Choosing paint systems based on environmental risk

We’re aware of the impact a business like ours has on the environment, so we’re always looking to improve our footprint.

Minimising waste, reducing toxic emissions and increasing recycling are just some of the ways we’re dedicated to making positive environmental changes as a company. To make the right decisions and support our ongoing sustainable processes, increased knowledge and relevant training is essential.

Our commitment to reducing our environmental impact is supported by an understanding of the paint systems best suited to your building based on its location. The Cladding Coatings team is trained to ISO 12944 standard, which certifies on the assessment of the environment for paints and wall coverings.

Naturally, the most thorough and tailor-made assessment comes from visiting your building to conduct a site survey. Yet, with our knowledge, our team can begin with an idea of the most suitable paint system for your property before we even step foot on site.

What is ISO 12944 classification, and why does it matter to you?

ISO 12944 classification is used to determine the level of environmental risk. The levels begin with C1 (a building in a neutral atmosphere) and rise to C5M (a building exposed to a great deal of salt damage). These environments have been decided following a number of experiments that measured the effects of metal loss on uncoated steel.

For us at Cladding Coatings, these classifications are essential knowledge. Not only do they expand our understanding of environmental concerns, classifying a building this way helps us determine the best paint system to use to protect your property.

How are the environments classified, and where does your building fit?

ISO 12944 classification is based on salinity measures: how rapidly a building’s steel is likely to corrode based on its external surroundings. Levels start low: a well-insulated, suitably heated and modern property in an inland rural location is typically a C1 (low salinity). When a property is located in industrial and/or coastal locations, with heavy pollution and high humidity, the level reaches C5 (high salinity). C5 is split into industrial and marine categorisations, so they can be treated suitably with the right paint systems.

• C1: heated buildings in a clean atmosphere i.e. schools
• C2: unheated buildings with likely condensation build-up, in a rural area i.e. sports halls
• C3: inshore buildings used as production bases in an industrial/urban setting i.e breweries
• C4: inshore buildings in industrial areas, yet with medium salinity i.e. swimming pools
• C5I: buildings in industrial areas with high humidity in an aggressive atmosphere i.e. factories
• C5M: buildings in inshore or offshore areas with high salinity i.e. coastal marine properties.

At Cladding Coatings, we are aware of the environmental impact of our travel, machinery use and varied systems. As such, we’re committed to minimising the effects of our work on the environment. Adherence to ISO 12944 classification is a good example of our environmental awareness. You can also find further details in our company environmental policy.

Keen to know which paint or wall covering is right for your property’s location? Ask our team to book in your no-obligation site visit for a chat. With a little knowledge of where your building’s based, we can arrive prepared with thoughts, process suggestions and paint system recommendations to discuss as we carry out your free site survey.