Unitised Cladding
Off-site manufacturing of building cladding panels simplifies assembly and takes pressure off one of the most complex parts of a build.
Unitised cladding integrates multiple building elements into a single unit, including framing, insulation, wrap, windows, doors, flashings and cladding. At Symonite, we build large-scale unitised panels in a factory setting – delivering them to site, craning them into place, and installing them one floor at a time.
This method reduces the number of people and materials on site, makes sequencing easier, shortens timelines, and improves build quality. It also helps move design and consent forward faster by consolidating design and build under one experienced team, providing more certainty on timing and costs.
From design, engineering and detailing to full factory fabrication and site installation, Symonite is a trusted super-sub, delivering envelopes to the highest standard, and all work is protected by a single‑source warranty.
Early design for more control
We work closely with architects, developers and main contractors to help realise the design vision while simplifying delivery. By providing early input on feasibility, detailing and pricing, our design and engineering team help inform design options across different budgets.
Our full service covers shop drawings for consent and fabrication, project-specific engineering and compliance documentation (including PS1s), and detailed design and installation methodologies, including 3D assembly drawings and full-scale prototypes.
Simpler sequencing for reduced risk
Unitised panels arrive pre-assembled and ready to install by our specialist team. It makes the install easier to manage — fewer moving parts, less trade overlap, and less to coordinate on site.
Buildings can be enclosed earlier, giving interior trades a head start, bringing scaffolding down sooner, and allowing landscape and civil works to begin. Costs and programmes become easier to manage. In every respect, this approach reduces risk for one of the most complex parts of a build — the envelope.
Fully integrated for performance
Unitised cladding brings trades, materials and wall assemblies together in one coordinated process. As the industry moves towards design for manufacture and assembly (DfMA), leaner processes and a coordinated BIM environment, this approach integrates design, performance, compliance and buildability from the start.
We fabricate each panel off-site using digital models and CNC machinery. Our team builds to defined tolerances, with quality checks throughout production. The result is a more consistent build, fewer weather disruptions, better labour coordination and efficiency, more consistency across panels, and a better-performing façade overall.
Less waste for higher sustainability ratings
Factory assembly also means less waste. More accurate material use, better sorting of offcuts, and minimal packaging help keep the construction site cleaner, safer and easier to manage. By reducing waste and increasing recycling, off-site fabrication also contributes to stronger sustainability outcomes and higher project ratings.
Find out more
To learn more about unitised cladding, get in touch with our team of experts.
Advantages
BIM accuracy and workflow coordination
BIM enables us to take the digital design model straight into our factory, where automation produces the steel frame, joinery, glazing rails and cladding panels to the exact dimensions. The full panels are fabricated, assembled and ready precisely when they’re needed. Factory automation is more precise and higher quality, as well as enabling greater speed and cost savings.
Speed and construction efficiency
Our technology-driven OSM processes speed up every stage of the job, delivering significant time and cost efficiencies. We can better co-ordinate programmes with the overall project and the work of on-site trades. Installation requires fewer operators and is quicker. We use DfMA software to minimise material wastage at manufacture.
Safer construction environment
The Health & Safety benefits of OSM are considerable. With pre-finished panels craned in, there’s no need to have crew working at heights on scaffolding. Fewer people are needed on-site to complete the install, and there are no weather-related constraints or storage issues.