In a world where the construction market offers so many different types of façade choices, one panel continues to stand out as an age-old panel system. The flatlock panel is over a century old and was created by true metal artisans back in the day. Since then, the panel has evolved somewhat, but it is an innovative and aesthetically pleasing cladding solution. The panel continues to gain in popularity with its sleek and seamless appearance as a typical rainscreen solution.
Flatlock panels are characterized by their smooth, flat surface with interlocking seams. The panels are typically installed with a concealed stainless steel clip to allow for expansion and contraction of the metal panel. At the same time, some manufacturers also offer an integral clip with slotted holes to similarly allow for expansion and contraction. Either fastening design method provides the same appearance; however, the clip may be the better option if the wall has a lot of geometry. The real beauty of this product is that it can be fabricated with several different substrates, giving numerous choices. Whether it is anodized or pre-painted aluminum, painted steel, galvanized steel, copper, titanium, or zinc, all can be manufactured quickly to meet the design criteria, and all substrates offer sustainable features. The painted products are becoming more prevalent with a wide variety of color options, including wood grain and other finishes. The materials are typically light-gauge products, and the panel may have distortion in the wall assembly, which offers a modern architectural beauty to the façade.
The installation typically requires some plywood wall with underlayment or waterproof membrane behind the panel system. Flashing details need to be properly installed around penetrations and transitions, and it is highly recommended to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure a proper installation.
The panels’ orientation is typically rectangular, and sizes can be customized to meet the design intent. They are typically installed horizontally but can easily be installed vertically or diagonally. Although the rectangular shape is most widely used, it can also be fabricated in a diamond-shaped pattern. This offers one additional method that can totally change the appearance of the design process.
The panel can be manufactured with hand tools and light gauge equipment in a sheet metal shop. However, in a world pushing towards automation, manufacturers utilize automated notching and forming equipment to ensure high tolerance and precision fabrication of the product.
To sum up, flatlock panels truly combine artisanry and modern technology to meet any traditional or contemporary design concept. Their sleek look, longevity, and sustainable features make them desirable for the design community.
Mike Wallace is the president of AmeriClad.