Infill Panels
Infill panels, usually made of metal, are commonly used in a wide variety of architectural projects. The term “Infill Panel” refers to an item that fills in an area to create a division of space for any number of reasons. Typically, infill panels will have a frame of either the same material, or a different style of material to give it strength and rigidity for mounting into place. Infill panels are non-load bearing but do lend support to the overall structure to which they are applied. Metal is often the material of choice for infill panels as it is strong, little to no maintenance, long lasting, and light weight if aluminum.
Applications
Railings
Infill panels are used between posts of guard railing to create the barrier for fall protection on stairs, balconies, and walkways. Perforated infill panels, woven wire panels, or laser cut panels offer interesting ways to fill the space between posts.
Wall Cladding
Infill panels are often installed on building exteriors as a curtain wall, a rainscreen, or support for other cladding material. They may be solid, or more decorative as in perforated panels or a laser cut design.
Security
Metal infill panels provide a great way to add security to areas that need that. They are relatively light weight and can be added or removed as desired. They let light and air through and can be designed with creativity to enhance the space and the look of the building.
Parking Structures
Perforated metal infill panels have gained a lot of popularity for use on the exterior of parking structures. They allow for airflow and offers safety from within, all while screening the view from the exterior and providing a unique and interesting design for the building.
Ceiling Panels
There are many ways to cover a ceiling to hide the joists or trusses and utilities that run in ceilings. One way is with the use of metal infill panels, especially when a more industrial look is desired. A perforated, or a woven wire pattern works well for ceiling panels.
Canopies and Sunshades
Infill panels are a great way to fill in the spaces of the support structure for canopies and sunshades. They offer shade, design, and permanency.
Exterior shelters and Privacy Fencing
Bus shelters, Park and Ride waiting areas, Band shells, Parks, Zoos, Playgrounds, Residential housing are all areas where infill panels are used.
MATERIALS and TYPES
Aluminum is valued for it being the lightest weight construction metal, providing good strength, and with anodizing or painting will look great for years and years. Where a perforated or laser cut design infill panel is desired, aluminum is an excellent choice
Stainless steel is heavy and robust, and valued for excellent resistance to corrosiveness. For infill panels with a woven wire or a welded wire mesh, stainless is an excellent choice. These panels will have a U-trim piece around the edges and welded together to create a sturdy panel for the project.
Weathering steel adds a natural or rustic flavor to a site and is an alternative for perforated or laser cut infill panels.
Copper. Let’s be honest. While too rich for most budgets, produces a striking look that will leave a lasting impression. If you have the money, go for it. Or choose a hybrid of a woven wire with both stainless and copper for quite the fancy look!
Galvanized works great when looking for a lower cost and more industrial look. Many styles of woven and welded wire in various gauges available.
We at Astro Metal Craft have been designing and manufacturing this large range of infill panels for architectural products since 2008. Architects and construction project managers count on us for input on design and rely on our in-house fabrication to produce and deliver quality products on time every time.