Choosing perforated metal panels; a winning decision for today’s architectural projects

Perforated metal panels are part of an emerging industry that offers sustainable and cost-effective  solutions for architectural projects of all types.

Thanks to the nature of architectural metal panels, it is possible to mold and customize them to adapt to the different needs that a project may have. In this blog we want to share with you 6 reasons why choosing metal panels is an infallible winning decision.

Aesthetics

A perforated metal panel placed for example, in a dividing wall, can allow us to give a view and finish out of the ordinary giving a look that adds value to any project, enhancing the space in which it inhabits.

One of the main advantages of a metal panel is that it can be customized. With the Puncto perforation technique you can perforate the metal with geometric figures of different sizes creating the pattern of your preference.

“Caseta Cumbres San Agustín” Mexico, galvanized steel panel, Puncto perforated by

It is also possible to create different perforations no matter the difference of shapes not necessarily symmetrical using our Lasion technique which is laser cutting.

“Pueblo Serena” México, panel: aluminum painted and perforated Lasion by Astyl

You can even make an image with Perfor-art which is a new technology that allows us to perforate metal with the purpose of capturing images on it.

Perforated panel by Studio Egret West at “The Old Vinyl Factory” UK, Photograph by Paul White Photography Ltd.

If you are looking for something more showy and out of the ordinary, we suggest playing with light and shadows with our Pixel punching technique, this technique allows you to create an image that takes advantage of the position of the light to manifest itself, which offers a vivid 3D effect thanks to the unique technology of Ombrae® studios, a patented technology that we are the only ones authorized to offer in Mexico. 

Left photo taken at 12:00pm, right photo taken at 6:00pm, Sait Parkade, Canada by Ombrae Studio.

Depending on the requirements and needs of each project, there are many design possibilities. Who said rectangular panels have to be boring? They are practically a blank canvas for the imagination, the ideal scenario to think outside the box and dare to get boldly creative.

Cost Effectiveness and Durability

Perforated metal panels are very light and compact, even compared to the most popular cladding materials used in building projects. This has an impact on transportation issues since it reduces costs by being compact and light because it is easier and more cost effective to transport, for example: if you need to replicate the same façade in different points of a region, it is a notorious saving in freight. 

Another advantage of perforated metal panels is that they are zero maintenance, which will be a significant savings in the future. You may ask yourself: “how is this possible?” or “how to keep my panels in good condition?” the answer is that it is only recommended to clean the panels to keep them clean, in the case of interior is only to remove dust and outside you can use pressurized water once a year to remove accumulated dirt or let the rain can do this job periodically, but this does not interfere with its durability or functionality.

Hotel Ritz Carlton México, corten steel panel and perforated Lasion by Astyl

If this is not enough, in the case that your panel is made of corten steel, no additional effort is needed, this material is self-supporting.

Perforated metal panels require no maintenance and are highly durable, ensuring the success of your project for many years. Another important point is that the panels are easy to install as they have their own anchoring systems. This means that it is not necessary to invest in adhesives or additional materials.

Safety

The panels are very safe as they are not fire conductors like other flammable products in the market, for example, aluminum composite materials, the well known “sandwich”. 

Having the peace of mind of investing in flammable products gives the confidence of a safe project in any situation regardless of the passage of time.

“Malmo Museum” Sweden. by Tham & Videgård Arkitekter architects.

Sustainability and energy savings

In addition to the above mentioned, using perforated metal panels you get energy benefits such as energy savings (in the use of air conditioning), since in the case of covering an outdoor space, say a metal facade is protecting the building as a second skin and serves as thermal insulation. 

Paseo Durango” Mexico, galvanized steel panel, perforated Lasion by Astyl.

Also if you require a natural flow of light or air, this is an excellent option since it is a perforated panel that allows the passage of natural light and air flow in an organic way.

Metal, being a material that can be recycled multiple times, does not lose value. 

Author: Monica Pachedo Abbud