Modern architecture and construction are tasked with finding solutions, such as horizontal insulated metal panels (IMPs), that combine the best of aesthetics and performance.
These single-component, complete exterior wall systems are visually appealing while delivering a range of building envelope benefits, which is why they have become a material of choice in multi-story construction projects.
“Code compliant, lightweight, incredibly efficient, and easy to install are just some of the reasons that make IMPs the go-to wall component for multi-story structures,” said Green Span Profiles Brian N. Jaks, P.E., Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “Add in that all our horizontal profiles are available in a multitude of different colors and there isn’t a multi-story building project in the country that would not benefit from using IMPs.”
Horizontal IMPs are cladding solutions that consist of two metal sheets bonded to an insulating core material, typically made of polyurethane or polyisocyanurate foam.
These panels are designed to provide excellent thermal insulation, weather resistance, and structural integrity, making them ideal for use in multi-story structures where energy efficiency, durability, and aesthetics are of paramount importance.
Among the numerous advantages that make horizontal IMPs an ideal choice for cladding in multi-story construction:
Coordination with the project's design team is crucial when using horizontally installed IMPs.
Failure to coordinate can lead to design inconsistencies, delays, and cost overruns.
It's essential to collaborate closely to ensure that the IMPs align with the overall architectural vision and that details such as openings, joints, and connections are properly integrated.
Proper performance of horizontal IMP wall systems may hinge on an understanding of the interaction between the floor system and wall supports, which are typically tube steel supports or steel stud walls.
Understanding the interaction between the wall supports (such as steel stud walls or tube steel supports) and the floor system is key to proper IMP performance.
Floor deflections, which are the downward movements of the floors under load, can potentially transfer stress to the IMP system, leading to damage or distortion of the cladding.
To mitigate this, proper consideration of the building's structural behavior and load distribution is essential.
Remember, that floor deflections are a natural response to the applied loads and are expected in any building. However, they can have implications for the entire structure, including the cladding systems like IMPs that are used on the exterior walls.
Here's a breakdown of why floor deflections matter and how they can affect the building envelope:
Using wall studs that are inboard of the slab edge is a common practice in multi-story construction, especially in regions where building codes and regulations stipulate stringent fire safety requirements.
This practice is aimed at providing what is known as a "fire stop" or "fire barrier" and in multi-story buildings it can add benefits such as fire containment, fire compartmentalization, and protection of evacuation routes.
While “inboarding” wall studs offer significant fire safety benefits, architects and designers must also consider the potential challenges associated with floor deflections, as discussed earlier.
In this construction method, the stud system will deflect along with the floor, which can then transfer the load to the IMPs which are not designed with expansion joints and usually can only accommodate up to one-quarter inch of floor deflection.
One solution with wall studs that are inboard of the slab is to place vertical IMPs at the midpoint (or even more frequently if possible) of the column spacing – preventing a continuous wall column-to-wall column run – to help relieve some of the stress.
The preferred solution when working with horizontal IMPs in multi-story construction is the use of bypass stud or tube steel construction – called outboard.
This approach limits the transfer of loads to the wall framing and IMP system. The bypass construction method isolates the IMP system from the floor movement, ensuring the panels' structural integrity and aesthetics are preserved.
When this method is chosen, additional firestop solutions will be needed at each floor location, but building designers often find the performance and weatherproofing advantages make the trade-off worthwhile.
Prior to embarking on a multi-story construction project involving horizontal IMPs, architects, project designers, and builders should engage in detailed discussions with their IMP provider.
These discussions should cover:
Contact Green Span Profiles today for the highest-quality vertical and horizontal IMPS manufactured in America and perfect for your multi-story structure.