How Metal Cladding Works, From Connection Details To Material Choices

Metal cladding has become a popular choice for architects and builders in Australia thanks to its sleek aesthetics, durability, and ability to improve thermal performance. At Metrix Group, the leading name in the perforated sheet metal industry, we take metal cladding to the next level with our meticulous design techniques, flexible manufacturing  and diverse material selection. 

At Metrix Group, our commitment to quality includes fixing systems and we can recommend installation partners . We perforate a diverse range of materials, from copper and steel to aluminium, zinc and nylon. We’re a leader in the metal cladding industry, and our team’s expertise ensures your building receives a cladding system that is beautiful but also durable and safe.

The Power and Beauty of Metal Cladding

Our team of experts at Metrix Group understands the power and beauty of a well-designed facade or exterior cladding using metal sheets or panels on commercial buildings or residential projects. However, metal cladding isn’t just about contemporary architecture or aesthetic appeal. 

The suitable cladding enhances a building’s functionality, durability, and overall character, and the final product can be a cost-effective method of protecting a building from harsh weather conditions. 

Metrix Group Metal Cladding Systems

All Metrix Group’s metal cladding systems, generally manufactured from aluminium, are code-compliant, quality assured to ISO9001, fire-resistant, perfect for residential, commercial, and other construction or refurbishment purposes. We take pride in customising your cladding materials and producing unique and visually pleasing designs explicitly tailored to your architectural or building needs. 

How and Where to Use Metal Cladding

Metrix Group enjoys a strong relationship with the architectural sector, focusing on commercial and residential building and recladding projects that require the following:

• Balustrades
• Ceiling Packages
• External Cladding
• Internal Walls
• Internal Acoustics
• Facades
• Glazing Packages
• Louvres
• Metalwork Packages
• Sunshades Packages

Our perforated metal solutions provide architects and designers with visual depth for sun screening, noise avoidance, ventilation and lightweight fencing. More recently, perforated metal has gained popularity with its connections to climate change initiatives.

Metrix Group Metal Cladding and Connections

How metal cladding panels are connected to a building’s structure is as important as the material used, whether perforated or solid. Metrix Group’s perforated metal products make adding form and function easy on walls, ceilings, facades, and balustrades. Thanks to our flexibility, perforated metal or solid panels are perfect for applications where aesthetics are essential, but function also matters.  Our cladding system designs include bespoke fixing systems that are energy-efficient, aesthetically pleasing, and durable. Our installation systems include:

• The CF4000 is a concealed installation system that is quick and easy to install. 
• The SS3000 installation system spans up to 3.3 metres reducing the need for extra structural steel
• The varying panel depth of the TS1200 system creates a 3-dimensional effect and addition of multi-coloured panels
• The DD600 installation system is designed to display multiple pictures or patterns in a beautiful zig-zagged configuration.
• The FF600 installation system offers flexibility in panel size and shape for quick and easy installation.
• Custom fixing system design methods are available for unique applications.

These are the steps taken to bring your vision to life:

1. Speak to us before the design process begins. Share your design intent and we can share possible solutions. 
2. Choose the product type and pattern that meets your project’s design intent, whether it’s 3D Artform, a perforated image, or standard perforation.
3. The material type and thicknesses are varied to suit the product type, pattern, and installation system. 
4. The product application and project design intent determine the best installation and connection or fixing system. We can also assess the need for engineering sign-off before installation.
5. The most common connection methods include Metrix Corroguard isolating grommets fitted between screens and framing, which also assists with isolating and absorbing structure-borne vibrations. 

Architects and designers can rest assured when specifying Metrix Group’s proprietary installation systems.  As all products are made to order, every project requires a unique engineering consideration in  accordance to relevant Australian standards and the national building code. Find more detailed information here. 

Choosing the Right Cladding For Your Project

Metrix Group understands that “one size fits all” doesn’t apply to metal cladding. They offer a comprehensive selection of materials to suit various project needs and aesthetics, whether used on iconic buildings or residential projects:

• Aluminium: 

Aluminium is a lightweight and versatile cladding material that is popular for its affordability, wide range of colours and finishes, and ease of fabrication. Metrix Group’s aluminium panels are ideal for creating artistic facades and intricate designs.

• Stainless Steel: 

Stainless steel is a perfect option for a touch of timeless elegance and superior durability. Metrix Group offers steel cladding in various finishes, from brushed steel to mirror-polished, to cater to different design preferences. Stainless steel is also known for its low maintenance requirements.

• Zinc: 

This naturally occurring metal is a popular choice for cladding because it develops a unique patina over time, adding a rustic charm to a building’s exterior. Zinc offers excellent corrosion resistance and requires minimal maintenance, making it a sustainable choice. 

NOTE: Stock is limited and lead times for material will need to factored in to every project

• Copper: 

Copper as a cladding material offers a warm, metallic glow, adding a touch of sophistication to any building envelope. Similar to zinc, copper develops a beautiful patina over time. 

NOTE: Stock is limited and lead times for material will need to factored in to every project

• Custom Metal Panels: 

Metrix Group can create custom metal panels for cladding projects requiring a unique aesthetic. They can perforate the panels to create artistic patterns, integrate lighting features, or even incorporate pre-formed shapes to bring the architect’s vision to life.

Choose Metrix Group For Metal Cladding

Whether it’s a custom 3D artform™ screen or the infinity pattern of our Galaxy Acoustic™, our award-winning Design Studio is ready to discuss how we can help materialise your vision for a perfect metal cladding system. Metrix Group manufactures in Melbourne and ships Australia Wide – and internationally too. We’re ready to assist with your design and installation challenges today. Contact us here for all your perforated cladding needs. 

Ways to Use Perforated Metal Inside

Perforated metal has become a staple material in modern architectural design with its intricate mesh-like appearance and unique combination of form and function. For intricate decorative details, perforated metal is a quality material for facades and stylish furniture. Its versatility and structural integrity make it perfect for stair treads and applications in outdoor spaces where direct light needs to be limited. Perforated metal is also great for indoor decorations and functions.  

The diverse ways perforated metal panels can elevate your design projects include the following:

The Transformative Effect of Perforation Technology

Transform a perforated metal staircase with custom steel or aluminium mesh treads. The blend of solid and durable qualities and visual appeal adds a modern touch while maintaining slip resistance. Adding perforated steel or aluminum balustrades to a metal staircase can enhance your indoor decor. The transparent effect of perforated metal can achieve light filtration and visual connection while providing safety and visual openness.

More Ways to Use Perforated Sheet Metal Indoors

You can use a perforated metal sheet for a room divider or custom-designed screens. Incorporating geometric shapes, floral patterns, or custom artwork can create decorative details and enclose spaces. Other creative ways to use perforated metal include floor-to-ceiling privacy screens for a harmonious balance. Perforated decorative metal screens diffuse sound, regulate light, and offer privacy and more protection from the elements without completely blocking views.

Decorative Perforated Metal in an Outdoor Space

A perforated metal awning or perforated metal facade in an outdoor space used for structural and decorative applications can add a dramatic dimension and sun protection to buildings. Choose from standard perforation holes or custom designs to create an unforgettable signature look. Perforated steel balustrades provide style and safety for outdoor stairways leading from roofs or balconies. A perforated metal staircase with perforated sheet metal stair treads is safe, stylish and efficient to install.

Other ways to use perforated metal outdoors include:

• Perforated Metal Screen in Outdoor Spaces:

Enhance muti-storey residential with perforated metal screens in a biophilic pattern or the custom design of your choice. Perforated metal screens create a sense of privacy, provide visual appeal, and filter sunlight. They are strong and durable, offering wind and rain protection and allowing light to filter through.

• Decorative Perforated Panels for HVAC System Cover-Up: 

Disguise unsightly HVAC units with perforated metal screens, panels, or an outdoor awning for protection. Choose a perforated metal design that complements your exterior while allowing for necessary airflow.

• Sustainable Design Using Perforated Metal: 

Perforated metal helps regulate building temperatures naturally by filtering direct sunlight and promoting air circulation. A perforated screen encloses spaces, meaning less heating and cooling is needed in an office or home area, reducing energy consumption.

The Advantages of Perforated Metal

Perforated metal is robust and durable, offering exceptional structural integrity and high load-bearing capacity while remaining lightweight. Perforated metal is versatile, available in various materials, thicknesses and perforation patterns, and adapts to diverse design needs. At Metrix Group, we can create intricate designs for an exterior facade with custom perforated sheets to provide visual interest and match your unique vision for an existing structure or new build. 

Our perforated metal options are fire-resistant (Tested and Certified) and slip-resistant, adding an extra layer of safety for stair treads and other applications. Perforated metal shines in architectural, industrial and commercial venues with numerous applications, including:

• Suspended ceilings:

Add a modern touch with a custom design for a suspended ceiling with 600 x 600 or 1200 x 600 ceiling tiles while enhancing acoustics.

• Furniture accents:

Create unique tabletops, cabinet doors, decorative panels or a custom-designed screen.

• Balustrades:

Add a touch of elegance, flexibility and texture. We have a range of designs to address climbability and finger entrapment guidelines.

• Outdoor awnings: 

Provide shade and visual interest while allowing air circulation.

• Suspended walkways:

Combine safety with a striking aesthetic.

The Added Advantages of Perforated Metal

Perforated metal is a versatile and innovative material transforming the design landscape. Its strong and durable qualities, visual interest, and wide range of applications offer endless possibilities for aesthetic enhancement and functional solutions. To add a touch of modern elegance or improve functionality in your design project, consider the many possibilities of perforated metal.

Harness the Power of Perforated Metal

With Metrix Group, you can harness the power of industrial-quality customised or standard perforated metal panels as an exterior screen of a particular shape or size. Our metal sheets can be punched in various shapes, allowing natural light to spill through the typically circular holes (Or try something new and exciting with Pebblestone™) and creating intricate shadows for decorative effect. 

Contact Metrix Group For Perforated Metal

Metrix Group perforated metal can be engineered for different crowd loadings and other load-bearing capacity like span and wind. Additions of folds and spars make it perfect as a building material for architectural cladding and many other uses. MEtrix Group’s perforated metal is a versatile and valuable tool across all industries and applications, from the practical to the aesthetic. 

Whether you need perforated stainless steel, perforated aluminium sheets or recommendations on other materials, we offer perforated designer metal in a hole size that’s right for the purpose. Contact us today, and let’s design your next project together.