Avoid costly delays and design errors in aluminium facade shop drawings. Learn the 5 most common mistakes and how to fix them with expert tips.
🏗️ Introduction
Creating precise aluminium facade shop drawings is crucial for the successful execution of curtain wall systems, cladding, and architectural facades. Inaccuracies at this stage can lead to on-site delays, clashes, and expensive redesigns. In this article, we highlight the top 5 mistakes to avoid when preparing shop drawings for aluminium facade projects.
⚠️ 1. Incomplete Connection and Bracket Details
One of the most overlooked areas in shop drawings is connection detailing—anchors, brackets, and joint fixings.
Problem: Vague or missing bracket designs can result in improper installation or failed inspections.
Solution:
✅ Always include sectional views of brackets, screws, and anchors.
✅ Specify materials, load capacity, and tolerances.
📌 Pro Tip: Use exploded 3D views if possible to visualize connections more clearly.
⚠️ 2. Ignoring Thermal Movement and Expansion Gaps
Aluminium expands with temperature changes. Not accounting for movement can lead to panel warping or joint failure.
Problem: Shop drawings that don’t account for movement and structural drift.
Solution:
✅ Include clear expansion joint locations in vertical and horizontal sections.
✅ Detail flexible sealants and sliding connections.
⚠️ 3. Poor Coordination with Structural and MEP Elements
Facade elements often conflict with HVAC ducts, electrical conduits, or structural beams.
Problem: Lack of coordination leads to installation clashes and last-minute revisions.
Solution:
✅ Integrate Revit or BIM modeling to run clash detection.
✅ Collaborate with structural and MEP teams early in the design stage.
⚠️ 4. Missing Water Drainage and Ventilation Details
Weatherproofing is critical in aluminium facades, especially in rainy or coastal regions.
Problem: No drainage path, weep holes, or flashing in shop drawings.
Solution:
✅ Use rain-screen principles in your designs.
✅ Always show weep holes, pressure-equalization chambers, and waterproof membranes.
⚠️ 5. Using Generic Details Without Customization
Every building is unique. Reusing facade details without adapting them can lead to mismatches in performance and compliance.
Problem: Copy-pasted DWG or Revit files without project-specific adjustments.
Solution:
✅ Adjust every detail based on project location, wind load, and fixing method.
✅ Refer to regional codes like EN13830, ASTM E330, or local facade standards.
🎯 Conclusion
High-quality aluminium facade shop drawings reduce risks, save time, and ensure a smooth transition from design to construction. Avoiding these 5 critical mistakes will help you deliver professional and reliable facade documentation every time.
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