With all the choices in the market, choosing a wall panel system is no easy task. One certainly wants to get the best value both now and in the future, but there are as many considerations as there are options. This decision needs to be broken down into smaller components. Not doing so may produce compromises in the end result.
If I were to break down the panels’ system selection, I would first review system materials. Then I would look at the system itself-performance, aesthetics, depth, etc. One must remember the materials the system is fabricated from have attributes, and in many cases materials can be formulated into a number of different systems with their accompanying attributes. For example, one could have his or her mind set on all the features of a pressure equalized rainscreen system. This system could be built from metal composite material (MCM) or monolithic materials such as aluminum or stainless. The material of choice would be different if one were cladding the entrance to a school where the impact strength of monolithic materials would prevail.
Conversely, a choice might be made based on the color shifting paint in the MCM color chart. Material traits can affect your project choice and the long-term performance of your project. In order to make a good decision one must consider the material’s characteristics that compose your wall panel system.
Why would one select one system over another? A few attributes that need to be considered are:
- Initial Cost: The biggest contributor to cost when choosing a wall panel system is the system itself.
- Maintenance: How much do I have to invest in the installation to keep it looking and performing in the future?
- Aesthetics: Systems play a great part in determining the overall aesthetics of the wall. This is partially true because of the joint design, but the project’s geometry may play a part in system selection.
- Wall Design/System Depth: Certain system types require particular types of wall design. An example of this would be rainscreen wall systems require a cavity and an air barrier behind them by definition. These components can increase system depth which in some cases may be impact the decision-making process.
- Geometry: Certain systems are manufactured by roll forming them. These systems can be very economical, but they have limited flexibility. Other systems are formed. While these give greater flexibility, they also inherently are more expensive.
There is a definite process when properly selecting a wall panel system. First, one must consider the building and owner and assess their requirements. Secondly, one needs to determine what materials meet those needs, and finally, one needs to determine the system based on its qualities. Though this process takes time, following it will lead to greater satisfaction with the chosen wall system.
Rick Kruger is the director of technical support services and product development at Firestone Metal Products, Anoka, Minn. To learn more, visit www.firestonemetal.com.