Offering solar relief, shade and beauty

Just when you think there is nothing new under the sun, a design trend proves otherwise. Perforated metal-popular for wall cladding, stair rail infill panels, partitions and enclosures-is now emerging as a go-to material to turn down the heat.

Architects and builders of hospitals, retail stores, office buildings and other commercial structures needing solar relief are looking to perforated metal for shade and beauty. Its popularity can be traced to growing pressure to gain LEED certification, or the desire to incorporate a custom feature that makes a design statement.

Most recognize that adding perforated metal to a building exterior serves function and aesthetics. Solar impact is substantially reduced, especially when screening glass curtainwalls, and the building is enriched by a façade element that becomes an integral part of the building design.

While stainless steel or powder-coated steel are used for sunshades and canopies, aluminum is by far the most popular choice. Lighter in weight, aluminum requires a less robust support system and can be cantilevered. Regardless of the metal type, the overall appeal of perforated metal is its variety of hole sizes and gauges, percentage of open area, high strength-to-weight ratio and upscale appearance.