Exterior panels for facades: HPL from Fundermax
Facade panels are durable exterior cladding elements that protect buildings from the elements while offering extensive design flexibility. Fundermax provides HPL facade panels for ventilated curtain walls (VCW) that are particularly robust, fire-resistant, and easy to maintain. Depending on the project requirements, different panel types such as Max Compact Exterior or m.look Exterior can be used.
Fundermax facade panels: key facts at a glance
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Applications: ventilated curtain walls (VCW) on residential, commercial, and public buildings
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Material: high-pressure laminate (HPL), fused under high pressure from resin-saturated kraft paper
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Fire resistance: up to Class A2-s1, d0 (m.look Exterior), featuring a mineral, non-combustible core
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Properties: weather-resistant, UV-resistant, scratch-resistant, impact-resistant, and easy to clean – even graffiti can be removed effortlessly
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Design variety: over 180 finishes, as well as custom printing for individual facade designs
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Installation: on a wooden or aluminum substructure, in accordance with national requirements
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Sustainability: FSC and PEFC-certified raw materials, ISO 14001
Which panels are suitable for facade cladding on buildings?
Facade design must meet both technical and aesthetic requirements. For its facade panels, Fundermax combines high-quality materials and advanced manufacturing processes with a wide selection of finishes and surface options.
Max Compact Exterior panels in Exterior-F and Authentic-F grades meet strict quality requirements for safety, panel thickness and dimensions, as well as installation, and sustainability.
m.look Exterior panels for facades
m.look Exterior facade panels feature a fiberglass core and are highly scratch-resistant, impact-resistant, color-fast, and easy to clean. With their mineral, non-combustible core, they are classified as A2-s1, d0 according to EN 13501-1 and approved by the German Institute for Building Technology (DIBT) for use as wall and ceiling cladding. They are installed as rear-ventilated curtain wall facade elements.
Fundermax m.look Exterior panels are available in various finishes with an NT surface.
Max Compact Exterior panels for facades
Max Compact Exterior panels feature a double-cured acrylic-polyurethane coating, making these HPL facade panels especially resistant to external environmental influences such as rain and heat. In addition to meeting technical and safety requirements, the Max Compact Exterior collection reflects current design trends.
All facade panels can be ordered in various dimensions and are available in a wide range of finishes. Fundermax also offers custom printing solutions for individual facade design.
Comparing Fundermax facade panels
m.look Exterior vs. Max Compact Exterior
Fundermax offers two types of exterior panels for use on facades. Both are weather-resistant, UV-stable, scratch-resistant, impact-resistant, and easy to clean. The best choice depends on the specific requirements of the project. In practice, the decision often comes down to maximum fire protection (m.look Exterior) or maximum design freedom (Max Compact Exterior).
m.look Exterior
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Mineral, non-combustible core
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Fire class A2-s1, d0 according to EN 13501-1
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Approved by the German Institute for Building Technology (DIBT) for wall and ceiling cladding
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Particularly suitable for buildings with high fire protection requirements
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Typical areas of application: schools, hospitals, high-rises, and public buildings
Max Compact Exterior
- Double-cured acrylic-polyurethane layer
- Widest variety of finishes in the Fundermax portfolio
- Approved by the German Institute for Building Technology (DIBT) for wall and ceiling cladding
- Suitable for residential buildings, commercial buildings, and prestigious facades
- Custom printing enables individually designed facade motifs
Order samples of m.look Exterior and Max Compact Exterior panels
We are happy to provide original samples of m.look Exterior and Max Compact Exterior panels for your facade design. Samples are delivered in your selected finishes and with the corresponding surface.
Examples of Max Compact Exterior and m.look panels used for facades
You can find inspiration for custom exterior applications in our references and project brochure (PDF).
Installation information: How are Fundermax facade panels installed?
Fundermax facade panels are installed as ventilated curtain walls (VCW). Three components are essential for proper installation: the substructure, the rear ventilation layer, and the installation system used.
Important note: Please keep in mind that the dimensions of the facade panels may change slightly due to relative humidity. This must be taken into account during facade planning and installation!
The substructure forms the load-bearing framework of the ventilated curtain wall. It is typically made of aluminum, steel, or wood and is fastened directly to the exterior wall. Installation must comply with applicable national standards and the specifications provided by the substructure manufacturer.
An air gap is created between the facade panel and the exterior wall. This allows moisture to escape and helps prevent condensation. Rear ventilation is a key functional principle of the ventilated curtain wall and contributes to the longevity of the entire facade structure.
Fundermax facade panels can be fastened to the substructure either visibly or concealed. Visible fastening is carried out using rivets or screws, while concealed fastening uses an adhesive agent.
Care and lifespan of Fundermax facade panels
Fundermax facade panels are designed for long-term durability. Their double-hardened surface is resistant to fading, scratching, and warping, and does not require repainting. For cleaning, warm water and a mild, commercially available detergent are sufficient.
The facade retains its original appearance for many years, significantly reducing lifecycle costs compared to materials that require regular maintenance.
Frequently asked questions about Fundermax facade panels
From material selection and fire safety to installation: We have compiled concise answers to the most important questions about Fundermax facade panels. For project-specific advice, the Fundermax sales team will be happy to assist you personally.
HPL facade panels such as Max Compact Exterior and m.look Exterior from Fundermax are suitable for exterior facades. Both panel types are weather-resistant, UV-stable, and designed for use in ventilated curtain walls (VCW).
Key factors include weather resistance, fire class, UV stability, and the quality of the surface coating. Fundermax recommends using only tested facade panels with proven classification according to EN 13501-1 and approval for ventilated curtain walls. The choice of finish and the availability of installation accessories should also be considered during planning.
The recommended panel thickness depends on the application, installation method, and wind load zone. Fundermax facade panels are available in various thicknesses to meet different project requirements.
Yes. m.look Exterior panels meet fire class A2-s1, d0 according to EN 13501-1 and are therefore suitable for buildings with high fire safety requirements. Max Compact Exterior panels meet fire class B-s2, d0.
The cost depends on the panel type, thickness, format, finish, and installation requirements. Special finishes and custom prints can also affect the price. For a project-specific quote, we recommend contacting the Fundermax sales team.
Fundermax is the global market leader in compact laminates, combining more than 130 years of experience with over 180 finish options and custom printing possibilities. The sample service received the Architects’ Darling Award Gold 2023 and 2024. In addition, Fundermax offers sustainable production (FSC/PEFC, Green Deal) and a strong network of national and international contacts.
