Aluminium composite panels are being used on the facade of the building at 270 Dostyk Avenue in Almaty. However, the technical specification for the corresponding state procurement initially provided for cladding with natural stone.
WHAT IS HAPPENING AT THE SITE
According to the owner of Almaty Ventilation Plant LLP (AVZ), Marat Bakkulov, workers at the site are cutting the aluminium composite panel with a utility knife, forming it by hand and mounting it on the facade.
Bakkulov drew attention to the compliance of the material actually being used with the procurement documentation and the requirements that apply to facade systems.
WHAT THE STATE PROCUREMENT PROVIDES FOR
The buildings at 266, 268 and 270 Dostyk form part of state procurement No. 16727024-2, lot No. 86091969-OK1. The value of the lot is 692.18 million tenge excluding VAT.
The technical specification initially specified cladding with natural stone — travertine, limestone or granite. Upon agreement with the client, replacement with porcelain stoneware or similar large-format facade panels that meet the requirements of facade systems is permitted.
The document also requires the use of certified materials and the provision of information on their make, model, manufacturer and origin. The type and parameters of the material used must be agreed with the client.
WHAT REQUIREMENTS FOR FACADES BAKKULOV CITED
The publication cites paragraph 27 of Almaty akimat resolution No. 1/215 of 28 February 2025. It does not permit the use of composite panels as the finishing cladding of ventilated facade systems.
Bakkulov also refers to paragraph 179 of the Technical Regulation "General Requirements for Fire Safety". From 2025, for buildings of all fire-resistance ratings except class V, external walls must have cladding made of non-combustible materials.
WHY THIS SITUATION ATTRACTED ATTENTION
Bakkulov linked the situation to the broader issue of material selection in projects implemented with budget funds. In his opinion, procurement must take into account not only cost but also the quality of the products, their production technologies and compliance with established requirements.
