WoodWall Ductal®: A Sustainable Solution for Modern Façades

Lafarge and Fehr Group have developed WoodWall Ductal®, a versatile solution that offers a new perspective on building exteriors. (Credit: Lafarge/Fehr)

by DirectIndustry

June 28, 20243 minsUpdated on July 3, 2024

Lafarge and Fehr Group have developed WoodWall Ductal®, a versatile solution that offers a new perspective on building exteriors. This new product combines wood and concrete. It is said to enhance aesthetics, durability, and energy efficiency

WoodWall Ductal® is a hybrid wall system designed for well-ventilated façades. It seamlessly integrates two disparate materials: high-performance Ductal® concrete panels and a wooden frame structure.

In a press release, both companies say that by harnessing the strengths of both wood and concrete, this system provides a versatile and high-performing solution for building exteriors.

Strength, Durability, and Design Flexibility

The use of high-performance Ductal® concrete is said to ensure strength, increased durability, and remarkable design flexibility. The concrete panels blend with the wooden structure, creating a modern and functional aesthetic.

Architects and builders can therefore explore innovative designs while maintaining structural integrity.

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Environmental Considerations

WoodWall Ductal® is also designed to be eco-friendly and reduce waste. It incorporates bio-sourced components, including wood and wood-based insulation. Despite its high-performance concrete façade, the solution maintains a low carbon footprint.

Additionally, insulating materials within the wooden structure enhance thermal and acoustic efficiency. This reduces energy consumption and improves indoor comfort.

Prefabricated elements are manufactured off-site. This thus minimizes waste during construction and reduces noise disruptions for workers and nearby residents.

WoodWall Ductal® also aligns with current thermal and environmental standards (such as RE2020) and anticipates future requirements.

The solution is also covered by the French Scientific and Technical Center for Building’s Atex Type A certification.

Economic and Aesthetic Advantages

WoodWall Ductal® offers economic benefits due to its lightweight façade and thermal performance. By eliminating thermal bridges at the floor level, it maximizes usable space with a minimal wall thickness (as little as 20 cm).

The system supports wall heights of up to 28 meters and is suitable for seismic zones.

WoodWall Ductal® meets fire safety standards (A2 s-1,d0) and exhibits excellent impact resistance.

Architects can choose from a range of custom Ductal® concrete finishes, colors, textures, and large-format panels for various applications, including residential complexes, public buildings, and commercial spaces.