Cassette Panels systems are hook-on metal cladding products, which are functional for external and internal applications in different construction projects. These building materials are highly versatile as they feature multiple direction installation systems and can be applied to various substances, including glass, concrete, plywood, and aluminum claddings. Cassette claddings with a modern appearance are suitable for horizontal and vertical constructions on low-rise to high-rise facilities for both new and renovation buildings. These building materials are bent and fixed with concealed clips and top hats to metal frames which are generally made from aluminum.
Cassette panels systems, which are used for the building’s cladding, are made from the development of different components which are used in large areas. The production process features cost-effective assembly since it is considerably easy and fast. Moreover, sheet metals are utilized in these cladding systems to reduce the cost alternative to any other building facades, including Aluminum composite panels systems which are also practical and beautiful building materials for more current projects. However, unlike traditional sheet metal facades, cassette panels do not require caulking or silicon during the installation. Thanks to the patented mounting system these building materials feature, they can quickly and easily snap into a particular area, moving from top to bottom. For additional flair, builders and designers utilize pre-fabricated trims and flashings that can fit into any channel. Cassette cladding systems offer an innovative building facade solution to create a flat and modern appearance. These building materials are installed on a suitable substructure and create futuristic visual effects that are perfect for commercial facilities and administrative buildings. It is essential to note that cassette panel systems are specified for building designs that demand larger widths or lengths than regular metal cladding panels.
Advantages of Cassette Panels Systems
Cassette panels systems have proved their value and functionality as they have passed the test of time. Their popularity is due to many advantages that they provide, which are :
Structural Stability of Cassette Panels Systems
Cassette panels systems feature heavy gauge metal materials and can be installed with aluminum clips. They take metal top had substructure and give the building perfect structural stability. Builders utilize the interlocking installing method, which consists of applying the cassettes onto a galvanized top hat and then fixing them firmly on the base element to increase the stability of the construction cladding system.
Cassette Panel Cladding Systems are Elegant
Architects appreciate cassette Panel cladding systems since they are smooth and modern-looking building materials that feature a flat appearance while providing beautiful details.
Sustainability and Durability
Since cassette claddings are considered Rains Screen Materials, they are naturally waterproof without any additional mastics and sealants. They allow rainwater to flow without entering the cladding structure and prevent damaging its construction. Additionally, these building materials can last for 50 to 100 years without requiring extra maintenance.
Economical Building Materials
Cassette panel systems are considered economical building materials since they create minimum wastage, and like aluminum composite panels (ACM), they are fully recyclable. Most metal building materials manufacturers develop cassette claddings from recycled materials and sheet metals.
Basics of Horizontal Cassette Panels Systems
Horizontal cassette panels are installed and mounted from bottom to top as they are attached indirectly in concealed sections. This way, the builder can have the freedom to create all stylistic aspects that architects design with these metal cladding materials. Horizontal systems often have 25mm depth and a specified gap of 20mm diameter. These diameter values exist equally on the exact other side of the cladding, with the rail utilized for fastening and forming the building facade. These panels are suitable for external wall systems with a length of up to 3,000mm. Additionally, the cladding grid can be installed equivalent to the client’s needs and demands.
Installation Process
The installation of cassette panel systems requires constant establishment and positioning of elements that are used in the cladding framework. The framework includes exact measurements and quantity of panels with their length, width, and center-to-center height. Standard cassette metal claddings consist of an up-stand at the top, and they are fixed to the framework with aluminum clips. They also have another up-stand at the bottom located on the previous boards with pins. For cladding panels that are longer than 1.5m horizontally, slotting is better for more substantial fixtures and expansion tolerance.
Before starting the installation of cassette panels cladding systems, a layout with details should be drawn by the construction contractor to:
- Establish the framework elements positionings
- Measure and calculate the exact quantities and assets
- Define the fastening supplies, including clips and screws positions with framework rails
The vertical and horizontal joint standard is 20mm comprehensive, and there should be an oblong hole at each end of the panel’s top upstand. Fixing clips and suppliers are designed and tested to meet the performance and building design criteria. Clips often have dual functionality:
- Lift-up resistance of the cassette panels claddings
- Free expansion allowing for the metal