Overview

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What is it?

High density fibre cement, in the original formulation called Eternit is not new to Canada. However it is relatively unknown verses traditional materials of brick, concrete, stucco, metal panels in Canada. In Europe Eternit is very well known and used as a 'traditional' product. This provides a unique opportunity for Architects and Owners to have a building with something that is perceived to be new, but in fact is highly proven through decades of use in Europe. In addition to other benefits: simplicity, strength, performance, and choice, Eternit provides the design freedom for Architects to present their creative spirit better than many other materials.

Engineered Assemblies has represented several of the products available. We can explain the differences. EA represents the Eternit from the largest provider of fibre cement in Europe. It is also knows as Europanel. It is a panel made of fibre, cement, and water - a very natural manufactured building material. It comes in sheets in either 8mm or 12mm thicknesses. Its dimensions are approximately 1200mmX2500mm and 3000mm - each type is slightly larger so see technical information. It is very simply, front fastened or rear-hung as an exterior façade. It has been used for decades as part of a girt assembly that creates a rear-ventilated, pressure equalized rainscreen façade. Fibre Cement is not concrete. The engineering has been proven to allow an 8mm panel to take the mistreatment nature is ready to offer.

The product names are:

Natura - More than 30 colours, coated with a translucent finish that shows the cementious aesthetic. Many are colour through. There is no directional aspect to Natura, so you can mix up the panels. All panels in a batch will be the same. 8mm and 12mm thick.

Natura Pro - same as Natura, most colours being available, with a graffiti coating. The same translucent finish comes through.

Eter-color -  9 through colour, natural look, uncoated sanded finish product. Each panel will present slightly differently, with a possibility of a small number of white spots. The finish is sanded the long way of the panel, so it is directional. 8mm only.
Most economical choice.

Pictura and Textura - Opaque coated product for bright colours on a fibre cement core. Textura is sand blasted with an opaque coating. Excellent for an accent in a fibre cement design. 8mm and 12mm thick.

Eternit is suitable for non-combustible construction in all of Canada. Contact Engineered Assemblies for the Can ULC S 135 test information. Not all Eternit products available in Canada have earned this right.

The Eternit range is composed of the following products: 

NATURA: noble stone-like		NATURA PRO: surface protected
PICTURA: Enhanced, smooth		TEXTURA: Textured homogeneous
ETER-COLOR: brushed concrete

What do I do now?

Eternit is good for large, medium and small buildings. It goes on walls, soffits and interiors. Think of the kind of look you are trying to achieve. Panels can be horizontal or vertical or cut to any size you wish. For sustainability, we recommend cutting to create as little waste as possible. Colours can be matched as you see fit. Fasteners can be colour matched, stainless steel or hidden.

Engineered Assemblies will work with you to detail the building.

For a typical commercial rainscreen rendering click here.

Joints above below and between panels are left open. Joints between panels can have trims for aesthetics. Wood, steel or aluminum girts are used. An EPDM liner is installed on the girts to create a good platform for expansion and contraction.

On commercial jobs the typical approach is to design the architectural view and details needed for tendering. Upon award EA provides stamped shop drawings and construction drawings so the installer can get to work. EA project manages the job to fulfill the needs of the installation company.

On residential jobs the typical approach is to get the look you want, and work with the builder to install to meet those needs. EA often delivers full panels, fasteners, breathable membranes and EPDM liner in bulk.