Pre-Crimped Frameless Cladding System

Introduction

The Pre-Crimped Frameless Cladding System is an installation technique developed to present architectural mesh as a clean, uninterrupted façade, without visible frames or fixings. The objective of the system is simple: to allow the mesh pattern itself to become the architectural feature, with all supporting elements concealed behind the plane of the façade. This technique is most commonly used with rigid, pre-crimped woven wire meshes, where the wire is crimped in both directions to create a stable, self-supporting panel. By folding the mesh edges and clamping them discreetly, the system removes the need for surface-mounted frames while still achieving a taut, controlled appearance.

Applications

Pre-crimped frameless cladding is typically used on external façades where visual clarity is a priority. It is well suited to projects where architects want the mesh to read as a continuous surface rather than a series of framed panels.

Typical applications include façade cladding, solar screening, window coverage, and architectural feature screens. The system can be fixed directly back to a structure or installed as a secondary layer, either standing proud of the building or hung from vertical cables.

Because all fixings are concealed, the technique is often chosen for projects where clean lines and minimal visual interference are essential.

How the System Works

The system relies on folding the edges of a rigid pre-crimped mesh panel at right angles. These folded returns are designed to sit either side of a T-section or similar support profile.

Once positioned, the folded mesh edges are clamped from behind, securing the panel without any fixings passing through the visible face of the mesh. The flat of the T-section is then fixed back to the supporting structure, vertical cables, or secondary steelwork.

The folding detail can be applied on two sides, typically vertically, or on all four sides depending on the design intent. While four-sided folding creates a fully concealed perimeter, it is not always necessary and can be used selectively depending on panel size and fixing strategy.

Technical Considerations

This technique is specifically intended for rigid, pre-crimped architectural meshes. It is not suitable for naturally tensioned systems such as cable mesh or spiral mesh, where tension is introduced by unrolling or stretching the material.

A critical design consideration is allowing sufficient tolerance within the folded edges. The mesh is folded slightly undersized relative to the aperture so that a small amount of tension can be introduced during fixing. This controlled tension removes the mesh’s natural deflection and eliminates the need for additional support bars.

The supporting T-section must always be fixed back to a structural element, whether that is a building façade, secondary steelwork, or a vertical cable system. The system depends on this support to maintain flatness and long-term stability.

Installation Process

Installation begins with the fabrication of the mesh panels, including precise folding of the edges to create the right-angle returns. Accuracy at this stage is essential, as the folded dimensions determine how effectively tension can be introduced on site.

On site, panels are positioned so the folded edges locate either side of the T-section. The mesh is then clamped from behind, pulling it gently into tension and removing any inherent sag or deflection.

Once aligned, the T-section is fixed back to the supporting structure. The result is a visually clean façade where the mesh appears to float in place, with no visible fixings or framing.

On a typical façade application, around ten reasonably sized panels can be installed in a single day, depending on access and fixing conditions.

Advantages

The primary advantage of this system is visual. By hiding all fixings behind the mesh plane, the architectural pattern remains uninterrupted and visually dominant.

The system is cost-effective compared to fully bespoke framed solutions, while still delivering a refined appearance. Because it relies on rigid mesh panels, it offers predictable behaviour and minimal long-term movement once installed.

The ability to introduce a small amount of controlled tension during installation allows the mesh to appear flat and precise without additional stiffening elements.

Challenges & Pitfalls

The most common issue with this technique arises from insufficient allowance for tension. If the folded edges are manufactured too tightly, there is no room to pull the mesh flat, resulting in visible deflection.

Equally, over-tightening should be avoided, as rigid pre-crimped mesh is not designed to behave as a fully tensioned material.

Another key limitation is that this system cannot be used with naturally flexible meshes. Attempting to apply it to cable or spiral mesh will lead to poor performance and should be avoided.

As with all frameless systems, careful coordination of tolerances and supporting structure is essential. The success of the technique depends more on detailing and execution than on the mesh pattern itself.

This technique was developed to let the mesh do the talking. By folding and clamping it from behind, you remove the visual noise of frames and fixings and let the architectural pattern take centre stage.

— Andrew Campbell, Technical Director

Example Project

Pre-crimped frameless cladding has been used successfully on a wide range of façade projects where clean presentation is critical. It is particularly effective when covering glazing or acting as a secondary screen, where the mesh needs to read as a continuous surface rather than a series of discrete panels.

The technique demonstrates how rigid architectural mesh can be detailed to achieve both visual refinement and practical performance without resorting to heavy framing systems.

The pre-crimped frameless cladding system offers a clean, visually restrained way to install rigid architectural mesh without exposed fixings.

For technical advice, detailing guidance, or support specifying this system for your project, contact Locker Architectural to speak with our technical team.

Projects using this installation technique

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