VertiBrace

All buildings are affected by vertical movement. This movement can be caused by wind and seismic events as well as live/dead loads imposed on the floor above. In large or multi-level buildings this movement can be substantial. When not considered, vertical movement can cause irreversible damage to partition walls and may endanger occupants in the event of a natural disaster.

VertiBrace provides lateral bracing for partial height partition walls and removes the need for deflection headtrack. It prevents many of the issues seen during the Christchurch, Kaikoura and Seddon Earthquakes, helping to ensure occupant safety and limit non-structural partition damage.

The VertiBrace utilises a sliding connection that separates the partition wall from the structure above meaning that any vertical deflection doesn’t damage the partition system. When installed, the Vertibrace will allow for +/- 25mm deflection, 50mm total. A taller version is available to accommodate 70mm worth of movement (+/- 35mm).

The VertiBrace cylinder is fitted with an acoustic sleeve which prevents noise as the connection slides. An additional benefit is that this greatly reduces footfall vibrations transferring down through partition walls.

VertiBrace can be fitted to timber, aluminium, and steel head-tracks and can be retro-fitted to most existing partitions.

VertiBrace meets the B1 structure provisions in the New Zealand Building Code. (when designed and installed in full compliance with the Design and Installation Guide)