VertiBrace (Partition Restraint)

VertiBrace (Partition Restraint)

VertiBrace is a revolutionary way of accommodating vertical movement within a unit, providing lateral bracing for partitions. Essentially, this brace removes the need for deflection head track and offers a solution that also works for glazed partitions.

All buildings are affected by vertical movement, which can be caused by wind, seismic events, and live/dead loads imposed on the floor above. In large or multi-level buildings, this movement can be substantial. If not considered, vertical movement can cause irreversible damage to partition walls and 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 helps ensure occupant safety and limits non-structural partition damage.

VertiBrace utilises a sliding connection that separates the partition wall from the structure above, meaning that any vertical deflection won’t damage the partition system. The partition wall bracket consists of a cylinder that connects to the upper surface of a wall and a stem that connects to the building structure above. The stem is designed to move within the cylinder along the longitudinal axis of the body.

When installed, the VertiBrace allows 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, preventing noise as the connection slides. An additional benefit is that it greatly reduces footfall vibrations transferring down through partition walls.

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

Specifications:

• VertiBrace provides a partition restraint solution for vertical movement caused by wind, seismic events, and live/dead loads.
• Removes the need for deflection headtrack while ensuring occupant safety and limiting non-structural partition damage.
• Features a sliding connection that accommodates vertical deflection without damaging the partition system.
• Available in two versions: one allows +/- 25mm deflection (50mm total), and the other accommodates up to 70mm of movement (+/- 35mm).
• Acoustic sleeve prevents noise during movement, reducing footfall vibrations through partition walls.
• Can be retrofitted to timber, aluminium, and steel headtracks, suitable for most existing partitions.

VertiBrace was developed in response to architects’ needs for a partition restraint solution that addresses vertical movement in buildings caused by wind and seismic events. This solution has been extensively tested to exceed New Zealand Building Code requirements.

Click here to download Data Shee

Click here to download Installation Guide

Click here to download Design Guide