In researching some of the latest tile and stone construction methods, I recently met with representatives from Marazzi, a large Italian manufacturer of porcelain tile. Through its U.S. operation, Marazzi USA, the company supplies everything from large-format tiles to glass mosaics to distributors across the country. Of note, the company has begun a campaign to market its ventilated tile wall system -- which has gained a measure of popularity overseas -- here in the U.S.
While the Green Movement is rapidly gaining speed in the U.S., it is surprising to me that ventilated facade systems aren't an obvious choice for exterior facades. This system has been employed in architecture for many years in Europe and other parts of the world. In addition to creating a clean contemporary look, the ventilated facade also offers benefits such as savings on energy usage, better sound insulation and thermal stability, as the ventilated cavity creates a "chimney effect" that removes excess radiant heat from a building while insulation prevents heat loss from within a building, according to the Italian tile manufacturer.