Perforated Metal Panels: Specification Checklist for Architects

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A perforated metal panel specification should define the material and thickness, the hole pattern and open area, the panel size and fixing system, and the finish suited to the building's exposure. Stating these clearly in the drawings and written specification lets the fabricator quote accurately and avoids site changes. Techno Kol Uzi produces these panels to measure in its Tel Aviv factory after on-site measurement and approval of drawings.

Define the Material and Thickness

Start by naming the base metal, such as galvanized steel, stainless steel or aluminum, and the sheet thickness in millimeters. The choice affects stiffness, weight and how the panel behaves in wind. Thinner sheets are lighter but may need closer support frames to avoid waviness across large spans.

Consider the environment as well. Coastal and urban sites with high humidity call for stronger corrosion protection, and the specification should say so explicitly.

Set the Hole Pattern and Open Area

Specify the perforation shape, hole diameter, spacing and pattern orientation. The open area percentage controls how much light and air pass through and how much shade the panel casts. Ask for a sample or a shop drawing that shows the pattern at full scale, so the visual result is clear before production.

Hole shape and diameter
Center-to-center spacing
Open area percentage
Pattern direction relative to the facade

Specify Panel Size, Edges and Tolerances

Give the overall panel dimensions, the edge treatment and any folds or returns. Mark which dimensions are critical for alignment with the structure and which can vary. Note the acceptable tolerances on flatness and squareness, since perforated sheet can show slight distortion if it is cut or formed without care.

Indicate where joints and expansion gaps are required so the panels can move with temperature changes.

Detail the Fixing and Support System

Describe how panels attach to the substructure: visible or concealed fixings, frame profiles, and the spacing of supports. Check that the fixings suit the chosen metal to avoid galvanic corrosion between dissimilar materials. Show the support layout on the drawings so the installer and the engineer work from the same information.

Wind loads and building height should be checked with the project engineer. Exact load values are confirmed in the structural design, not assumed from general guidance.

Choose the Finish and Protection

Decide between hot-dip galvanizing, powder coating in a defined color, or a natural stainless finish. Each option has different maintenance needs and visual character. State the coating system and color reference, and request a sample panel for approval where color matters to the design.

Remember that cut edges and drilled holes may need touch-up or additional protection, so the specification should cover them too.

Confirm Drawings and Approval Before Production

Before fabrication, the fabricator should issue a drawing and written specification for client approval. Review the dimensions, pattern, fixing details and finish against the design intent. A clear sign-off at this stage prevents costly corrections later.

Techno Kol Uzi follows this route for every project: inquiry with photos, on-site measurement, drawing and specification, client approval, factory production, finishing and installation.

Frequently asked questions

What open area percentage is best for sun shading?

There is no single best value, because it depends on the orientation, climate and the amount of light and view required. Architects usually test a few options with samples or simulations before fixing the percentage in the specification.

Should I specify galvanized steel or stainless steel?

Galvanized steel is strong and cost-effective for many exterior applications, while stainless steel offers a clean finish with high corrosion resistance. The right choice depends on the environment, budget and visual goals of the project.

Do perforated panels need a fixed frame behind them?

Most installations do, because sheet alone can bend or wave under wind load. The frame spacing should be confirmed with the structural engineer for each project.

How do I ensure the color matches my design?

Request a physical sample coated in the specified finish and approve it before full production. Reference the color by a named standard in the written specification.

Common mistakes to avoid

A common mistake is describing the pattern only in words without a scaled drawing, which leads to visual surprises on site. Another is ignoring the mix of metals in the fixings, which can cause corrosion over time.

Our recommendation

Request a full-scale sample of the pattern and finish before approving the drawings, and have the structural engineer confirm the frame spacing early. This small step catches most issues while changes are still inexpensive.

Summary

A complete specification covers material, pattern, size, fixings and finish, and each should be approved on drawings before production begins.

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