right panels not only affect the aesthetics and functionality of a building, but also its energy efficiency and durability. In this article, we will outline the steps to help you make the best choice and the factors to consider.
Types of sandwich panels
- Panels with polyurethane core: They feature excellent thermal insulation and are often used in buildings where energy efficiency is key. Ideal for buildings requiring high insulation.
- Panels with a polystyrene core: They have lower insulation properties compared to polyurethane, but are cheaper. Mainly used in warehouse and industrial buildings.
- Mineral wool core boards: Offer good sound insulation and fire resistance. Often chosen for buildings where fire safety is a priority.
Types of external coatings
- Steel coating: Weatherproof, used in many construction projects.
- Aluminium coating: Lighter than steel and more resistant to corrosion, it is often used in buildings with aesthetic requirements.
- Plastic coating: Can be used for specialised applications such as buildings with increased chemical risks.
Definition of the Design Requirements
Purpose of the Building
- Industrial building: Requires boards with high resistance to external agents and durability, such as boards with a polyurethane or polystyrene core.
- Office building: In addition to thermal insulation, acoustic properties are also important, so consider panels with a mineral wool core.
- Cold store or warehouse: Requires particular insulation efficiency, so panels with a polyurethane core may be the best choice.
Climatic conditions
- Climate zone: In regions with extreme temperatures and heavy rainfall, it is advisable to choose boards that are resistant to such conditions. Boards with a protective coating or high moisture resistance will be a better choice.
- Sun exposure: In areas of high sunlight, boards with a UV-resistant coating can provide a longer lifespan.
Choosing the right technical parameters
Panel Thickness
- Core thickness: Influences the insulation properties of the panels. Choose a thickness that meets the energy efficiency requirements of your project. The thicker the core, the better the insulation.
- Thickness of the outer shell: It is important for durability and resistance to external factors. Thinner coatings may be sufficient in less demanding conditions, while in harsher conditions it is worth investing in thicker coatings.
Refractory properties
- Fire resistance classificationIf the building has to meet certain fire safety standards, choose boards with the appropriate fire resistance class. Boards with a mineral wool core often have higher fire resistance.
Acoustic properties
- Sound insulation: If the building requires good sound insulation, choose boards that offer adequate sound absorption properties. Boards with a mineral wool core may be more suitable for such applications.
Cost and Budget
Cost of Purchase
- Price comparison: Compare the costs of different types of sandwich panels. Please note that the price may vary depending on the core material, coating and additional features.
Installation costs
- Hire of specialists: Make sure to include installation costs in your budget. The choice of sandwich panels may affect the need to hire specialists to install them.
Choice of Manufacturer and Quality
Reputation of the Manufacturer
- Opinions and references: Choose boards from reputable manufacturers who offer high quality materials and good after-sales service. Check out reviews and testimonials from other customers.
Guarantee and Certificates
- Guarantee: Ensure that sandwich panels have an appropriate guarantee, which provides additional assurance of their durability and quality.
- Certificates: Check that the panels have certificates confirming their properties, such as fire resistance, thermal or acoustic insulation.
Summary
Selecting the right sandwich panels for a building project requires careful consideration of various factors such as panel type, building purpose, climatic conditions, technical properties, costs and manufacturer quality. Well-chosen sandwich panels can make a significant difference to the energy efficiency, aesthetics and durability of a building. A thoughtful approach to panel selection will ensure that your project is not only functional, but also long-lasting and cost-effective.
English 
Polish 
Slovak 
Russian 
Ukrainian 
German