Perforated façades can be used in a variety of ways, from creating an airy and open feeling to providing privacy and security.
The use of perforated metal panels is becoming more popular as the building industry looks for new ways to make buildings more energy efficient. The metal sheets can be fabricated as panels, cassettes and almost any shape conceivable to create unique architectural details that add interest and beauty to a structure.
A perforated metal facade adds to the aesthetic appearance of a building. It provides natural ventilation and reduces heat gain or loss through the building envelope. It also increases light penetration into the interior space.
Perforated metal cladding shields your building from the elements while allowing natural light to enter. This cladding is particularly useful for large-scale projects like car park facades where it’s essential to reduce the energy required to keep the building cool during hot weather.
The addition of 3D perforations creates texture, sun shading and a dynamic play of light and shadow throughout different parts of the day.
This article discusses common questions architects and designers ask when designing perforated metal facades.
- What is a perforated facade?
- What’s the best type of metal facade?
- What does 3D perforation deliver that 2D perforation does not?
- What is the purpose of perforation?
- How does light enter through a perforated façade?
- What are the practical benefits of perforated cladding?
- Can I incorporate a design into the metal perforations?
- How long does it take to install perforated metal cladding?
- Is it possible to install perforated steel facades over concrete?
- How does the size of the perforated metal hole influence the performance of the facade?
- How does the shape of the hole influence the facade’s appearance?
- Is there any restriction on the type of metal I can use for perforated cladding?
- Which materials should I consider when selecting my perforated metal facade?
- Are there restrictions on the size of metal perforations?
- What kind of paint or coating can I apply over the perforated metal facades?
- What is the difference between punched holes and drilled holes?
- What is the advantage of punching holes over drilling them?
- Is perforated metal suitable for all types of buildings?
- Can perforated cladding be fitted to an existing building?
- Will fixings be visible behind the metal cladding?
- Do I need to remove the current siding before installing perforated metal cladding?
- How does the perforation affect the thermal performance of the facade?
- Does the perforation affect sound transmission?
- What is the best way to protect perforated metal facades against corrosion?
- Is perforated cladding right for my client’s budget expectations?
- What is a Perforated Facade?
A perforated facade has holes or openings through which light enters the interior space. The holes or punches (referred to as open area) are typically round, square or rectangular but tooling can be created to make almost any custom shape and size. You can read more here
- What’s the best type of metal facade?
It’s entirely dependent on your objective. When designing a perforated metal façade, we like to consider functionality first:
- Will the façade be exposed to the afternoon sun?
- Are their environmental factors like salt water, cyclonic winds or extreme heat?
- Does the façade need to protect property or prevent entry?
- Are there any thermal requirements or acoustic expectations?
- Will the façade be both a day time and night time attraction
If you’re looking for inspiration, feel free to search our projects for examples of best use cases.
- What does 3D perforation deliver that 2D perforation does not?
3D is a beautiful, flexible and unique product to Metrix Group. Made by varying form heights with different shapes, a 3D perforated façade is textured, intriguing and high performing. While a 2D perforated façade still has the ability to provide privacy, ventilation and filer light; 3D artform can be formed to direct the light, work with back lighting, control water run-off and create dynamic light and shade.
Learn more about our 3D artform products here
- What is the purpose of perforation?
A popular use for architectural perforated facades is to provide natural lighting for an interior space or create an aesthetic finish for an otherwise plain surface. In this way, the facade becomes both attractive and functional.
When paired with conventional glazing, it is also possible to reduce the amount of energy needed for heating or cooling.Within in a carpark, perforated metal provides multiple purposes. They allow the necessary light spill for day time. With masses of car traffic, the perforations allow air flow and ventilation. The screens also act as a privacy and security feature.
- How Does Light Enter Through A Perforated Façade?
When light passes through a perforated facade, it does so through the holes themselves. Adjusting the open area and pitch allows light to enter directly into the interior space.
Setting the perforations back from glazing sets up effective filtering of light and heat.
Lighting Design Considerations
- The location and orientation of the facade. For example, a perforated facade on the east side of a building may have a larger open area for the morning sun as opposed to smaller perforations for the warmer afternoon sun on the west side.
- The height of the facade. Larger holes need to be placed higher up on the facade to avoid creating shadows on the ground below. Perforations at the bottom of facades are also often small to combat climbing.
- Open area also dictates aesthetic. Smaller holes give a more refined look, while larger ones are more dramatic.
- The shape of the holes. Round holes are usually preferred of their flexibility. Rectangular holes are less common but can add a very modern and geometric interest to a facade.
- The overall style of the building. Modern buildings tend to use perforated facades more frequently but perforated metal is quickly become a useful gateway material for linking old to new.
- What are the practical benefits of perforated cladding?
There are many practical benefits of installing perforated metal facades. They include:
- Energy efficiency – Because perforated metal facades allow more natural light inside, they help reduce energy costs.
- Protection from extreme weather conditions – When exposed to rain, snow, wind, hail, sleet, and other harsh elements, perforated metal facades provide protection against damage.
- Durability – Perforated metal facades are incredibly durable and require very little maintenance when coated and installed correctly.
- Versatility – Perforated metal facade systems are versatile. They can be used for both interior and exterior applications with sheets, cassettes, tiles and so much more.
- Low cost – Perforated metal panels are low cost starting from simple 2D classicPerf™to imagePerf™ and 3D artform™.
- Flexibility – Perforated metal panel systems are flexible. They can be customised according to your needs.
- Acoustic – Perforated metal facades are great acoustic barriers. They absorb sound waves and with correct fixing systems, prevent noise transfer.
- Fire – Our Perforated metal facadesare fire tested and certified to Fire resistance and non-combustibility AS/NZS 1530.1:1994.
- Lightweight – Perforated metal is light with a high strength to weight ratio.
- Can I incorporate a design into the metal perforations?
Absolutely. In fact, we recommend it!
Adding a pattern from our 2D decorPerf™ range or creating a captivating picture with our imagePerf™ is easy with the assistance of our design studio
We can create custom tools for custom holes, incorporate 3D forms and embossing. The combinations are almost limitless.
- How long does it take to install perforated metal cladding?
It depends on the complexity of the project, the type of panels, installation system and substrate. Each panel is labelled with our Dot Fonts to help match consecutive panels together. Our fixing systems require less steel and therefore less installation time. Early contractor involvement always assists in efficient installation. Listen to Gordon Beath (Principle Architect – Edge Architecture) describe how Metrix Group addressed the complexities of Art Work Spaces
- Is it possible to install perforated steel facades over concrete?
Yes. Concrete is an excellent material to cover because it has high tensile strength. Below is a great example of how one of fixing systems aids in the installation of a slab-to-slab panel.
(INSERT GIF)
- How does the size of the perforated metal hole influence the performance of the facade?
A large hole will let more light in than a smaller hole. However, this depends on the height and orientation of your screens. As a guide, we normally recommend:
- 5% to 25% for privacy and security
- as high as 75% for decoration and ventilation
- flexibility and multi-use we recommend around 50%.
- How does the shape of the hole influence the facade’s appearance?
Round holes are a classic style but are also one of the strongest shapes. They are best used in imageperf™ and buildings where the design emphasises clean lines. Slits or round-slot are another popular option for modern facades. These slots are often combined with round holes to create a morse pattern.
Round holes are generally considered to be more simple and therefore flexible than rectangular holes. They create a softer appearance and are often associated with modern architecture. Rectangular holes are more aggressive and are usually found in industrial buildings. Check out our projects page for more inspiration
- Is there any restriction on the type of metal I can use for perforated cladding?
There are no restrictions regarding the type of metal used for perforated metal facades. You can choose from aluminium, stainless steel, galvanised steel, mild steel, copper, zinc, brass and bronze. You can find our sheet sizes and material guide here
- Which materials should I consider when selecting my perforated metal facade?
We recommend 4 key considerations when designing your facade:
- The cost of the material.
- Durability of the material.
- Dissimilar metals and installation.
- Finally, desired finish and aesthetics.
- Are there restrictions on the size of metal perforations?
The size of the hole can be from 1.5mm diameter and up.
The only restrictions relate to structural integrity. That is, the whole size versus the sheet size and the intended fixing method that supports the installation.
Our design studio can help advise on best practice.
- What kind of paint or coating can I apply over the perforated metal facade?
Neutrals are a strong, traditional choices for a facade; however, bold bright colours work well in small executions as a feature.
The 3 basic finishes we recommend are mill finish, powder coated and anodising.
Each of these finishes had benefits and challenges when considering durability, warranties, consistency and speed.
You can read more about our finishes here
- What is the difference between punched holes and drilled holes?
Punched holes are created by pressing a sharp tool through the sheet. Drilled holes are made by drilling a hole, with a bit through the sheet. Punched holes are usually stronger than drilled holes because they are less prone to tearing or breaking.
Metrix Group prefer the method of punching.
Perforations can be made in different ways:
- By punching holes through the metal sheet (punch-through)
- By cutting out pieces from the metal sheet (laser-cut)
- By creating small openings between the sheets (slit)
- By making cuts along the edges of the sheets (edge cut)
We also recommend you consider 3D artformEmboss™. While it’s not a perforation, the texture and shading created from this process is spectacular.
- What is the advantage of punching holes over drilling them?
The main advantage of punching holes instead of drilling them is reduced lead time. It takes longer to drill holes than punch holes. A punch is cleaner and the slugs can be collected for recycling. Our state-of-the-art machines are automated to create efficient and accurate craftsmanship, every time.
- Is perforated metal suitable for all types of buildings?
Perforated metal facades are suitable for all types of buildings. The combination of pattern versus forming versus panel shape and fixing method allows the material to be adapted to many types of architecture.
Check out these examples of a wide range of designations
Commercial Building: ABN Group Headquarters
Bridge: Juliette St Bridge
Convention Centre: Sydney International Convention Centre
Education: University of Melbourne
Multi-Storey Residential: No 1 Lachlan Waterloo
Multi-Storey Carpark: Queen Elizabeth Hospital Car Park
- Can perforated cladding be fitted to an existing building?
Yes. In fact, perforated metal is perfect for retro-fitting to plain walls or tired surfaces. Not only does this make change more immediate, the wall colour can add to the aesthetic of the façade depending on the texture or colour that can be viewed through the perforations.
- Will fixings be visible behind the metal cladding?
Metrix Group have a range of fixing systems including a concealed version. You can read more about our exterior fixing systems here.
- Do I need to remove the current siding before installing perforated metal claddings?
No. You do not need to remove your current siding before installing our perforated metal cladding, providing that the fixing system has a solid structure to connect to.
- How does the perforation affect the thermal performance of the facade?
A perforated facade improves thermal performance based on careful selection of the open area. A combination of ventilation and ability to reflect solar radiation helps maintain a cool temperature within the façade. The system of a double-skinned façade can be optomised by adjusting the glazing, air gap and the open area of the perforated metal to suit your desired climate.
- Does the perforation affect sound transmission?
Yes. Perforated metal facades reduce noise levels and unwanted reverberation. In fact, they can be optomised to absorb sound waves. The use of our unique fixing systems also aid in preventing noise from transferring to the building.
- What is the best way to protect perforated metal facades against corrosion?
Perforated metal facades are very durable. Aluminium, stainless steel and galvanised steel are all highly resistant to corrosion. To ensure that the perforated metal facade remains protected against corrosion, certified powder coating and dissimilar metal protection for the installation system are also highly recommended.
- Is perforated cladding right for my client’s budget expectations?
Metrix Group are not the cheapest manufacture of perforated metal in Australia, we’re the best manufacturer of perforated metal. Our products are rigorously tested, certified and come as complete façade systems.
Our 2D classicPerf™ range is still a fantastic, high performing product at an affordable price. As you move up through more complex and unique products like imagePerf™ and 3D artform™, the price increases. However, the price ensures, lead time, precision and responsibility. All aspects that will save you money in the long term.
A conversation with our estimating team is always the best place to start.
About The Metrix Group
Metrix Group is an Australia-based manufacturer of architectural perforated metal facades and cladding systems. The company offers a wide range of products, including commercial, 2D and 3D perforated metal facades, balustrades, ceiling tiles and much more. We provide architects, designers and builders with a complete solution for their projects.
Better Together
Whether it’s custom 2D ventilation or 3D embossed and artistic, our award-winning Design Studio are ready to hear how our expertise can assist your vision.