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Facade Cladding.

Product Suggested: PSB® Supreme

Why PSB® Supreme

  • Superior Moisture Resistance Performance: PSB® Supreme exhibits excellent moisture resistance, with a maximum thickness swelling of 15%. PSB® Supreme, when coated properly, results in a thickness swelling of less than 5%. Manufactured locally in the UAE and available immediately.
  • High Modulus of Elasticity and Rupture Strength: PSB® Supreme demonstrates high performance in terms of modulus of elasticity, measuring 3,500 Newtons per square millimeter (N/mm²), and modulus of rupture, ranging from 16 to 22 Newtons per square millimeter (N/mm²).
  • Enhanced Screw Withdrawal Strength and Reusability: PSB® Supreme provides exceptional screw hold capacity compared to other solutions, with edge hold at 1,350 Newtons (N) and face hold at 1,650 Newtons (N). PSB® Supreme’s mechanical properties allow for repeated use of the same hole without any loss in performance.

Specifications

Modulus of rupture 16 – 22 N/mm2
Modulus of elasticity 3,500 N/mm2
Internal Bonding 0.29 – 0.34 N/mm2
Thickness Swelling 5% - 15%
Width 1,200 – 1,250 mm
Length 1,830 – 3,048 mm
Thickness 9 – 44 mm

Customizable Finishes.

Raw Board

A wide range of uncoated boards, used as a core material, offering flexibility for customization and finishing.

Sanded Board

A Smooth, sanded surface board, ideal for interior fit-outs and paneling, ensuring enhanced finish quality and easy customization.

Premium Surface (Putty) Finishing

A flawless, smooth-surfaced board achieved with putty, ideal for high-quality paint applications and achieving a polished, refined look.

Premium Plus Surface (Coated) Finishing

A flawless, smooth-surfaced board achieved with putty, ideal for high-quality paint applications and achieving a polished, refined look.

Veneer Finishing

A decorative-finished board using thin layers of real material, offering a natural look, durability, and customization options.

Best Practices.

To ensure optimal performance in humid conditions, it is recommended to apply a coating to the boards. This will enhance their durability and resilience against moisture, thereby maintaining their reliability in load-bearing applications.

When resizing the boards (cutting to different or smaller dimensions), it is essential to coat the newly exposed edges.

For components being fastened, such as beams, rafters, joists, and trusses, pre-drilling is essential. The diameter of the pre-drilled hole should be smaller than the screw diameter to ensure effective engagement of the screw threads.

During transportation and storage, it is important to protect the PSB® boards from direct exposure to water droplets and precipitation on their edges and surfaces. Ensure that adequate protective covers are provided to maintain their integrity.

For fastening, it is recommended to use screws, nails, or staples with a length at least 2.5 times the thickness of the board, but not less than 50-75 mm. Fastening should be carried out at intervals of 150-300 mm on intermediate supports (depending on roof pitch), 150 mm along board joints, and 100 mm along roof edges.

It is advised not to install decorative tiles or wallpaper directly on PSB® Supreme, nor should plaster work be applied to its surface.

FAQs.

Facade cladding materials improve energy efficiency by enhancing thermal insulation and reflecting solar radiation, reducing reliance on air conditioning systems. In hot climates like the GCC, this can significantly lower energy costs while improving occupant comfort. For example, DesertBoard’s Palm Strand Board (PSB®) provides excellent thermal performance as well as zero-formaldehyde emissions, supporting healthier interiors. Unlike conventional options, it is carbon-negative and locally manufactured in Abu Dhabi, helping developers achieve both energy savings and sustainability goals in facade projects.

The lifespan of facade cladding depends on material choice, installation quality, and climate exposure. Conventional timber may last 10–15 years in tough climates, while engineered solutions like DesertBoard PSB® can meet the highest standards. Designed for GCC conditions, DesertBoard resists pests, humidity, and UV stress when properly finished. This durability reduces the need for frequent replacements and lowers lifecycle costs. Developers benefit from a cladding system that balances long-term performance with the environmental responsibility of carbon-negative, palm frond–based production.

Facade cladding shapes both the visual appeal and technical performance of a building. From rainscreen systems that improve ventilation to decorative finishes that define architectural style, the facade impacts energy use and occupant comfort. DesertBoard PSB® offers design flexibility through laminates, veneers, and CNC finishes, while also contributing to sustainability. By integrating DesertBoard into facade design, architects achieve striking aesthetics backed by eco-friendly performance, ensuring buildings are both beautiful and environmentally responsible.

Yes. Composite materials are generally more cost-effective than natural wood or stone due to their durability and reduced maintenance needs. DesertBoard PSB®, manufactured locally from palm fronds, adds further savings by cutting transport costs compared to imported materials. While offering premium sustainability and certifications, it is competitively priced and designed for reuse and longevity. For developers, DesertBoard provides the dual advantage of reduced lifecycle costs and alignment with sustainability goals, making it an economical yet eco-conscious choice.

Selecting facade cladding requires balancing regulatory compliance, performance in local climate conditions, and sustainability requirements. In the GCC, where building codes emphasize fire safety and durability, DesertBoard PSB® is tested to EN and BS standards, ensuring compliance. Its engineered resilience handles high humidity and pests, making it suitable for the region’s conditions. By choosing DesertBoard, developers meet regulatory obligations while aligning with global sustainability standards, ensuring facades are both compliant and environmentally progressive.

Environmental impacts vary widely. Timber can contribute to deforestation, stone and metal carry high embodied carbon, and MDF often emits formaldehyde. DesertBoard PSB® offers a unique alternative: carbon-negative, zero-formaldehyde, and sourced from upcycled palm fronds. Its local manufacturing in Abu Dhabi reduces transport emissions, making it one of the most eco-friendly facade cladding materials available. This reduces overall project footprint while demonstrating a clear commitment to environmental responsibility.

Yes. Many retrofit projects use cladding to improve thermal insulation and building performance. Adding an external cladding layer can reduce energy consumption, extend building lifespan, and refresh aesthetics. DesertBoard PSB® is well-suited for retrofit projects, offering durability, machinability, and sustainability credentials. Its carbon-negative profile also helps developers enhance environmental outcomes while upgrading performance. For retrofits, DesertBoard provides both practical and eco-friendly advantages.

Proper cleaning and maintenance are vital to extending facade cladding lifespan. Most systems require periodic washing to remove dust, mold, and pollutants, along with occasional sealing. Traditional wood demands heavy maintenance, but DesertBoard PSB® requires significantly less when finished with protective coatings. Its resistance to pests and climate-related wear reduces maintenance frequency. This makes DesertBoard a smart choice for developers seeking a facade cladding solution that combines ease of upkeep with sustainable performance.

Palm Strand Board (PSB®) from DesertBoard is manufactured in the UAE from upcycled date palm fronds, making it a carbon-negative alternative to traditional wood-based boards. Unlike imported plywood or MDF, it is deforestation-free and zero-formaldehyde, ensuring healthier air quality and reduced carbon emissions. With superior fire resistance, termite protection, and moisture resistance, DesertBoard delivers both safety and sustainability. Local manufacturing also reduces transport emissions and ensures consistent supply. This combination of eco-benefits and performance makes DesertBoard’s PSB® the region’s most sustainable facade cladding solution.

Yes. DesertBoard’s zero-formaldehyde PSB® is certified for healthy indoor air quality, making it ideal for sensitive environments such as schools, hospitals, and residential developments. Its carbon-negative production process ensures sustainability, while certifications like Al Sa’afat formaldehyde content certificate (E0) of product conformity guarantee that PSB® boards are super E0. In addition, DesertBoard’s facade cladding is fire-rated, ensuring compliance with UAE’s Ministry of Defense as well as European (EN 1634-P1), British (BS 476 -P22), and American (UL 10C) standards. The combination of health credentials and fire safety positions DesertBoard as the safe, sustainable choice for facades in high-occupancy buildings across the GCC.

DesertBoard PSB® is engineered to withstand the region’s harsh climate, including desert heat, humidity, and coastal conditions. With proper coatings, it resists UV exposure and moisture, ensuring long-term durability in exterior cladding applications; DesertBoard maintains its structural integrity and performance. Its resistance to termites adds further value in the GCC, where pest damage is common. This makes DesertBoard PSB® a reliable, sustainable solution for facade cladding in demanding environments.

Traditional cladding materials like MDF or plywood are often high in formaldehyde and not suited to hot or humid climates. HPL and aluminum boards, while durable, carry heavy embodied carbon from extraction and global transport. DesertBoard PSB® offers a better balance of sustainability, health, and performance. It is zero-formaldehyde, carbon-negative, and locally manufactured, reducing shipping emissions. With fire ratings of up to 90 minutes, DesertBoard performs to international standards while advancing green building goals in the GCC.

DesertBoard’s PSB® has been globally tested and certified under international standards, confirming its strength, durability, and stability. The board demonstrated an average density of 835 kg/m³, bending strength of 19.8 N/mm² with a modulus of elasticity of 3626 N/mm², and an internal bond strength of 0.95 N/mm². It maintained low moisture content at 5.4%, strong screw withdrawal resistance, minimal linear expansion at 0.068%, and controlled thickness swelling at 13%. DesertBoard is also recognized as a founding corporate member of the Society of Sustainability & Green Building Materials (SSGM), underscoring its certified sustainability credentials.

Yes. DesertBoard PSB® offers complete design flexibility for facade applications. Boards can be laminated, veneered, painted, or PU-coated to achieve a wide range of aesthetic finishes. It also allows architects to design unique facade elements, including curved or textured cladding. This makes DesertBoard not only a sustainable choice but also one that enhances creativity and design possibilities. The ability to deliver sustainability without limiting architectural expression is one of DesertBoard’s strongest advantages for facade projects.

Yes. While the upfront cost of DesertBoard may be comparable to premium cladding materials, the lifecycle cost is lower. Its durability, resistance to warping, and termite protection mean fewer replacements and lower maintenance over time. Being locally manufactured in the UAE also reduces shipping costs and delays compared to imported plywood or HPL. Additionally, DesertBoard contributes to LEED and Estidama credits, enhancing project value and investor appeal. Over the long term, DesertBoard offers superior cost-effectiveness while meeting sustainability goals.

DesertBoard maintains regional stock for standard board sizes in Kezad, Abu Dhabi, ensuring fast supply across the UAE and GCC. This reliable supply chain reduces project delays and ensures developers and contractors have consistent access to sustainable parquet cores when needed.

DesertBoard PSB® directly contributes to LEED, WELL, and Estidama certifications. Its carbon-negative production, zero-formaldehyde emissions, and sustainable sourcing align with credits for materials, air quality, and embodied carbon reduction. By specifying DesertBoard PSB® in furniture and fixed installations, developers and manufacturers improve project sustainability outcomes, comply with ESG frameworks, and enhance long-term project value.
PSB® Supreme Facade Cladding Board

Facade Cladding Performance & Compliance

PSB® Supreme is a palm strand board engineered for exterior facade cladding, combining high moisture resistance, structural strength, tested termite and decay resistance, and UAE manufacturing. Made in Abu Dhabi from date palm fronds given a second life, with no trees cut.

EN 310Bending strength and stiffness
EN 317Moisture resistance and thickness swelling
EN 318Dimensional stability
EN 117Termite resistance tested
E0No added formaldehyde, Al Sa'fat certified
EPDEN 15804 Environmental Product Declaration
ICVUAE In-Country Value aligned

Facade Cladding Board Built for UAE & GCC Climates

Heat, humidity and coastal exposure are what facades in the region have to withstand. PSB® Supreme is tested for bending strength, moisture resistance and dimensional stability to EN 310, EN 317 and EN 318, and holds its performance when faces and cut edges are coated.

<5%Thickness swelling when properly coated (EN 317)
3,500N/mm² modulus of elasticity (EN 310)
9–44mm board thickness for facade build-ups
01

Moisture Resistant Facade Cladding Board

Tested to EN 317, with thickness swelling of 15% or less uncoated and under 5% when properly coated, supporting stable performance in humid and coastal conditions.

02

High Strength Board for Cladding Systems

A 3,500 N/mm² modulus of elasticity and high screw withdrawal strength, with fixings that can be reused in the same hole without loss of performance.

03

UAE Manufactured Facade Cladding

Made in KEZAD, Abu Dhabi, with standard sizes held in regional stock, supporting ICV alignment, LEED and Estidama credits, and lower import dependency.

04

Termite & Decay Tested for GCC Conditions

Tested for termite resistance (EN 117) and fungal decay resistance (EN 113-3), where conventional wood panels offer no inherent termite protection.

PSB® Supreme vs OSB, Plywood & MDF for Facade Cladding

How palm strand board compares to conventional wood panels on the factors that decide exterior performance, indoor health and regional supply.

Feature PSB® Supreme OSB (EN 300) Plywood (EN 636) MDF (EN 622)
Exterior cladding use Suitable (system-based) Limited Suitable Not suitable
Moisture resistance High Moderate to high High Low
Thickness swelling Low (under 5% when coated) Moderate Low High
Dimensional stability High Moderate High Moderate
Termite resistance Tested (EN 117) Not inherent Not inherent Not inherent
Fungal / decay resistance Tested (EN 113-3) Limited Moderate Poor
Formaldehyde E0, no added formaldehyde (<0.005 ppm) E1 / E0 E1 E1
Raw material Upcycled date palm fronds, no trees cut Softwood strands Veneer logs Wood fibres
EPD availability Yes (EN 15804) Sometimes Sometimes Rare
UAE supply 100% locally manufactured Imported Imported Imported

Based on PSB® test reports and the EN standards listed for each panel type. Exterior suitability for any panel depends on the full cladding system and project specification.

Is PSB® Supreme suitable for exterior facade cladding?
Yes, as part of a properly specified cladding system. PSB® Supreme offers high moisture resistance and dimensional stability, and is tested for termite (EN 117) and fungal decay (EN 113-3) resistance. For exterior use, faces and cut edges should be coated, fixings pre-drilled, and boards protected from rain during storage and transport. Final suitability depends on the cladding build-up and project specification, which DesertBoard's technical team can review.
What is the thickness swelling of PSB® Supreme in humid conditions?
Tested to EN 317, PSB® Supreme has a maximum thickness swelling of 15% uncoated, falling below 5% when properly coated. In testing, 12 mm boards recorded 12.2% and 18 mm boards recorded 13%, both within the declared limit.
How does PSB® Supreme compare to OSB, plywood and MDF for facade cladding?
MDF is not suited to exterior cladding because of its high thickness swelling and low moisture resistance, and OSB is limited in exterior use. Exterior plywood is suitable but imported, and like OSB and MDF has no inherent termite resistance. PSB® Supreme combines high moisture resistance and dimensional stability with tested termite and decay resistance, an E0 no-added-formaldehyde binder, and 100% UAE manufacturing. See the comparison table above.
What sizes and finishes is PSB® Supreme available in for facades?
Boards are produced 1,200 to 1,250 mm wide, 1,830 to 3,048 mm long and 9 to 44 mm thick. Finishes include raw, sanded, premium putty, premium plus coated and veneer, with standard sizes held in stock at KEZAD, Abu Dhabi for supply across the UAE and GCC.