Cladding Remediation and Retrofitting: A Structural Perspective

Grenfell, London

Across the UK - particularly in urban centres like London, Manchester, and Birmingham - the cladding crisis continues to reshape the built environment. Following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, over 11,000 buildings above 11 metres have been identified as potentially requiring cladding remediation. While fire safety remains the focus, the structural engineering required to deliver safe, viable retrofits is just as critical - yet often overlooked.

Cladding remediation is never a straightforward façade swap. It’s a structural intervention that demands deep technical understanding of how modern systems interact with existing building frames. Structural insight ensures new cladding performs safely without compromising the integrity of the original structure.

Retrofitting Façades: Engineering Beyond Appearance

Modern cladding systems often differ in weight, thickness, and structural demand from the ones they replace. Each upgrade calls for a detailed assessment of whether the existing structure can support the change.

That means:

• Conducting load assessments to confirm structural capacity.

• Designing or upgrading fixing systems to meet wind load and stability standards.

• Accounting for thermal movement, water ingress, and material compatibility - especially in older buildings.

Existing Buildings, Complex Challenges

Façade retrofits often take place on occupied, high-rise buildings where minimising disruption is essential. Structural engineers must navigate challenges specific to live environments.

This includes:

• Designing temporary works for safe removal and replacement at height.

• Managing vibration and movement to prevent interior damage.

• Sequencing installations to maintain safe access for residents and workers.

In cities like London or Leeds, factors such as crane positioning, pedestrian safety, and restricted site access add further layers of complexity.

Structural Assurance for Safe Delivery

While fire engineers and building control define regulatory boundaries, structural engineering supports every step of retrofit delivery. Ensuring compliance, safety, and long-term durability underpins every project.

That includes:

• Securely anchoring new cladding to the structure.

• Verifying tolerances under wind load and movement.

• Mapping and validating load paths for integrity and compliance.

• Providing clear documentation for warranties and approvals.

This level of due diligence gives clients, residents, and insurers the confidence to move forward.

Looking Ahead

Thousands of buildings across England are still awaiting retrofit. The demand for pragmatic, qualified structural input continues to grow - particularly where safety, cost-efficiency, and live environments intersect.

JMS Engineers brings technical clarity and hands-on experience to façade remediation. Whether supporting a recladding scheme at height, advising on load paths and fixings, or enabling retrofit delivery across complex sites, the focus remains the same: helping you build with safety, confidence, and compliance in mind.

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JMS Engineers are award-winning Consulting Structural & Civil Engineers with over 25 years experience in providing engineering solutions across residential, commercial and industrial projects.

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