With the advent of computer aided drafting (CAD), the accurate detailing of different shapes and surfaces is possible. The Flexene system gives the architect or designer the opportunity to easily create features or a complete environment with curved walls, ceilings and surfaces.
The Flexene system provides the installer with a choice of methods for accurately setting out, installing and finishing even the most complex shapes, forms and surfaces. Flexene has been specifically developed to solve the problems associated with constructing compound curved surfaces.
The materials and techniques developed increase the ability of providing functional and viable solutions to meet a multitude of design concepts.
Flexene can be finished with a variety of applied coatings to suit its use and desired effect.
Flexene is a bendable substrate requiring a structural framework to support the sheeting during and after construction. Some applications can be individually engineered to be self supporting (refer to the self supporting section of the Flexene manual).
The simplest form of structural framework is flat timber sheathing (ie. Plywood, hardboard, osb, mdf, timber or particleboard) fixed to studs or joists. This
allows Flexene to be directly fixed over the timber sheathing either flat surfaced or deformed to form bumps, ripples, bulges or the like.
This method is a simple, quick and cost effective method to produce a variety of shapes and forms. Generally in using this method the Flexene sheet is distorted to form the required shape or surface therefore cutting and joining (tailoring) is at a minimum.
Flexene is unlike conventional building systems in that the Flexene sheet primarily forms the integral substrate for the application of a reinforced render or plaster shell. This shell can then be finished as required.
Although the Flexene system is the simplest, quickest and most economical method available to produce an infinite variety of shapes and forms, care and planning must be undertaken to achieve the desired result. This work must be undertaken by trained and experienced Flexene fixers and finishers.
The Flexene drawing office and consulting service may be engaged to provide additional services.
Flexene can be bent, twisted, warped or distorted to form many designed surfaces however cutting and joining (“tailoring”) is generally required to varying extents,
depending on the complexity of the desired shape and surface finish.
Flexene can be cut using a sharp knife, Stanley knife or box cutter.
Flexene can be pre-fabricated in panel form and installed on site or totally fixed and finished to form a seamless shape or surface.
A greater variety of forms, shapes and effects can be achieved by using other timber or steel frames including the Flexene Adjustable Fixing System.
The installation of the system is generally in three easy steps:
STEP ONE is the set out and fixing of the support structure
STEP TWO is the fixing, cutting and joining of the Flexene sheeting
STEP THREE is the coating and finishing of the surface.
