Interlock cladding: an innovative design technology

Interlocking cladding is a new cladding technique that can be added to any building fa?ade to provide an element of modernity and sophistication and even create a dramatic look. This technology is mostly used in in-wall and soffit applications where the panels are installed on a wide variety of surfaces.

It provides a platform for architects and interior designers to experiment with new looks using these panels that can be placed horizontally, vertically, and also diagonally.

What is interlock cladding?

Interlock cladding is an innovative and contemporary wall solution. It is a design profile that is usually used on buildings that want to give off a modern vibe. They are suitable for soffit and wall cladding purposes.

It is a wall cladding system installed with a ventilated air space. Interlocked panels are laid on a metal framework fixed to the supporting surface. The panels are connected by an interlocking groove that gives the elegant appearance of a recessed joint. They are fixed onto the framework with the help of concealed fasteners which are present on the inside edge of the groove.

Types of interlock cladding

Interlock cladding is classified into types based on different specifications. 

Metal: they are available in several metal options

  • Aluminum PVDF coated
  • Copper
  • Zinc
  • Steel 
  • Thickness: the panels are available in varying thicknesses
  • 0.7/0.8 mm
  • 0.6/0.8mm
  • 0.55mm
  • 1mm

Benefits of interlock cladding

Interlock cladding?has become a highly popular design option?today among building owner who want to create something that is modern with uncluttered and clean lines. This cladding technique also offers several benefits that have ?helped it become a preferred choice among builders, architects, and designers.

Strength

The interlock cladding system employs the use of the tongue and groove concept. This ensures that all the panels that are placed adjacent to each other on the sub-surface are joined together firmly at the interlocking joint with the help of the fasteners that are hidden by the joints giving it a smooth finish. The joints are strong and can withstand extreme fluctuations in climatic conditions. Also, the fasteners are concealed in the interlocked niches and thus they are protected from the natural elements.

Usually, the cladding systems remain well protected from the natural phenomena but when the fasteners and mental screws come in direct contact with the weathering elements, they get damaged to some great extent. In fact, most of the architects complain about this one drawback of the cladding technologies which did not come up any solution until, the concealed interlock cladding system came to the scene.

Universal appeal

Interlock cladding has been successfully used for wall facades and soffits. The seamless appearance of the wall where this system is applied, appeals to the aesthetic taste of many builders who want to offer a unique design concept to their clients. Also, the ease of installation of these prefabricated panels that are easily joined with the help of the interlocks makes them a convenient option for builders.

This feature along with the fact they are available in varied designs, patterns, and colours provides professionals associated with the construction industry such as the builders and architects a free reign to their imagination and a wide range of possibilities for the discerning customer who is always on the lookout for trendy and modern looking designs that are not only great to look at but also offer benefits such as easy to maintain, can withstand extreme temperature variations and are long-lasting.

Contemporary style

The desire to create a new exterior that is different from the rest and creates its own niche has made the use of the interlock cladding system so popular. The stunning exteriors of the upcoming buildings has created a sense of excitement not only among architects and designers as they get to design and create spaces that are modern yet have universal appeal, but also among homeowners and owners of commercial spaces who want their home or office to be unique.

Features of interlocking cladding

  • Non-combustible
  • Versatility in design and application
  • Can be used for soffit and in-wall cladding
  • Can be used on different types of surfaces
  • Add aesthetic appeal with their concealed fixtures

Conclusion

The new innovations in cladding techniques offer us endless choices in creating structures that are sleek and contemporary and a class apart. Interlock cladding is one such option that has become the preferred choice of people today.