What design strategies prevent visual distortion or waviness in large metal panels

What design strategies prevent visual distortion or waviness in large metal panels—often called oil-canning—require attention to material selection, panel geometry and supporting substructure. First, limit unsupported panel width and height to sizes suitable for the gauge and material temper; oversized flat panels are more prone to optical distortion. Second, incorporate stiffening features such as ribs, bends or formed returns that increase panel rigidity without compromising aesthetics. Third, design subframe and clip systems to hold panels uniformly and allow for controlled thermal expansion; inconsistent clip torquing or misaligned rails are common on-site causes of waviness. Fourth, choose appropriate substrate temper and finishes that minimize residual stresses created during forming; some coating systems exaggerate visual irregularities and should be validated on mock-ups. Fifth, provide clear handling and installation procedures to prevent tool marks or dents that later express as waviness. When a flush aesthetic is critical, consider smaller modules or a cassette approach to reduce unsupported spans. Full-scale mock-ups under representative lighting conditions are indispensable to detect potential distortion early and to refine tolerances. PRANCE Design supplies fabrication tolerances, stiffening options and installation protocols to mitigate these risks—technical references and mock-up services are described at https://prancebuilding.com. Employing these strategies ensures the metal façade reads as intended at architectural scale.