AFC has been a pioneer in the high-density cladding industry for over 35 years, growing into one of the leading suppliers of cladding panels for rainscreen applications. The company, originally founded as American Fiber Cement Corporation, has evolved significantly over the years, expanding its product lines beyond fiber cement to meet the growing and diverse demands of modern construction.
AFC was established with a clear mission: to provide energy-efficient, sustainable, modern, and aesthetically pleasing cladding systems. This commitment to innovation and sustainability has been at the core of its operations since its inception. Recently, the company launched an exciting new product line featuring terracotta planks called TerraSlat, making this traditionally expensive material more accessible and affordable for a wide range of projects.
Ryan Hunter, Vice President of Sales at AFC, highlighted the significance of this new offering: “You don’t traditionally see terracotta on small commercial or other budget-conscious projects. What we’ve done with our terracotta plank, TerraSlat, is simplify the format, narrow the color selection, and bring it to a price point where it can be used on projects of any size or scope.”
The terracotta planks are stocked in AFC warehouses and are available for immediate delivery. Ryan explained: “We could deliver TerraSlat to a project next week. Because they’re planks, there’s less installation and design complexity. They’re installed in full format and cut to fit the building, making the process quick and efficient.”
The manufacturing of these planks is handled by Tonality®, a German company renowned for using 100% Westerwald clay. This clay is considered the purest and finest in the world. While competitors may incorporate Westerwald clay into their products, Tonality®’s exclusive use of it sets their product apart. Ryan emphasized: “The purity and quality of the clay allow for a unique single-layer, single-skin panel that meets technical standards without the need for a double-layer honeycomb system.”
This innovation provides new possibilities for architects and building owners, enabling them to use terracotta in projects where it was previously unaffordable. Ryan noted: “We believe this will allow terracotta to be embraced by a broader market.”
AFC’s commitment to exploring new opportunities extends beyond fiber cement. The company’s rebranding to AFC reflects this diversification. Ryan described the shift: “We’ve evolved from being just about fiber cement to offering a broader range of rainscreen applications.”
“We’ve evolved from being just about fiber cement to offering a broader range of rainscreen applications.”
Despite its evolution, AFC continues to offer fiber cement products, primarily used in commercial construction projects such as small medical offices and multifamily buildings. Schools, however, remain the company’s specialty. Ryan stated: “We have a school project – elementary, middle, or high school – in nearly every state in the U.S.”
AFC’s reputation as a market leader stems from its extensive experience, product availability, and comprehensive support. Ryan highlighted the company’s approach: “We assist from conception to completion, providing design guidance, technical support, shop drawings, and installation assistance.”
AFC’s legacy in the industry is impressive. Ryan explained: “We’re the oldest, largest, and most established company in the United States selling high-density fiber cement. We’ve played a significant role in introducing the rainscreen system to the U.S. architectural market about 15 years ago.”
The company partners with Swisspearl, a leading manufacturer of high-quality fiber cement panels, to serve as their North American distributor. Ryan added: “Swisspearl is recognized as the top fiber cement panel manufacturer worldwide. Through our partnership, we offer both premium and affordable options to our customers.”
In addition to Swisspearl products, AFC offers its own branded fiber cement panels, providing a variety of colors, textures, and finishes to meet different budgetary needs. The company’s commitment to accessibility is further demonstrated by its strategic import and warehousing operations on both the East and West Coasts. This allows AFC to significantly reduce lead times, delivering products in as little as three to four weeks compared to the usual three to four months for European imports.
AFC’s service extends throughout the U.S. and Canada, with local representatives in every state and province. These reps provide architectural assistance, installation support, and sales guidance. The company’s in-house technical team includes engineers who address specifications and engineering details, ensuring every project runs smoothly from start to finish.
The company also boasts a state-of-the-art fabrication facility equipped with Italian fiber cement panel saws. These facilities enable AFC to customize panels to fit specific project requirements, delivering pre-cut and pre-drilled panels directly to job sites. This not only enhances efficiency but also reduces costs for customers.
AFC has been a trailblazer in promoting the principle of the open-joint rainscreen system. Unlike traditional methods that aim to prevent moisture infiltration, AFC’s system allows for controlled airflow and moisture management, enhancing the building’s energy efficiency and durability. Ryan explained: “We’ve embraced building science to create better, longer-lasting structures that reduce lifetime costs for owners.”
The company’s innovative approach has led to its involvement in numerous high-profile projects, including over 20 schools in New Mexico, Clark University, the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Agro Culture Liquid Fertilizers World Headquarters. AFC is also currently working on a major project at the University of Texas.
Looking ahead, Ryan is optimistic about the future: “We see architects and building owners increasingly embracing the rainscreen concept. Our focus remains on innovation, sustainability, and delivering value to our clients.”
For AFC, the journey over the past 35 years has been marked by growth, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. As the company continues to evolve, its dedication to providing top-quality cladding solutions remains steadfast, ensuring its position as a leader in the industry for years to come.
