Exploring the Costs and Benefits of Façade Recladding in Urban Indian Cities

Exploring the Costs and Benefits of Façade Recladding in Urban Indian Cities
July 2, 2025 Sarah David
Building Envelope Consultant in Mumbai

In India’s rapidly evolving urban landscape, building aesthetics and performance are no longer optional—they’re essential. From residential towers in Mumbai to commercial hubs in Bengaluru, facade recladding has emerged as a strategic move to improve the value, safety, and energy efficiency of older buildings.

But is it worth the investment? In this blog, we break down the costs and benefits of façade recladding, especially through the lens of a building envelope consultant in Mumbai, to help developers, architects, and building owners make informed decisions.


 What is Facade Recladding?

Facade recladding is the process of replacing or upgrading the outer skin (cladding) of a building. It enhances performance, aesthetics, and safety—without altering the building’s core structure.

From replacing aging ACP sheets with fire-resistant panels to using double-glazed units or ventilated facades, recladding is often the preferred solution for older buildings showing signs of weather damage, corrosion, or inefficiency.


 Understanding the Costs of Façade Recladding

While façade recladding is a capital-intensive project, it is important to view it as a long-term investment. Here’s a breakdown of major cost components:

1. Material Costs

  • ACP, HPL, or Ceramic Panels: ₹300–₹1,500 per sq. ft.

  • Glass and Glazing Units: ₹800–₹2,500 per sq. ft.

  • Stone or Terracotta Cladding: ₹1,500–₹3,000 per sq. ft.

2. Labor & Installation

  • Skilled labor costs can range from ₹80–₹200 per sq. ft., depending on the complexity and height of the project.

3. Consultant & Design Fees

Hiring a building envelope consultant in Mumbai typically costs 3%–7% of the total project cost but is crucial for:

  • Structural safety evaluation

  • Material compatibility assessment

  • Weatherproofing and thermal performance design

  • Fire compliance and local regulation adherence

4. Scaffolding & Equipment

In high-rise buildings, scaffolding, safety nets, and lift mechanisms may add ₹100–₹300 per sq. ft.


 Key Benefits of Façade Recladding

Despite the costs, the benefits of facade recladding in Indian metros like Mumbai, Delhi, or Hyderabad are significant:

1. Improved Building Life and Structural Integrity

Recladding eliminates damaged materials and prevents seepage, corrosion, and heat buildup—extending your building’s lifespan by decades.

2. Energy Efficiency and Climate Comfort

With modern cladding systems, you can improve insulation and reduce energy bills by up to 20–30%. This is especially critical in hot and humid zones like Mumbai.

3. Fire Safety Compliance

Post-2017, fire-resistant materials have become mandatory. Recladding ensures your building meets national fire safety codes and mitigates legal risk.

4. Increased Property Value

Buildings with modern facades often attract higher rentals, resale value, and long-term occupancy—especially in commercial spaces.

5. Aesthetic and Branding Appeal

In urban centers, a sleek, well-designed facade plays a huge role in brand positioning, especially for corporate and retail clients.


 Why Work with a Building Envelope Consultant in Mumbai?

A building envelope consultant in Mumbai, such as Avante Facades, brings localized knowledge of:

  • Mumbai’s coastal climate challenges like salt corrosion and monsoons

  • Regulatory norms under the BMC, MHADA, and IGBC

  • Sustainable design practices for LEED and GRIHA certification

  • Innovative recladding materials and systems tailored for Indian metros

They provide comprehensive services—from condition surveys and design documentation to on-site supervision and performance testing.


 Case Example: Recladding an Office Tower in South Mumbai

An aging commercial building in Churchgate underwent recladding using ventilated ceramic panels. The ₹8 crore project led to:

  • 28% drop in cooling costs

  • Improved indoor air quality

  • Tenant retention increased by 42%

  • ROI achieved in less than 5 years


 Conclusion: Is Recladding Worth It?

Yes—especially in India’s urban cities, where external wear and rising energy costs are unavoidable. If done under expert guidance, façade recladding pays for itself in safety, sustainability, and style.

Whether you’re a developer, architect, or building owner, recladding is more than a renovation—it’s a future-ready upgrade.


 Want to Consult a Specialist?

Partner with Avante Facades, a trusted facade consultant in Mumbai, and give your building a new lease on life.

 Contact us now at avantefacades.com   

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