Building panel
Patent Information
- Application Number
- AU2026202589
- Authority / Receiving Office
- AU · AU
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2025-04-10
- Filing Date
- 2026-04-07
- Publication Date
- 2026-10-29
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
Technical Field This disclosure relates to a building panel for use in interior and / or exterior 5 cladding and / or structural components. Such panels may be used in wall and ceiling cladding, or as flooring, or underlays. The disclosure has particular application to architectural panels used in wall and ceiling cladding (otherwise known as panelling) that typically have a decorative or performance characteristic (e.g. water impermeability, acoustic damping) and the disclosure is herein 10 described in that context. However, it is to be appreciated that building panels of the disclosure have broader application and are not limited to that application. Background Art Medium density fibreboard (MDF), low or high-density fibreboard (LDF or HDF) particleboard, plywood, oriented strandboard (OSB), fine OSB or high gauge, 15 high-pressure laminate (HPL, also known as compact laminate) may be used for wall panelling (both for internal and external use) and involves fixing the panels, i.e., building panels, to a substrate, whether that be an existing wall or wall frame. Similar panels may also be used for creating a ceiling. In some forms, the panels are fixed to the substrate and to conceal the join between two panels and / or to 20 create a firm fix between two panels the join for the panels may be lapped to connect two panels side by side or along facing edges. Further fixing means such as nails, screws, staples or Z-clips may also be used to provide additional affixation to the substrate. Different surface applications may be applied or incorporated in the panels to alter 25 the performance and / or appearance of the panels. These applications may create decorative effects or enhance the performance or both. Further surface effects (e.g. routed lines) may be applied to the panels. As such, within the same profile 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 of panel, there may be a larger number of options on finishes. Whilst this allows a greater customer choice, it may require stockists to carry high inventory levels. Further, in using building panels to create a continuous cladding (as either interior or exterior cladding), several issues may be encountered that affects their 5 durability and appearance. For example, warping is a common problem often caused by moisture exposure and leading to panels bending or twisting out of shape. Splaying can also occur at joints between panels when panels do not align properly, creating gaps that can compromise structural integrity and aesthetics. Additionally, delamination can happen when the layers of the panel separate, 10 usually due to poor adhesive quality or environmental factors. These issues can result in increased maintenance costs and reduced lifespan of the building panels. It is to be understood that, if any prior art is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country. 15 Summary Disclosed is a building panel having opposite first and second panel faces. The building panel can also comprise first and second complementary joining profiles at mutually opposite panel edges. The joining profiles can be for forming a join, 20 i.e., a connection between the first and second panels. In some forms, the complementary joining profiles are configured such that when the panel is aligned with a like panel in edge to edge relation, the complementary joining profiles locate in interfitting relation to form a joint allowing relative in plane movement between the panels whilst inhibiting relative out of plane 25 movement. In some forms, the first and second joining profiles include at least one tongue on at least one of the first and second joining profiles and at least one groove on the 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 other of the at least one of the first and second joining profiles. In some forms, the complementary joining profiles are configured such that when the panel is aligned with a like panel in edge to edge relation, the respective at least one tongue and groove of the complementary joining profiles locate in interfitting 5 relation to form the joint. In some forms, each of the first and second joining profile comprise a fixing region for receiving fasteners to allow for concealed fixing at either of the complementary joining profiles of the panel. In some forms, when either one of the joining profiles is located in interfitting 10 relation with a joining profile of a like panel to form the joint, the respective fixing region is overlayed by the joining profile of the like panel such the fixing region is caused to be internal to the joint to allow for concealed fixing at either of the complementary joining profiles of the panel. In some forms, each of the first and second joining profiles include a tongue and a 15 groove and the complementary joining profiles are configured such that when the panel is aligned with a like panel in edge to edge relation, the respective tongues and grooves of the complementary joining profiles locate in interfitting relation to form the joint. The first joining profile can comprise the tongue spaced from the first panel face. 20 The first joining profile can also comprise the groove disposed between the tongue and the second panel face and can be spaced from the second panel face. The second joining profile can comprise the tongue spaced from the second panel face. The second joining profile can also comprise the groove disposed between the tongue and the first panel face and can be spaced from the first panel face. 25 The groove can be disposed inboard of the tongue in each of the first and second joining profiles. This can form the internal fixing region. The internal fixing region can be for receiving fasteners, i.e., therethrough, to allow for concealed fixing at either of the complementary joining profiles of the panel, i.e., one of the 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 first or second joining profiles can conceal the fastener received in the other of the first or second joining profiles. The internal fixing regions may extend from an internal fixing surface to a respective one of the first and second panel faces in each of the first and second 5 joining profiles, i.e., so as to define a volume of material (i.e., a thickness) for receiving the fastener through the internal fixing region. The first joining profile may further comprise a tongue shoulder inboard from a distal end of the tongue. The tongue shoulder may extend to the first panel face. A groove shoulder may extend from the groove to the second panel face. In this 10 regard, the tongue and groove shoulders of the first joining profile may be located next to their respective tongue and groove. The second joining profile may further comprise a tongue shoulder inboard from a distal end of the tongue. The tongue shoulder may extend to the second panel face. A groove shoulder may extend from the groove to the first panel face. In this 15 regard, the tongue and groove shoulders of the second joining profile may be located next to their respective tongue and groove. The fixing regions may be disposed between a proximal end of the tongue shoulder (i.e., a nearest point on the shoulder to the fixing region) and a distal end of the groove (i.e., a nearest point of the groove to the fixing region) in each of the 20 first and second joining profiles. When the panel is aligned with a like panel in edge to edge relation, i.e., along their joining profiles, the respective tongue and groove shoulders of the complementary joining profiles may be in opposing relation. When in such an opposing relation, the joining profiles may define face profiles at the joint on the 25 each of the opposite panel faces of the aligned panels. A shape of the face profile formed at the joint on one face of the aligned panels may be the same as the shape of the face profile at the joint on the other face of the aligned panels. The shape may be formed from at least part of the tongue and 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 groove shoulder. The shape may also be formed from the at least part of the tongue and groove shoulders and a portion, i.e., exposed surface, of the tongue. A position and / or orientation of the groove shoulders and / or tongue shoulders on the respective joining profiles may not be uniform. Such non uniform position 5 and / orientation may be such that the shape of the face profile formed at the joint on one face of the aligned panels is different from the shape of the face profile at the joint on the other face of the aligned panels. The position and / or orientation of the groove shoulder and / or tongue should may be non uniform when, for example, the groove shoulders and / or tongue shoulders on a first joining profile are 10 different to those of a second joining profile. The tongue shoulder in the second joining profile may be disposed further inboard from the distal end of the tongue, than the tongue shoulder in the first joining profile. Advantageously, this can form at least part of the face profile formed at the joint of the panels. 15 A minimum width of the fixing region may be equal to a shank diameter (D) of the fastener plus a minimum total clearance requirement for fixing the fastener. In some forms, the minimum width of the fixing region is about 2.5D. The minimum clearance is required to allow for access for a fastener tool, to allow for leeway in fastener position on the fixing region. Further, when a panel is prefixed 20 before connecting an adjacent panel, a minimum clearance is provided to prevent the fastener from locating too close to an end of the edge profile edge that may damage the edge profile preventing or inhibiting the installation of the adjacent panel. In some forms, when the fastener is a nail, a dimensional range of the minimum 25 width of the fixing region may be greater than or equal to about 6mm. The minimum total clearance requirement for fixing the fastener may be greater than or equal to 4mm when the fastener is the nail and the shank diameter of the nail may be greater than or equal to 1.8mm. 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 When the fastener is a screw, the dimensional range of the minimum width of the fixing region may be greater than or equal to 10.5mm. The minimum total clearance requirement for fixing the fastener may be greater than or equal to 6mm, when the fastener is the screw and the shank diameter of the screw may be greater 5 than or equal to 4mm. The first and second complementary joining profiles may be further configured such that that, when the panel is aligned in edge to edge relation with a like panel that is inverted with respect to the panel, the first joining profiles of each panel locate in interfitting relation to form a joint. The joint may allow relative in plane 10 movement between the panels whilst inhibiting relative out of plane movement. Advantageously, the inverted, i.e., flipped, like panel and the like panel to display, i.e., present, different panel faces on e.g., a building wall. In some forms, the first and second complementary joining profiles are further configured such that that when the panel is aligned in edge to edge relation with a 15 like panel that is inverted with respect to the panel, the second joining profiles of each panel locate in interfitting relation to form a joint allowing relative in plane movement between the panels whilst inhibiting relative out of plane movement. Also disclosed is a building panel having opposite first and second panel faces and first and second complementary joining profiles at mutually opposite panel 20 edges, wherein the complementary joining profiles are configured such that when the panel is aligned with a like panel in edge to edge relation, the complementary joining profiles locate in interfitting relation. In some forms, the panel further comprises fixing regions for receiving fasteners to secure the interfitting panels to a supporting structure. One or more of the fixing regions is configured to receive 25 fasteners to enable the interfitting panels to be secured to the supporting structure with the first panel face facing outwardly from the support structure. Also, one or more of the fixing regions is configured to receive fasteners to enable the interfitting panels to be secured to the supporting structure with the second panel face facing outwardly from the support structure. In some forms, when the joint is 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 formed from the interfitting panels, the fixing regions are located so that fasteners received therein are concealed. In some forms, a portion of the joining profile of the like panel is caused to overlay at least one of the fixing regions on the panel when the panels are in 5 interfitting relation so as to cause the at least one of the fixing regions to be internal to the joint to conceal the fasteners received therein. In some forms, when the panels are in interfitting relation, a face profile is provided at one of the panel faces, and at least one of the fixing regions is disposed within the face profile such that the fasteners received therein are 10 concealed. In some forms, the face profile is routed within the face of the panel. By having the fixing regions disposed on a face of the interfitting panels, the fasteners may be installed following interfitting of the panels to form the joint. In some forms, the first and second complementary joining profiles include shoulders extending to at least one of the opposite first and second panel faces, 15 wherein when the panel is in interfitting relation with a like panel to form a joint, the shoulder of the panel is in opposing relation with the shoulder of the like panel to define the face profile and wherein at least one of the fixing regions is disposed between the opposing shoulders so that fasteners received therein are located within the face profile and are concealed. 20 A plurality of the building panels as set forth in any form above can be configured in interfitting relation to form a building cladding. Such building cladding may be applied to an interior or exterior of a building to form a protective and decorative outer layer. In some forms, the cladding may be wall cladding or ceiling cladding. 25 In some forms, an adhesive is applied to a supporting structure and the panels applied and fixed in position by the fasteners allowing the panel to remain in contact with the adhesive as it cures. In some forms, the fasteners are applied so 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 as not to inhibit expansion and contraction at the joint through relative in-plane movement of the installed panels. Further, the adhesive used can provide adequate flex at the bond to similarly not inhibit this relative in plane movement. In some forms, the fasteners are applied at fixing regions on the panels and are 5 concealed on the outer face of the applied panels. The fasteners may be applied at an edge profile before connection of a subsequent panel to that edge profile. In some forms, the fasteners may be applied subsequent to that connection. In some forms, the panels are designed to allow flexibility in how the panels are installed whilst still providing an exterior finish with all fasteners concealed. In 10 some forms, either face of the panel may be used as the exterior face of the installed cladding. In some forms, the panel is designed so that the same panel face does not need to be used across the cladding such that the cladding may be installed with a mix of faces of the panels as the exterior surface of the cladding if desired. 15 Brief Description of the Drawings Embodiments will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figs. 1 is a perspective view of a building panel; 20 Fig. 2 is a perspective view of two adjoining building panels; Fig. 3 is an end view of the building panel of Figs. 1 and 2; Fig. 4 is an end view of two building panels inline for adjoining; Fig. 5 is an end view of two adjoining building panels; Figs. 6a to 6c are end views of two building panels inline for adjoining, where 25 one of the panels is fastened to a substrate; Figs. 7a to 7c are variations in panel orientations; 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 Figs. 8 to 11 are side views of building panels for comparison. Detailed Description In the following detailed description, reference is made to accompanying drawings which form a part of the detailed description. The illustrative 5 embodiments described in the detailed description and depicted in the drawings are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilised and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the drawings can be 10 arranged, substituted, combined, separated and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated in this disclosure. The disclosure is directed to building panels that in some embodiments may be used in wall and ceiling cladding. The panels can be formed from engineered wood products including fibreboards including finished and decorative 15 fibreboards, medium density fibreboard (MDF), high density fibreboard (HDF), low density fibreboard (LDF), melamine decorated MDF, oriented strandboard (OSB), fine OSB (FOSB), compact laminate, plywood or other veneered products. Preferred is an MDF or melamine decorated MDF panel and particularly preferred is a finished or decorated MDF or melamine decorated MDF panel. 20 The panel can have a core between the front and rear surfaces and the core can be a natural timber colour, or it can be bleached, dyed or pigmented (e.g. white, black, grey or other) for decorative effect. As set forth in more detail later, if a black, grey or brown core substrate is used, cut-out portions e.g., routed edges, formed in the front surface can create a decorative shadow line, particularly when 25 the front surface has a decorative finish. The core substrate may be formulated with flame retardants (e.g. magnesium dihydroxide and / or aluminium trihydroxide, or ammonium polyphosphate), pesticides (e.g. boric acid or pyrethrum) or hydrophobising agents (e.g. paraffin wax) to improve the properties of the finished product. The finished product may 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 be a decorated panel or include routed sections for decorative and sound proofing purposes. The finished product may be used raw or coated with a commercially available paint or other suitable coating. The panels may be decorated on the front and / or rear surfaces with a printed, 5 treated melamine decor layer. Alternatively, the front and / or rear surfaces may be decorated with a foil or sheet of crosslinked acrylic, polyester, polyvinyl chloride, or polypropylene. These layers or sheets may be adhesively or thermally laminated to the front and / or rear surfaces to achieve the decorative effect. Alternatively, the front and / or rear surfaces of the panel may be painted using a 10 commercially available coating such as acrylic, enamel, polyurethane, polyurethane hybrid polymers, epoxy, etc prior to routing the front and / or rear surfaces of the panel. In some embodiments, the panels include joining profiles along opposite edges to allow interfitting of the panels (e.g.as tongue and groove connections). These 15 edge profiles may be manufactured using a computer numerical control (CNC) router, tenoner, spindle moulder, an overhead router, manual router or other equipment. The panel edges can be face routed to form the complementary joining profiles The tongue and groove connections, when assembled, can create an expansion 20 joint between the joining profiles. The expansion joint can allow the panels to move independently of each other to accommodate expansion and contraction occurring due to changes in e.g., temperature, humidity, etc. This can help prevent out-of-plane movement, e.g., warping, buckling, etc., in the panels that can compromise the overall structure of e.g., a wall. As a result, tongue and groove 25 connections can help maintain an aesthetic appeal and structural integrity of e.g., a wall, over time. The expansion joint formed by the interfitting edge profiles can also provide a positional tolerance to the panels during their installation. The connections can allow for slight adjustments by e.g., an installer of the panels, making it easier to 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 align the panels correctly even if an adjacent panel or an underlying substrate, e.g., wall stud, is not correctly aligned / positioned. Advantageously, this flexibility reduces a likelihood of installation errors and ensures a more uniform and professional appearance. Additionally, the design accommodates minor 5 imperfections in the panels themselves, reducing the need for trimming or adjustments in the panels. This tolerance not only simplifies the installation process but also saves time and reduces labour costs. In forming a tongue and groove joint that allows in limited in plane movement, in one form only one of the panels is fixed to the fasteners to the underlying 10 substrate. With such an arrangement, the other (non-fastened panel) is able to move relative the fixed panel at the joint. As set forth in more detail herein, the joining profiles can be arranged that the joining profile at each panel edge at the joint is designed to be able to receive fasteners (so that either panel can be the fixed panel at the joint), thereby providing greater flexibility during installation. 15 This can provide a versatility to the panels, allowing them to be securely attached in various configurations, accommodating different structural needs and aesthetic preferences. Further, the fasteners are arranged to be conceal so as to not detract from the surface finish. An adhesive may applied to a supporting structure and the panels applied and 20 fixed in position by the fasteners allowing the panel to remain in contact with the adhesive as it cures. The adhesive used can provide adequate flex at the bond to not inhibit this relative in plane movement of the panels to allow for effective operation of the expansion joint. Referring for Figures 1 and 2, a building panel 10 is shown. The panel 10 25 comprises opposite first and second panel faces 12,14 and first and second complementary joining profiles 16,18 at mutually opposite panel edges 20,22. Referring now to Figures 3 and 4, the first joining profile 16 can comprise a tongue 24 spaced from the first panel face 12. A tongue shoulder 26 can be provided inboard from a distal end 28 of the tongue 24 and configured to extend 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 to the first panel face 12. A groove 30 can be disposed between the tongue 24 and the second panel face 14. The groove 30 can be spaced from the second panel face 14 by a groove shoulder 32. The groove shoulder 32 can extend from the groove 30 to the second panel face 14. 5 The second joining profile 18 can comprise a tongue 24’ spaced from the second panel face 14. A tongue shoulder 26’ can be provided inboard from a distal end 28’ of the tongue 24’ and configured to extend to the second panel face 14. A groove 30’ can be disposed between the tongue 24’ and the first panel face 12. The groove 30’ can be spaced from the first panel face 12, and a groove shoulder 10 32’ can be configured to extend from the groove 30’ to the first panel face 12. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the complementary joining profiles 16,18 can be configured such that the panel 10 is aligned with a like panel 10’ in edge-to-edge relation. When aligned as such, the respective tongues 24,24’ and grooves 30,30’ of the complementary joining profiles 16,18 can locate in interfitting relation. In 15 other words, the tongue and groove can interdigitate. As shown in Figure 5, this interfitting relation forms a joint 34 between the panels that allows relative, in plane movement between the panels, i.e., sliding towards or away from each other. The interfitting relation also can inhibit, i.e., restrict, a relative out of plane movement of the panels, i.e., a movement of the panels away from a structural 20 member, i.e., vertical or horizontal members of a wall. As best shown in Figure 4, the respective tongue and groove shoulders 26,32,26’,32’ of the complementary joining profiles 16,18 can be located in opposing relation. This arrangement of the tongue and groove shoulders defines face profiles 36,38 at the joint 34 on each of the opposite panel faces 12,14 of the 25 aligned panels 10,10’. Referring now to Figure 6a, the grooves 30,30’ are disposed inboard of each tongue 24,24’ such that the respective first and second joining profiles 16,18 can form a fixing region 40,40’. The fixing region can be sized for receiving fasteners F therethrough, and to allow for sufficient access for fastening tools (such as nail 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 guns) to facilitate installation. Advantageously, a fastener ‘F’ (i.e., a fixing means) received though one of the fixing regions 40,40’ of one of the complementary joining profiles can be concealed by the other of the complementary joining profiles thereby causing the fixing regions 40,40’ to be internal to the joint 5 formed. As shown in Figure 6a, the fixing regions 40,40’ can extend from a fixing surface 42,42’ to a respective one of the first and second panel faces 12,14 in each of the first and second joining profiles 16,18. As shown, the fixing regions 40,40’ are disposed between a proximal end 44,44’ of the tongue shoulder 26,26’ and a distal 10 end 46,46’ of the groove 30,30’ in each of the first and second joining profiles 16,18. This provides a sufficient distance, i.e., spacing along the joining profile (e.g., along the tongue 24,24’) to allow the fixing means F to be inserted therethrough to affix the panel to a substrate ‘S’, e.g., a metal or timber frame, plasterboard or other pre-existing wall lining, etc. 15 In-use, and as shown in Figure 6c, once a panel 10 has been fastened in place by a fastener through the fixing region 40, the fastener can be embedded, i.e., inset, within the tongue 24 such that a tongue 24’ of an adjacent panel 10’ can be slid over the fixed tongue 24. In other words, a head of the fastener F can be positioned flush with the fixing surface 42,42’ of the tongue 24,24’. 20 As set forth in more detail later, the joining profile can thereby allow for blind fixing of a first panel 10 through a tongue 24, whereby a second panel 10’ can be overlayed, i.e., inserted thereat such that the overlaying fixing region 40’ conceals the fastener F that has been used through the first panel 10. The fixing means F may be a nail, screw, or staple that can be readily inserted by a worker. The fixing 25 region 40,40’ can be readily accessible to a worker as it extends beyond the groove shoulders 32,32’ and hence, this arrangement allows for very quick installation of the panel allowing for a readily installed panelling system directly to e.g., a metal or timber frame, plasterboard or other pre-existing wall lining, or via the use of Z15 clips or split battens. 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 A minimum width requirement for the fixing region 40,40’ (i.e., attachment area for the panel) is based on a need to provide structural support to the fastener shank to ensure secure attachment to timber battens, stud frames, or furring channels. An allowance is made for installation variability (i.e., by the installer of the panel), 5 without a bulging or ‘volcano effect’ of the fastener F, allowing the installer to achieve a flush interface between the connected panels, i.e., whereby adjoining panel faces 12,14 align in-plane. A relationship between the minimum width of the fixing region 40,40’ (A), the fastener shank diameter (F) and a minimum total clearance requirement for fixing 10 the fastener (M), is as follows: A = F + M This relationship assumes the fastener F is fixed centrally of the fixing region 40,40’. For standard construction nails, the shank diameter can range from about 2mm to 15 about 6mm. Assuming the fastener F is a nail with minimum shank diameter (F) of about 2mm, the minimum total clearance requirement for fixing the fastener (M) can be about 4mm. The dimensional range of the minimum width of the fixing region (A) can therefore be greater than or equal to (>) about 6mm (i.e., a summation of values (F) and (M)), assuming the fastener is a nail. 20 Assuming the fastener is a nail with maximum shank diameter (F) of about 6mm, and the clearance for fixing the fastener (M) is 4mm, the maximum width of the fixing region (A) can therefore be about 8mm. Therefore the dimensional range of the width of the fixing region is about 6 to 8mm, if the fastener is a nail. 25 In an example, the minimum width of the fixing region 40,40’ is 6.36mm, assuming a standard minimum nail shank diameter of 2.36mm and a clearance of 4mm. 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 For standard construction screws, the shank diameter can range from about 4mm to about 6mm. Assuming the fastener F is a screw with minimum shank diameter (F) of about 4mm, then the minimum total clearance requirement for fixing the fastener (M) can be about 6mm. The minimum width of the fixing region (A) can 5 therefore be about 10mm (i.e., a summation of values (F) and (M)), assuming the fastener is a screw. Assuming the fastener F is a screw with maximum shank diameter (F) of about 6mm, and the clearance for fixing the fastener (M) is 6mm, the dimensional range of the maximum width of the fixing region (A) can therefore be about 12mm. 10 Therefore, the dimensional range of the width of the fixing region is about 10 to 12mm, if the fastener is a screw. In an example, the minimum width of the fixing region 40,40’ is 10.3mm, assuming a standard minimum nail shank diameter of 4mm and a clearance of 6.3mm. 15 In considering the different fasteners that may be used and the preference that as the shank diameter (D) of the fastener increases, the clearance provided around that fastener similarly increases, it has been found that a useful guide for establishing the minimum width is 2.5D. In another example, the width of the fixing region 40 of a first panel 10 may be 20 about 18.5mm, and the width of the fixing region 40’ of a second panel 10’ may be about 12mm. In this case, the tongue 24,24’ and groove 30,30’ may each be about 4mm in cross-sectional thickness. A corresponding tongue shoulders 26,26’ and groove shoulders 32,32’ may each be about 2mm in cross-sectional thickness. In further example, the width of the fixing region 40 of a first panel 10 may be 25 about 10mm, and the width of the fixing region 40’ of a second panel 10’ may be about 13.5mm. In this case, the tongue 24,24’ and groove 30,30’ may each be about 4mm in cross-sectional thickness. A corresponding tongue shoulders 26,26’ and groove shoulders 32,32’ may each be about 2mm in cross-sectional thickness. 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 It can be seen that, while the width dimensions of the fixing region 40,40’ may change, e.g., depending on whether a screw or nail is utilised, the tongue 24,24’ and groove 30,30’ and the tongue shoulders 26,26’ and groove shoulders 32,32’ may remain the same in each case. 5 It is noted that the fixing region 40,40’ can be smaller than provided in the dimensional ranges set forth above, however, this can slow down installation and risks ‘volcano effect’ during mounting. The fixing region can also be larger than defined, i.e., larger than 12mm, but this creates waste in the form of panel loss (routing edges loses material). Also, longer joints can become brittle. 10 The panel 10 can range in thickness from 4mm (i.e., compact) to 30mm (in materials of particle board or MDF). The panels 10 can be thicker, but this makes them heavy and hard to handle. For many use cases, the panel thickness will be in the range of 10mm to 20mm. The panel width can range from 300mm to 1200mm. While wider widths are possible, the panels become hard to manoeuvre. 15 Referring now to Figures 6a and 6b, both joining profiles 16,18 provide fixing regions 40,40’ for receiving a fastener F therethrough. Advantageously, this allows the panel 10 to be ‘reversible’, i.e., for being fixed to a substrate S with either panel face 12,14 outwardly facing away from the substrate. As set forth previously, and with reference to Figure 6a, the panel 10 can be mounted to a 20 substrate S with the panel face 12 facing the substrate. The fixing surface 42 thereby faces outwardly to receive the fastener F therethrough. In a reversed orientation of the panel 10’ shown in Figure 6b, the panel 10’ can be mounted to a substrate S with the panel face 14 facing the substrate. The fixing surface 42’ thereby faces outwardly to receive the fastener F therethrough. Particular 25 advantages of such reversibility are set forth later. As best shown in the assembled view of Figure 5, a spacing between the groove shoulders 32,32’ and / or tongue shoulders 26,26’ can be different so as to provide the appearance of different shapes of the face profiles 36,38. In other words, the position and / or orientation of the groove shoulders 32,32’ and / or tongue shoulders 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 24,24’ on the respective joining profiles 16,18 can be different, i.e., not uniform. As shown, the shape of the face profile 36 formed at the joint on one face 12 of the aligned panels 10,10’ is different from the shape of the face profile 38 at the joint on the other face 14 of the aligned panels 10,10’. 5 In the form shown, the face profiles provide the appearance of a different ‘gap’ or spacing between the two panels 10,10’ on either face 12,14 of the panels. In the case of the face profile 38, i.e., an ‘express join’, the tongue shoulder 26’ is disposed further inboard, i.e., further away, from the distal end of the tongue 28’. By comparison, for the face profile 36, i.e., a ‘pencil join’, a relatively smaller 10 distance is provided between the tongue shoulder 26 and the distal end of the tongue 28. In effect, the spacing between the tongue shoulder 26’ and the groove shoulder 32 is larger than the spacing between the tongue shoulder 26 and the groove shoulder 32’. As set forth previously, if a black, grey or brown core substrate is used for the 15 panel, the face profiles create a decorative shadow line, i.e., a contrast colour join, particularly when the front surface has a decorative finish. In this regard, the face profiles can be used as a decorative technique. In the form shown best in Figure 5, the tongue shoulders 26,26’ and the groove shoulders 32,32’ are provided with a bevelled, i.e., raked, profile. In other words, the groove 20 and tongue shoulders are obtusely angled, i.e., having an internal angle greater than 90o with their respective panel faces 12,14. As set forth above, the tongue and groove shoulders 26,26’,32,32’ can be provided with different spacings. In some forms, the magnitude of space between the shoulders can be determined by a length of respective fixing regions 40,40’ of 25 tongues 24,24’. This is illustrated in Figure 6a, where the fixing region 40 can be seen to be larger than the fixing region 40’. Accordingly, the spacing between opposing tongue and groove shoulders 26,32’ on opposing panel faces can be different. 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 For example, as shown in Figure 5, the tongue and groove shoulders can be spaced such that they are located against each other, or in close proximity, so as to form a ‘V’ shape at the face profile 36. On the opposing panel face 14, the spacing between opposing tongue and groove shoulders 26’,32 can be larger, arranging 5 the tongue and groove shoulders further apart so as to form a trapezoidal shape at the face profile 36. While not shown, is should be appreciated that the tongue shoulders 26,26’ and the groove shoulders 32,32’ can be alternatively shaped, e.g., being acutely angled relative to the panel faces, being angled perpendicular to the panel faces, having 10 curved shapes, trapezoidal shapes, or other shapes so as to define differently shaped face profiles 36,38. The inclusion of the face profiles 38, in some instances where those faces profiles are of sufficient width, may provide a fixing region to provide a fastener that is concealed within the join 34. As an example, where the face profile forms a 15 decorative join or route that is dark in colour, e.g. black, a similarly coloured fastener may be inserted through the join. As such, this fastener can be applied after the installation of the panels (as distinct from when the fasteners are installed through fixing regions 40, 40’). Fasteners applied through the face profiles 38 may be used to pin the adjoining panels together and / or to secure the panels to an 20 underlying substrate. This could be used to further restrict out of plane movement (e.g. edge splaying) where the interfitting arrangement of the edge profiles is simplified (e.g. where only a single tongue and groove arrangement is used). It could also be used in place of pre-fixing through fixing regions 40, 40’. If fixing is provided through the face profiles that do pin the adjoining panels together, this 25 would inhibit the join 34 acting as an expansion joint. As such, it would only be desirable to use such an arrangement where the environment was stable such that expansion and contraction was not a major concern, or the expansion and contraction was accommodated separately. Also, whilst the fastener may be concealed within the face profile 38, it is not fully hidden as is the case when 30 fixing through fixing regions 40, and 40’. 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 Advantageously, the assembled panels 10,10’, etc., having differently shaped face profiles 36,38 and / or different surface finishes on the faces, can allow the single panel 10 to provide more than one decorative arrangement when mounted to a substrate S. As set forth previously, the fixing regions 40,40’ at each joining 5 profile 16,18 of the panel 10 allow the panel to be fixed to a substrate with either panel face 12,14 outwardly facing. This allows the panel 10 to be ‘reversible’ for allowing for such decorative options when installing the panels. For example, referring to Figure 7a, a first orientation of the panels 10,10’, etc., can be provided whereby only the face profiles 36 are visible, i.e., outwardly 10 facing away from the substrate S (as shown in Figure 6c). Referring to Figure 7b, a second orientation of the panels 10,10’, etc., can be provided, whereby the panels 10,10’, etc., are inverted relative to the first orientation, i.e., such only the face profiles 38 are visible, i.e., outwardly facing away from the substrate (where the panel face 14 is mounted thereat). Referring to Figure 7c, a third orientation of 15 the panels 10,10’, etc., can be provided, whereby adjoining panels may be alternated in orientation, i.e., as an ‘interchanging join’. Such an alternating orientation of the panels 10,10’ can be achieved as a result of the joining profile 16,18 dimensions. That is, in-use, when the facing panels 12,14 are aligned, the fixing surfaces 42,42’ of two adjoining panels 10,10’ align in 20 either of the reversible orientations of the panels. Additionally, the dimensions (e.g., width and length) of the tongue 24,24’ and grooves 30,30’ are correspondingly (i.e., complementarily) sized such that when brought together in either reversible orientation of the panel, the tongue and groove can be connected, i.e., mated, together. 25 Such an alternating orientation also allows the face profiles 36,38 to be patterned, e.g., alternating along a length of e.g., a wall. It is anticipated that any number of face profile patterns may be prepared, e.g., alternating in ‘ones’ (i.e., 36; 38; 36; 38...), ‘twos’ (36,36; 38,38; 36,36), ‘threes’ (36,36,36; 38,38,38; 36,36,36), or any number of combinations. 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 It can be appreciated that such variations, as shown for example in Figures 7a to 7c, provide a flexibility in decorative appearance of the panels. Advantageously, this can allow the single panel 10 to accommodate for different interior designs within e.g., a residential building. 5 In some further forms, tongue shoulders 26,26’ and the groove shoulders 32,32’ may be shaped such that, once installed, no face profile is visible, thereby creating near invisible joins, i.e., forming substantially flush surfaces between the panels 10,10’, etc. Advantageously, the ‘reversible’ panel 10 can simplify an ordering and 10 installation process, as a single product (i.e., stock keeping unit, SKU) can be installed using either panel face 12,14 as the outwardly facing ‘displayed’ surface. For example, an installer or architect may elect to purchase a building panel 10 with a particular type of woodgrain finish on one of the panel faces 12 and an opposing panel face 14 with a different type of woodgrain finish. The reversibility 15 of the panel means the installer / architect has the freedom to install the wall or ceiling to create a wall with either woodgrain finish. Similarly, panels 10 may be purchased with a routed front face, and a plain, unrouted rear face, and the installer can adapt the wall appearance on site, at the point of installation. This design freedom enables the installer / architect to change the look of the 20 wall / ceiling without the need to carry multiple SKUs at the construction site. Therefore, the panel 10 disclosed herein can reduce storage requirements within distribution and therefore minimise potential waste which is a risk of having multiple product SKUs. The reduced SKUs also enables more “looks” to be housed at a retailer. 25 Additionally, a builder using the panels reduces potential waste from having to carry multiple SKUs. As set forth previously, the grooves 30,30’ can be shaped to accommodate the respective tongues 24,24’ when placed therein. As shown in Figure 6c, the shape at the distal end of the tongues 28,28’ create spaces 48 between the rounded end 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 of the groove arrangement and the tongues 24,24’. The shape at the distal ends 28,28’ can be angled or rounded such that a space is left to allow for slight movement or expansion / contraction of the panel or the tongue section. In use, an installation of the panels 10,10’, etc., can include affixing a first panel 5 10 to a supporting substrate S by gluing a panel to the substrate and / or by inserting suitable fixing means F through the tongue 24,24’ of one of the panel edges 20,22 that is adjacent the supporting substrate S. An adjacent panel 10’ can then be placed so that a complementary tongue 24,24’ of the adjacent panel 10’ is inserted into the corresponding groove 30,30’ of the fixed panel 10. This creates a 10 blind join, as set forth previously, whereby the fixing means F is covered by the tongue 24,24’ of the adjacent panel 10’. This not only improves the visual appearance of assembled panels, but also reduces the time otherwise required for filling, i.e., applying filler, caps, etc., for concealing the fixings. The first panel 10 is fixed to the substrate to initially hold the panel 10 in place 15 while the adjoining panel 10’ is connected thereto for further securing the first panel 10 at the substrate S. Hence, the through fixing of the in each panel 10,10’, etc., are not visible on the faces 12,14 of the panel once installed. Each panel 10,10’, etc., may only need to be fixed to the supporting substrate S by fixing means F along the fixing region 40,40’ of the panel, i.e., along a single 20 edge thereof. As an alternative, or in addition to, fasteners such as nails or screws, other typical construction adhesives may be used, such as PU based Liquid Nails™, Sika™, Selleys™. This provides installations of the panels with a greater dimensional stability and improved appearance. That is, one of the panel edges can be fixed in position at the fixing region 40,40’ while the other, opposing panel 25 edge can be held against the substrate S by the tongue 24,24’ of a second, adjacent panel edge. Moreover, by concealing the fastener F in one panel 10 beneath an overlying panel 10’, an installer is not required to be particularly accurate when installing said fasteners. Advantageously, this can allow the installer to more quickly and 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 easily apply fasteners along the tongue 24,24’ and within the fixing surface 42,42’ during an installation of the panels. As set forth previously, the spaces 48 that are created between the tongue and groove allow for some expansion / contraction / swelling in a variety of climatic or 5 moisture conditions, such as dry heat, humidity or cooler environments. The spaces also mean that the panel will be less prone to issues such as peaking, gaps, lifting and minor lateral movement and enables the joins 34 between panels to maintain the structural, acoustic and insulative integrity of the wall, ceiling or flooring. 10 Moreover, while the tongue and groove allow for natural panel movement within the join once installed, they also assist with an alignment of the panel edges during assembly. This can allow installers to benefit from simplified, errorreducing installation. Moreover, the fixing surfaces 42,42’ of the panel 10 provide an adequate area within the join 34 to insert fasteners, e.g., nails or screws from 15 either side of the panel, i.e., when the panel is mounted with either panel face 12,14 outwardly facing. This can improve accessibility for installers, and in turn, an improve an ease with which a mechanical installation of the fasteners can be achieved through nailing guns and the like. Advantageously, the joining profiles 16,18 as set forth herein, can be simply 20 manufactured, comprising no re-entrant surfaces that require staged manufacturing. That is, the joining profiles 16,18 can be formed with a single tool. The joining profiles are therefore a simpler design when compared to the prior art joining profiles. This reduces the complexity of the panel manufacture, thereby reducing material consumption during the manufacture of the panels. 25 Moreover, the reduced complexity of the joining profile reduces a number of tools required to produce the joining profile. In effect, this also reduces the cost of manufacture and simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces warehouse storage requirements for routing equipment and tools, complexity of routing equipment, and hence, a size of the factory footprint. 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 Test Results Melamine decorated MDF panels in 12mm and 16mm thicknesses (LAMIWOOD MR MDF commercially available from Laminex) were routed on the edges and face using a Rover CNC router to produce various join designs. Exemplary joins 5 are shown in Figs. 8 to 11. Example 1 The first 16mm melamine decorated MDF panel made using the join routed into both edges of the panel (see Fig. 8). The top face (herein, ‘A’ face) of the panel 10 was face routed with a 5mm wide V groove (labelled ‘V’ in Fig. 8), while the bottom face (herein, ‘B’ face) did not have a gap (flush finish) and not designed as an externally facing face. The width of the fixing region when face A is visible (herein ‘FR-A”), taken as the distance between the distal end of the tab to edge of is panel face B. The panels were adhered to a timber stud wall frame using 15 construction adhesive applied to the plasterboard wall, and the edge joining profile was fixed to the frame studs using nails through fixing region FR-A. The nails were able to successfully fix the panels to the stud wall. Example 2 20 The first 16mm decorated MDF panel made using the join of Fig. 9 routed into both edges of a panel. The join was re-engineered in order to incorporate face routing on both faces of the panels. The top face of the panel (A face) was face routed with a 4mm wide batten groove (labelled ‘BG’ in Fig. 9), while the bottom face (B face) was routed with a 1mm wide “pencil line” (labelled ‘PL’) groove in 25 place of an angled groove shoulder such that the width of FR-A was greater than FR-B. The panels were adhered to a timber stud wall frame using construction adhesive applied to the plasterboard wall, and the edge joining profile was fixed to the frame studs using nails through fixing region FR-A. The first panel was able 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 to be successfully fixed to a timber stud wall using nails. The second panel was positioned adjacent to the first panel, adhered using construction adhesive, and then blind fixed in place via a nail in the opposite edge joining profile, again through fixing region FR-A. Additional panels were fixed in place using this 5 process until the stud wall was fully lined. The inventors found that the installation was fast, simple and resulted in a good quality wall with attractive batten grooves visible on the A face. No props were needed to secure the panels during adhesive curing - the nail fixing was adequate to temporarily hold the panels in place while the adhesive cured. The panels that included the joining 10 means of the panel allowed for installation that was very fast (approximately 1.5min per panel), and the wall was very quickly completed in this way. Example 3 The first 16mm panel was also made using the join of Fig. 9 routed into both 15 edges of a decorative panel. The top face of the panel was face routed with a 4mm wide batten groove (A face) and the bottom face was routed with 1mm wide “pencil line” groove (B face). The panels were adhered to the frame using construction adhesive applied to the plasterboard wall, with the pencil line groove face B visible and the edge joining profile was fixed to the frame through shorter 20 width fixing region FR-B using ZENITH CBJ7430 (Metal Phillips drive countersunk rib head screw 8g, 30mm length - 8 gauge screws and refer to the diameter of the shank, 8g equals 4.2mm under the metric system. The screws have a head roughly 8mm width). The second panel was positioned adjacent to the first panel but the second panel was unable to be installed due to a thickening of the 25 MDF join around the screw fixing. The inventors refer to this thickening as the “volcano” effect due to the raised appearance of the MDF immediately surrounding the screw. Additional panels were unable to be fixed in place using the screws, as the “volcanos” prevented the second and subsequent panels from insertion into the join area of the fixed panel. The inventors found that the join of 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 Fig. 9 was unable to be securely screw fixed, when both the top and bottom face of the panels were routed, i.e., the screw was too close to the end of the tongue, and there was insufficient fixing area into which the screw could fix. 5 Example 4 The inventors changed the join designs to enable thinner MDF panels. The first 12mm panel was made using the new join shown in Fig. 10. The top face (A face) of the panel was face routed with a 4mm wide batten groove (BG) and the bottom face (B face) was routed with 1mm wide pencil line groove (PL). The fixing 10 region width FR- A was approximately 10mm. The panels were adhered to the frame using construction adhesive applied to the plasterboard wall, with the batten face (A) visible and the tongue was fixed to the frame using screws. The second panel was positioned adjacent to the first panel and the second panel was able to be quickly installed. Additional panels were able to be fixed in place using 15 screws, and successfully completed to create an attractive batten routed wall (A visible). Example 5 The first 12mm panel was produced in accordance with Example 4 above. This 20 time the panel was installed with the B face visible. The fixing region FR-B width was approximately 7mm. The panels were adhered to the frame using construction adhesive applied to the plasterboard wall, with the pencil line face visible and the tongue was fixed to the frame using screws. The second panel was positioned adjacent to the first panel but the second panel was unable to be installed. 25 When positioning the second panel, the insufficient fixing region width (~7mm) and lack of precision from the installer caused damage to the joints, rendering the joins unusable for the installation. The inventors discovered that the "reversible" 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 panels, with both faces routed, could not be flush-installed due to the damaged joints and insufficient space for screw fixing. The Example 5 panels could not be installed in a reversible fashion using screws due to tearing at the joins. The inventors re-engineered the joins to accommodate 5 screw fixing via either panel face. Examples 6 and 7 In the examples, the inventors addressed the bulging effect and damaged joints by extending the fixing region of the joins described in Examples 3 and 5, adding 10 upper and lower face routing, and removing the angled tongue and groove shoulders to enable thinner panels. The inventors included face routing on both faces (A and B) of the panels, and retained the expansion / contraction gaps in the tongue and groove regions to enable the panels to respond to climatic change (temperature, relative humidity) without causing visible gaps (from contraction) 15 or bulging joins (from expansion) in the panel faces. By increasing the fixing region length, a broader, flat interface is provided whereby the panels could be securely fastened to furring channel, studs or other supports without causing the MDF to bulge in the join areas around the screw heads, or for the screws to tear out and break the joins. 20 In Example 6, panels made using the joins shown in Fig. 11 were successfully installed according to the method described in Example 4, using the B face visible and fixing through fixing region FR-B. The inventors found that the panels could be successfully installed with either A or B panel face visible, using both screws or nails to fix the panels. No join splitting or volcano effects were observed during 25 installation. The results are summarized in Table 1. It is noted that a fixing region, i.e., a ‘fixing region’, as set forth in the examples above, requires sufficient spacing to prevent bulging or the ‘volcano effect’ at the edge, tearing of the joint and also allowing for some lack of precision by the 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 installer. A magnitude of the ‘volcano’ effect may vary depending on the size of fasteners (particularly the fastener shank), as can be established from trial and experiment as seen in the examples set forth above and summarised below. A general guide of minimum adequate width of fixing region to fastener shank 5 dimension is in the order of 2.5D. Table 1. Summary of results from panel installation experiments Face profile Panel thickness Face visible FR-A FR-B Fixing Type Shank diameter Observation Example 1 v / butt 16 A 10 NA Nail 2 OK Example 2 R4 / R1 16 A 10 7 Nail 2 OK Example 3 R4 / R1 16 B 10 7 Screw 4.2 Failvolcano Example 4 R4 / R1 12 A 10 7 Screw 4.2 OK Example 5 R4 / R1 12 B 10 7 Screw 4.2 Fail-torn join Example 6 R4 / R1 12 A 18.5 12 Screw 4.2 OK Example 7 R4 / R1 12 B 18.5 12 Screw 4.2 OK 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 Table 2. The effect of fixing region width and screw shank diameter on installer accuracy Fixing region with visible B face (pencil line) Interface -screw shank diameter Width either side of the screw shank (assumes the screw is central) Accuracy required by the installer during screw placement Panel Thickness mm mm mm mm 16mm 6 2 1 1 12mm Example 4 7 3 1.5 2 12mm Example 6 12 8 4 4 5 Variations and modifications may be made to the parts previously described without departing from the spirit or ambit of the disclosure. In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary 10 implication, the word “comprise” or variations such as “comprises” or 2026202589 07 Apr 2026 “comprising” is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.
Claims
1. A building panel having opposite first and second panel faces and first and second complementary joining profiles at mutually opposite panel edges, whereinthe first joining profile comprising a tongue spaced from the first panel face and a groove disposed between the tongue and the second panel face and being spaced from the second panel face, and a tongue shoulder inboard from a distal end of the tongue extending to the first panel face, and a groove shoulder extending from the groove to the second panel face,the second joining profile comprising a tongue spaced from the second panel face and a groove disposed between the tongue and the first panel face and being spaced from the first panel face, and a tongue shoulder inboard from a distal end of the tongue extending to the second panel face and having a groove shoulder extending from the groove to the first panel face,the complementary joining profiles being configured such that when the panel is aligned with a like panel in edge to edge relation, the respective tongues and grooves of the complementary joining profiles locate in interfitting relation to form a joint allowing relative in plane movement between the panels whilst inhibiting relative out of plane movement, the respective tongue and groove shoulders of the complementary joining profiles being in opposing relation to define face profiles at the joint on the each of the opposite panel faces of the aligned panels, and whereinthe position and / or orientation of the groove shoulders and / or tongue shoulders on the respective joining profiles is not uniform such that the shape of the face profile formed at the joint on one face of the aligned panels is different from the shape of the face profile at the joint on the other face of the aligned panels and the groove is disposed inboard of the tongue in each of the first and second joining profile to form a fixing region for receiving fasteners to secure the panel to a supporting structure, wherein when either one of the joining2026202589 07 Apr 2026profiles is located in interfitting relation with a joining profile of a like panel to form the joint, the respective fixing region is overlayed by the joining profile of the like panel such the fixing region is caused to be internal to the joint to allow for concealed fixing at either of the complementary joining profiles of the panel.
2. A building panel according to claim 1, wherein the fixing regions extend from a fixing surface to a respective one of the first and second panel faces in each of the first and second joining profiles.
3. A building panel according to claims 1 or 2, wherein the fixing regions are disposed between a proximal end of the tongue shoulder and a distal end of the groove in each of the first and second joining profiles.
4. A building panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a shape of the face profile formed at the joint on one face of the aligned panels is the same as the shape of the face profile at the joint on the other face of the aligned panels.
5. A building panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the tongue shoulder in the second joining profile is disposed further inboard from the distal end of the tongue, than the tongue shoulder in the first joining profile.
6. A building panel according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the panel is arranged to be secured to a supporting structure by fasteners having a shank diameter (D) and a minimum width of the fixing region is equal to about 2.5D.
7. A building cladding comprising a plurality of building panels according to any preceding claim configured in interfitting relation.
8. A building panel having opposite first and second panel faces and first and second complementary joining profiles at mutually opposite panel edges, wherein the complementary joining profiles are configured such that when the panel is aligned with a like panel in edge to edge relation, the complementary joining2026202589 07 Apr 2026profiles locate in interfitting relation to form a joint allowing relative in plane movement between the panels whilst inhibiting relative out of plane movement, portions of the complementary joining profiles at the joint being in opposing relation to define a respective face profile on each of the opposite panel faces of the aligned panels, and the position and / or orientation of the portions of the complementary joining profiles that define the respective face profiles is not uniform such that the shape of the face profile formed at a joint on one face of the aligned panels is different from the shape of the face profile at the joint on the other face of the aligned panels, and each of the first and second joining profile comprises a fixing region for receiving fasteners to secure the panel to a supporting structure, wherein when either one of the joining profiles is located in interfitting relation with a joining profile of a like panel to form the joint, the respective fixing region is caused to be internal to the joint to allow for concealed fixing at either of the complementary joining profiles of the panel.
9. A building panel according to claim 8, wherein the first and second joining profiles include at least one tongue on at least one of the first and second joining profiles and at least one groove on the other of the at least one of the first and second joining profiles, wherein the complementary joining profiles are configured such that when the panel is aligned with a like panel in edge to edge relation, the respective at least one tongue and groove of the complementary joining profiles locate in interfitting relation to form the joint.
10. A building panel according to claim 9, wherein each of the first and second joining profiles include a tongue and a groove and wherein the complementary joining profiles are configured such that when the panel is aligned with a like panel in edge to edge relation, the respective tongues and grooves of the complementary joining profiles locate in interfitting relation to form the joint.
11. A building panel according to claim 10, and wherein the groove is disposed inboard of the tongue in each of the first and second joining profile to form the fixing regions.2026202589 07 Apr 202612. A building panel according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the first and second complementary joining profiles are further configured such that that when the panel is aligned in edge to edge relation with a like panel that is inverted with respect to the panel, the first joining profiles of each panel locate in interfitting relation to form a joint allowing relative in plane movement between the panels whilst inhibiting relative out of plane movement.
13. A building panel according to any one of claim 8 to 12, wherein the first and second complementary joining profiles are further configured such that that when the panel is aligned in edge to edge relation with a like panel that is inverted with respect to the panel, the second joining profiles of each panel locate in interfitting relation to form a joint allowing relative in plane movement between the panels whilst inhibiting relative out of plane movement.
14. A building panel having opposite first and second panel faces and first and second complementary joining profiles at mutually opposite panel edges, wherein the complementary joining profiles are configured such that when the panel is aligned with a like panel in edge to edge relation, the complementary joining profiles locate in interfitting relation to form a joint, wherein portions of the complementary joining profiles at the joint being in opposing relation to define a respective face profile on each of the opposite panel faces of the aligned panels, and the position and / or orientation of the portions of the complementary joining profiles that define the respective face profiles is not uniform such that the shape of the face profile formed at the joint on one face of the aligned panels is different from the shape of the face profile at the joint on the other face of the aligned panels, the panel further comprises fixing regions for receiving fasteners to secure the interfitting panels to a supporting structure with one or more fixing regions configured to receive fasteners to enable the interfitting panels to be secured to the supporting structure with the first panel face facing outwardly from the support structure, and one or more fixing regions configured to receive fasteners to enable the interfitting panels to be secured to the supporting structure with the second panel face facing outwardly from the support structure, wherein the fixing regions2026202589 07 Apr 2026are located in the joint formed from the interfitting panels so as to conceal the fasteners received thereon.
15. A building panel according to claim 14, wherein a portion of the joining profile of the like panel is caused to overlay at least one of the fixing regions on the panel when the panels are in interfitting relation so as to cause the at least one of the fixing regions to be internal to the joint to conceal the fasteners received thereon.
16. A building panel according to claim 14 and 15, wherein, when the panels are in interfitting relation, a face profile is provided at one of the panel faces, and wherein at least one of the fixing regions is disposed within the face profile such that the fasteners received therein are concealed.
17. A building panel according to claim 16, wherein the face profile is routed within the face of the panel.
18. A building panel according to claim 16, wherein the first and second complementary joining profiles include shoulders extending to at least one of the opposite first and second panel faces, wherein when the panel is in interfitting relation with a like panel to form a joint, the shoulder of the panel is in opposing relation with the shoulder of the like panel to define the face profile and wherein at least one of the fixing regions is disposed between the opposing shoulders so that fasteners received therein are located within the face profile and are concealed.