I-Facade: The intelligent subframe for your rainscreen ventilated façade (RVF)

At IPEX, we understand that the safety and efficiency of a project hinges on the choice of the right construction principles. With our I-Facade system, we offer modular, thermally optimized, and statically approved solutions for every challenge in modern façade construction.

Why IPEX I-Facade is the first choice for professionals

1. Maximum thermal efficiency (U-value optimization)

In times of stringent energy efficiency standards such as the Passivhaus standard, a standard aluminium subframe is often no longer sufficient. IPEX I-Facade focuses on innovative thermal decoupling:

• Minimization of point thermal bridges: By using special Thermostop isolators and thermally decoupled wall brackets, we significantly reduce the χ-value.

• Material selection: In addition to high-performance aluminium, we offer solutions in stainless steel (A2/A4) with much lower thermal conductivity than pure aluminium, dramatically improving the building's energy balance.

2. Structural safety and flexibility

Every façade must withstand enormous wind loads and the dead weight of the cladding. Our system is based on the proven principle of fixed and sliding points:

• Fixed points (Fixed Points): Safely transfer the weight of the façade panels into the substrate.

• Sliding points (Sliding Points): Allow natural thermal expansion of the profiles (dilatation) without causing stresses or cracks in the façade.

• Versatility: Our "Helping Hand" wall brackets are available in more than 126 variants and effortlessly compensate for construction tolerances from 40 mm to > 300 mm.

3. Aesthetics without compromise

Whether you want visible fastening or invisible (concealed) mechanical fixing – I-Facade provides the solution:

• Material diversity: Compatible with HPL, fibre cement, ceramics, natural stone, and even PV modules.

• In-house powder coating: With > 2,500 RAL colours in our own facility, we ensure that profiles and fixings perfectly match your façade – with the shortest lead times on the market.

Technical specifications: Subframe systems for RVF

Systematics of load transfer and thermal decoupling in façade planning

The subframe forms the structural link between the load-bearing exterior wall and the façade cladding. In RVF system planning, mechanical safety, compensation of construction tolerances, and energetic optimization of the building envelope are paramount.

1. Structural principle: Fixed and sliding supports

To prevent clamping forces due to thermally induced length changes in profiles, I-Facade relies on strict separation of fixing points:

• Fixed points (Fixed Points): Transfer vertical dead loads of the cladding and horizontal wind loads.

• Sliding points (Sliding Points): Vertical elongated holes in the wall brackets allow temperature-induced dilatation of aluminium or stainless steel profiles, while simultaneously transferring horizontal wind pressure and suction forces.

2. Energetic optimization: χ-value minimization

Point thermal bridges from wall brackets significantly influence the effective U-value of the wall construction.

• Thermostop isolators: Polymer-based separation elements (e.g. polypropylene or PVC) are used between wall bracket and substrate for thermal decoupling.

• Material selection: Aluminium (EN AW 6063 T66) is standard for cost efficiency, but stainless steel brackets (A2/A4) offer advantages due to lower thermal conductivity for Passivhaus requirements.

3. Profile geometries and mechanical fixing

The I-Facade programme includes a wide range of extruded profiles for various cladding materials such as fibre cement, HPL, ceramics, or metal cassettes:

• L- and T-profiles: Primary vertical load-bearing profiles for visible (rivet/screw) or concealed fixings.

• Omega- and Z-profiles: Special profiles for low build-up heights or as secondary structure for horizontal orientation.

• Concealed clip fixing: For heavy panel materials such as natural stone, adjustable clips ensure precise joint alignment.

4. Engineering support and compliance

Subframe design is based on project-specific structural proofs and building physics calculations:

• Wind load calculation: Determination of loads per DIN EN 1991-1-4 to establish bracket spacing.

• Structural analysis: Calculation according to Eurocode 9 (aluminium structures) considering fatigue and load capacity.

• Certification: All system components are CE-marked and comply with relevant ETAs (European Technical Assessments).
  

Planning support: For engineers and façade planners, IPEX provides detailed CAD details, BIM objects, and assistance with preliminary sizing and on-site inspections.