Many building projects contain more than one product on its exterior facade. Whether it’s metal and brick, curtainwalls, wood or even concrete, it’s important the materials line up correctly. No one wants to walk into a building where the exterior walls don’t line up properly. And aside from the purely aesthetic reasons, an improperly lined-up facade could cause other problems with the building.
When it comes to ensuring metal composite material (MCM) panels line up properly with another material on a building facade, it’s important to work with a fabricator. As Zeke Miller, president of MillerClapperton, Austell, Ga., shares, “MCM sheet manufacturers for the most part do not offer solutions to attach their sheet goods to any type of substrate.”
Paul A. Millslagle, vice-president of sales and marketing at Americlad LLC, Rogers, Minn., adds “The fabricator’s role is an important one. They can help ensure the connection point works with both scopes of work and meets the criteria for their workmanship warranty. This may also assist in the specification process on which type of system works best for the project.”
Planning ahead
Architects and fabricators should work together to ensure all materials will line up properly on a building facade. As Millslagle notes, this conversation should take place early in the design planning when materials are being chosen for the facade. “Giving the architect the available choices early enough allow them time for discussion with the appropriate parties involved to ensure a successful project that looks great and remains on budget.”
Things to consider
When trying to ensure a smooth transition between MCM panels and another material, Miller says it’s important to consider things such as the size of the joint, geometry, the types of materials being terminated against, and the type of system.
Miller says architects should review the specifications of each material to determine how to detail the transition. Warranties of each product should be reviewed. Most MCM fabricators will have details available for most of the different product transitions the architect’s use.
There are some materials easier to detail this type of transition than others, like materials made from aluminum. “We as fabricators are more aware of how they will react with expansion and contraction. Other materials need additional review to ensure the transition is properly detailed.”
These transitions are not without their challenges though. “The biggest challenge,” Millslagle says, “is to make sure both the metal panel system and the product or system that is connecting to is allowed to function as designed and tested. Construction materials have different tested tolerances to ensure their longevity and proper functionality and this needs to be addressed. If this is not addressed problems may occur over time.”
The role of the fabricator
Vince Neault, business development manager at KSC Inc. says, “The fabricator will determine the appropriate connection methods and systems. This could involve designing custom brackets, profiles, or clips that enable secure attachment and proper alignment of the MCM panels with other building materials.
According to Neault, a fabricator plays a crucial role in determining how MCM panels will connect to other materials such as glazing, brick, wood, and more. Their expertise and knowledge are essential in ensuring a safe and secure installation. “Next, the fabricator will collaborate with the project team, including architects, designers, and engineers, to develop connection details that meet both aesthetic and functional objectives. They will consider factors such as weather resistance, thermal expansion and contraction, load-bearing capabilities, and compatibility with different materials.”
When it comes to coordinating products outside of the ones they are specifically fabricating, product research needs to be reviewed such as spec data to ensure these materials are compatible. Millslagle says, “It is also very important to have continued conversations with the installing contractor as they are typically the communication line between you and the other manufacturers and will most likely have more experience with the alternate products that your metal panel system will be connecting to.”
Millslagle says when specifying MCM, make sure you are using a quality fabricator. One who has tested and can provide engineering for their systems. “Fabricators can be certified through the MCM Fabrication Program. Physical samples are nice to see to check the workmanship of the MCM.”
Customer requirements
Identifying customer requirements is also an important piece of the puzzle. Neault explains the fabricator first needs to understand the specific requirements of the customer when the product they seek falls outside their typical offerings. This involves thorough communication and gathering detailed information about the desired specifications, design, dimensions, and functional requirements.
He feels effective communication is crucial when coordinating products outside the typical offerings. The fabricator must maintain constant communication with the customer, suppliers, and internal teams to ensure everyone is aligned on the progress, any potential challenges, and any necessary adjustments to the production plan.
Neault says, “The fabricator should also develop a comprehensive plan and schedule for coordinating the production of the requested product. This involves aligning the production timelines with the supplier’s capabilities, ensuring a smooth flow of materials and components, and avoiding any potential bottlenecks or delays.”
From start to finish, to ensure functional and aesthetic objectives are met, constant communication is key.
What do architects need to know when designing transitions?
According to Vince Neault, business development manager at KSC Inc., when designing transitions between (MCM) panels and other materials, architects should consider several important factors to achieve a seamless and visually pleasing integration. Here are some key points they need to know:
Material compatibility: Understanding the properties and characteristics of both MCM panels and the adjacent materials is essential. Architects should ensure the materials selected for the transition can effectively bond to the MCM panels and withstand any differential movements caused by thermal expansion or contraction.
Design continuity: Maintaining design continuity is crucial for a harmonious transition. Architects should consider the overall aesthetic and architectural style of the building to ensure the transition aligns with the intended design intent.
Scale and proportions: Paying attention to the scale and proportions of the transition area is vital. Architects must carefully consider the size, thickness, and arrangement of the MCM panels, as well as the adjacent materials, to achieve a balanced and visually pleasing transition.
Detailing and joint treatment: Developing precise detailing and joint treatment is crucial for a seamless transition. Architects need to consider the use of appropriate joint profiles, such as recessed or shadow lines, to create a clean transition between materials while minimizing the visual impact of joints.
Weatherproofing and structural integrity: Ensuring weatherproofing and structural integrity is essential for any transition. Architects should carefully plan and specify the use of appropriate flashing and waterproofing systems to prevent water infiltration and to protect the building envelope.
Installation considerations: Architects should collaborate closely with contractors and installers during the design phase to understand the installation requirements for both MCM panels and the adjacent materials. This collaboration will help ensure the transition can be executed properly and efficiently.
Building codes and regulations: Architects must comply with local building codes and regulations when designing transitions between MCM panels and other materials. They need to consider fire resistance, accessibility, and any specific requirements set forth by authorities having jurisdiction.
By considering these factors, architects can design transitions between MCM panels and other materials that seamlessly integrate with the overall building design while providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing result