Twisted fins are a type of architectural façade feature that are found on modern buildings, particularly multi-storey car parks.
In a nutshell...
- Twisted fins are a type of architectural façade feature
- Special brackets help twisted fins retain their shape and strength
- Spring-loaded brackets have a function similar to the suspension on a car
- Springs keep twisted fins under tension and absorb building movement
As the name suggests, aluminum fins are precisely ‘twisted’ in a factory setting to achieve the desired design intent. When installed, twisted fins can create shapes, light and shadow, and a sense of texture and movement across a building façade.
Except... actual movement is the very last thing they should do.
Twisted fins need to be kept under tension to retain their shape and strength. So, robust brackets are required.
Then it gets complicated. Modern buildings move, and multi-storey car parks move more than most under the weight and movement of vehicles. Fixed brackets without any ‘give’ would put twisted fins under too much stress and cause them to fail structurally.
What brackets do Maple use?
We use special ‘spring-loaded’ brackets – with a function similar to the suspension on a car.
The stainless-steel springs ‘pull’ the fins towards the fixed bracket, keeping them under tension, while absorbing any building movement. The system is also ideal for exposed locations, where strong winds can cause the fins to move or bend.
Submit new questions
Would you like to see your questions answered? Submit them to us and we'll let you know when we've found the answer.