Optimizing the Inside: The Benefits of Selecting High-Performing Interior Framing Systems

When constructing or renovating a building, interior framing systems play a crucial role in ensuring the functionality and design aesthetics of the inside of the building. It is important for architects, contractors, glaziers and building owners to understand the benefits and impact of incorporating high-performing interior framing systems in a project. In this article, we explore some of the key advantages of incorporating high-performing architectural aluminum systems throughout the interior of the building.

Durability

One of the primary benefits of interior framing systems is the robustness and durability they provide. Through incorporating high-quality solutions and materials, interior framing helps ensure the building can withstand over time, contributing to its overall durability and safety for occupants. 

Kawneer’s InFrame® Interior Framing System brings the proven performance and expertise of our exterior framing products to the interior. With a 2″ (50.8mm) sightline and 6″ (152.4mm) depth, this solution can be configured to meet various project requirements while maintaining its sturdiness and adaptability. View the product flyer to learn more.

Design Flexibility and Aesthetics

Whether in an open-concept layout or a more compartmentalized space, interior framing systems also offer design flexibility, allowing architects and building designers to construct and customize the interior according to their design preferences. This adaptability is valuable in a variety of commercial applications where unique design elements and functional requirements are essential, including projects in the education, healthcare and retail sectors. Interior framing systems have the ability to incorporate a variety of door configurations to further support design flexibility. 

Our  Trifab® VersaGlaze® 451 and 451T Framing Systems are designed for performance and fabrication flexibility and offer a variety of applications, including interiors. These systems offer even more options for design flexibility, including front-set glass or structural silicone glazing (SSG).  

Additionally, Kawneer’s InFrame® Interior Framing System’s wraparound perimeter profiles deliver clean lines and eliminate the need to finish drywall terminations. This solution also transitions seamlessly from fixed framing to operable doors, providing enhanced design flexibility. Further, an optional 4″ tall sill member is available for a greater range of design possibilities for specific project requirements and architectural styles.

Efficient Installation

Modern interior framing systems are designed for efficient system installation, including screw spline. This method of installation enables simpler installation, better alignment and pre-assembly in the shop or at the job site, which in turn leads to energy and cost savings. Our InFrame® Interior Framing System allows for screw spline installation. 

Enhanced Insulation and Energy Efficiency

Properly framed interiors are proven to help contribute to better insulation and energy efficiency throughout the inside of a building. High-performing solutions for interior framing help maintain consistent indoor temperatures and reduce the need for excessive heating or cooling, leading to lower energy bills and a more environmentally conscious building. 

Improved Acoustic Performance

Acoustic performance is an increasing priority for modern architectural design and is becoming a recurring requirement in project specifications. Acoustic performance refers to the transference of sound from one area to another or between adjacent interior areas. This demonstrates the amount of sound that is reduced by a barrier, particularly relevant to windows, doors and walls within the space. Sound Transmission Class (STC) is used to rate the sound reduction performance of a barrier.   

Our Trifab® VersaGlaze® 450, 451 and 451T Framing Systems offer a variety of infill options and can be paired with insulated glass or acoustic films to achieve enhanced sound insulation and help reduce noise transmission between rooms. This is especially important in multifamily residences, offices, and other environments where privacy and quiet are valued.

Sustainability Impact

Sustainable methods and practices have always been at the heart of Kawneer, as our systems are designed with holistic sustainability in mind. Utilizing eco-friendly materials, including low-carbon aluminum, can help reduce the overall environmental impact of a facade. Aluminum delivers building longevity along with a wide range of design and finish options, offering architects creative freedom. Its high strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance and formability also provide key advantages over alternative materials.  

Kawneer is committed to product transparency and has provided sustainability documentation for its products. Our InFrame® Interior Framing System’s Product Green Guide, Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) label and Material Transparency Summary (MTS) are available on our website. 

Finish Options

Selecting the right finishing touch for your interior framing system greatly impacts the look and design aesthetics of the interior along with the system’s overall performance. Kawneer provides a variety of architectural aluminum finishes that enhance, protect and endure. Browse our Finishes brochure to learn more.  

The InFrame® Interior Framing System is available in anodized finishes and painted finishes in a variety of colors. All Kawneer’s anodized finishes meet the requirements of the Aluminum Association DAF-45 and AAMA 611 for anodized architectural aluminum. Our painted finishes meet or exceed the AAMA 2604 specification.  

Conclusion 

Interior framing brings broad expanses of glass into interior spaces on both new and retrofit construction projects and offers a variety of benefits that help enhance design flexibility, energy efficiency and more. By understanding these advantages, architects, contractors and building owners can make informed decisions that contribute to the success and longevity of a building. Whether you are designing a new building or renovating an existing one, selecting sustainable, energy-efficient and high-quality interior framing systems is an important decision. 

Browse our products that can be installed in the interior of a building, including our InFrame® Interior Framing System, Trifab® VersaGlaze® Framing Systems and more.