Architectural Sheet Metal Glossary of Terms
- Single-Skin Metal Wall Panels – Formed metal panels used as exterior or interior cladding and available in a range of profiles, finishes and orientations.
- Insulated Metal Panels (IMP) – Factory-produced panels that combine exterior and interior metal skins with an insulating core, allowing the panel assembly to provide cladding and thermal-envelope functions within one system.
- Aluminum Composite Material (ACM) / Metal Composite Material (MCM) Panels – Composite architectural panels commonly selected for flat, precise exterior surfaces and design flexibility. ACM refers specifically to aluminum composite material, while MCM is the broader industry term that can include other metal skins.
- Concealed-Fastener Metal Wall Panels – Panel systems designed so the primary attachment is concealed from view, supporting a cleaner finished appearance.
- Exposed-Fastener Metal Wall Panels – Panel systems where fasteners remain visible at the exterior surface. These systems are commonly used where project requirements favor a straightforward panel configuration.
- Screen Walls – Metal panel assemblies used to screen rooftop equipment or other building components while integrating them into the overall architectural appearance.
- Interior Wall Liners – Metal liner panels used on interior wall surfaces in applicable commercial, industrial and specialty building environments.
- Architectural Steel Wall Panels – Steel panel systems available in different profiles, gauges, orientations and finishes for commercial and industrial applications.
- Renovation & Retrofit Wall Panels – Metal wall-panel systems can also be incorporated into existing buildings when the structure, substrate, project design and selected assembly are appropriate for retrofit installation. Schena’s source materials identify single-skin, insulated, exposed-fastener, concealed-fastener and interior liner systems as relevant wall-panel categories, along with ACM panels and screen walls.
