From L to Ω: Secrets to Securing Stone with Stability and Elegance

1. L-Angle

Shape: Simple “L” profile with two perpendicular legs.

Key Features:

• Legs can be equal or unequal in length.
• Metal edge remains visible if not fully covered by stone.

Use in Stone Cladding:

• Supports the bottom or sides of stone panels on walls (interior or exterior).
• Fastened directly to the substrate (concrete or steel frame) with screws or anchors, then the stone is glued or mechanically fixed to it.

Advantages:

• Very easy to manufacture and install.
• Lowest cost of the three profiles.
• Ideal for lightweight stone panels and simple shelf details.

Drawbacks:

• Exposed metal edge can be unsightly if not completely covered.
• Lowest load-bearing capacity among the three.

2. Z-Angle

Shape: “Z” profile with three legs—one leg against the substrate, one projecting out to carry the stone, and a connecting web.

Key Features:

• Creates an air gap behind the stone.
• Conceals fasteners when used in a ventilated system.

Use in Stone Cladding:

• Ventilated (rainscreen) stone facades that require airflow and drainage behind the panels.
• Often part of a hidden-fastener system, so no screws are visible on the stone face.

Advantages:

• Enables a fully hidden anchorage.
• Promotes ventilation behind the stone, reducing moisture buildup.
• Allows precise height and alignment adjustments.

Drawbacks:

• Higher cost and more complex fabrication than L-angles.
• Requires careful layout and installation tolerances.

3. Ω-Angle (Omega)

Shape: Omega (Ω) profile with a curved or straight top leg that wraps down and back up, forming an internal channel or “pocket.”

Key Features:

• Internal channel holds a clip or nut that clamps the stone.
• Completely conceals all hardware.

Use in Stone Cladding:

• Heavy or large panels where maximum load capacity and hidden fixing are needed.
• Stone is secured by clips that slide into the Ω channel and lock in place.

Advantages:

• Fully hidden fixing for a clean, uninterrupted stone surface.
• Highest load-bearing capacity—suitable for large, thick slabs.
• Panels can be removed and replaced easily for maintenance.

Drawbacks:

• Highest cost due to precision forming and specialized clips.
• Demands exact coordination between fabricator and installer to match tolerances.

4. Quick Comparison

5. Selection Tips

1. Panel Weight & Size:
   • Use L-angles for small, lightweight panels.
   • Use Z-angles for ventilated systems and moderate-weight panels.
   • Use Ω-angles for very heavy or large slabs (over ~50 kg/m²).
2. Aesthetic Requirements:
   • If no metal should show, choose Z or Ω profiles.
3. Moisture & Ventilation Needs:
   • Where moisture or condensation is a concern (e.g. pools, kitchens), Z-angles provide a ventilated air gap.
4. Budget Constraints:
   • L-angles are most economical, followed by Z-angles, then Ω-angles.