Architects are leveraging the expertise of metal fabricators to produce unique traditional to modern architectural designs. The different types of metal, such as steel, magnesium, nickel, iron, and aluminum, can be shaped and reshaped through metal fabrication processes. As a result, high-quality staircases, doors, gates, balustrades, sculptures, public restroom stalls, and other interior and exterior furnishings are created..
The good thing is that metals provide versatility, so you can produce custom designs that suit your artistic vision. Additionally, they offer more stability and strength to architectural structures while maintaining a striking visual appeal.
Read on for more information on how to incorporate various types of metalwork into architecture:
1. Metal Wall Panels
Facades determine the visual identity of an architectural structure. You can use different materials to create a building facade, including concrete, stone, glass, timber, and brick. However, metal facades have become a top choice for property owners due to the excellent properties of metal.
While metal facades are mainly used for commercial and institutional architecture, they can offer a contemporary rhythmic aesthetic to transform your residential building. Typical metals used include aluminum, steel, stainless steel, zinc, and copper.
Your choice of material may be influenced by climatic conditions, the type of adjacent materials you want to complement, the structural system, or budget. For instance, you can choose aluminum if you want a lightweight decorative element. Also, it’s rust-resistant and ideal if you’re in a corrosive environment.
Fortunately, these metals can be easily curved using relevant metal fabrication processes to create dynamic designs. Therefore, it’s best to work with a reputable metal fabrication company for better results. For instance, Metals at KNS can offer end-to-end innovation and creativity for your architectural project.
Here are some benefits of using metal cladding panels:
- They protect your internal building materials from harsh weather conditions
- They promote sustainability since they can be recycled
- They require little maintenance or repair since most metals are resistant to changes in temperature
- Therefore, you’d want to furnish the look and feel of your architectural structure using metal wall panels
2. Fixtures
You can use different types of metals to create house fixtures, such as windows, doors, or kitchen shelves. Architects incorporate metal fixtures in buildings to recreate an aesthetic feel, narrow sightlines, and provide extended durability. Notably, industrial setups prefer steel for shelving since it can support heavyweight.
Also, stainless steel is rust-resistant and is recommended for places like kitchens where corrosion may be high. Unlike wooden shelves, the smooth finish provides an easy-to-clean surface. Additionally, the metal can be polished with state-of-the-art finishes to improve the visual appeal of your home or office. Actually, with metal, you can customize fixtures to complement various contemporary and classic styles.
3. Metal Roofs
Today, many people are more interested in metal roofing than traditional timber alternatives due to its benefits. The metal choices include steel, aluminum, zinc, and copper. The design opportunities add distinction to architectural structures.
Ideally, roofing metal is malleable and lightweight, so it can be stamped into different shapes to create intricate roofing designs. For instance, you can consider a standing seam metal roof with a highly visible steep slope to improve property appeal. Also, paint, texture options, and other high-quality coatings can be used to maintain vibrance.
Here are some other advantages of metal roofs:
- Longevity: They can last between 40 to 70 years, depending on the quality of the metal.
- Energy efficient: Metal roofs reflect high amounts of solar radiation, reducing roof surface radiant heat. This also helps lower cooling costs.
- Eco-friendly: Metal roofs can be recycled at the end of their useful life.
- Durability: Metal roofs can sustain adverse weather conditions like wind gusts and don’t corrode. Therefore, you can save on high and constant maintenance costs.
In light of that, you’d want to use high-quality metal for roofing to achieve a more stylish and modern architectural appearance.
4. Metal Railings
Metal railings are an essential part of architecture and have the potential to transform your balcony, staircase, or outdoor deck into a cozy and beautiful enclosure. The most common metal used for balcony or stairs railings is stainless steel. It has replaced wood which is becoming a less popular choice for property owners because of its shorter life span and frequent maintenance. Steel offers greater strength and stability and has high corrosion resistance.
The good thing is that metal is highly customizable, allowing you to add style and elegance to your project. Therefore, you can ask your designer to create a custom design that suits your property interior for a stunning appearance. You can match the color of metal railings with your doors, windows, and other elements of the building facade. Alternatively, you may opt for a contrasting color if you want to make the railing a focal point.
Conclusion
Metalwork has become an integral part of architecture. Various types of metalwork can be used to create intricate architectural components and designs to revamp your property’s interior and exterior. Above are some options for your consideration. Altogether, ensure you incorporate the type of metal and design that matches your architectural style.