A curtain wall is a non-structural exterior building envelope that does not support the building’s weight (LL. DL. WL). It is typically made of aluminum frames with glass or metal panels as infill. While it doesn’t bear the structural load, it plays a crucial role in weatherproofing, aesthetics, and energy efficiency.
What is a curtain wall?
A curtain wall is an exterior cladding system that is typically framed with aluminum and filled with glass, metal panels, or thin stone. Unlike traditional walls, curtain walls are non-load-bearing, meaning they don’t support the structural weight of the building. Instead, they are affixed to the building’s frame, creating visually striking facades and allowing for diverse architectural designs.
The Technical Breakdown of Curtain Walls
Curtain walls consist of several components:
- Frames: Typically made of aluminum because of its strength, durability and lightweight properties. The frames hold the in-fill and are attached to the building’s structural elements.
- In-fill: These can be glass, metal panels or thin stone. Glass is commonly used for its transparency and ability to create an open, airy feel. Low emissivity (low-E) glass improves energy efficiency by reducing heat transfer.
- Anchors: Connection points where the curtain wall is attached to the building’s structural frame. These are critical to the stability and integrity of the wall system.
Advantages of Curtain Walls
- Aesthetic Appeal: Curtain walls provide a modern, elegant look, enhancing the building’s visual appeal and allowing natural light to flood interior spaces.
- Energy Efficiency: High-performance glazing and thermal breaks in the framing can significantly improve a building’s energy efficiency, reducing heating and cooling costs.
- Weather Resistance: Curtain walls act as a barrier against rain, wind, and temperature extremes, protecting the building’s interior and contributing to its longevity.
- Design Flexibility: Architects can create complex, innovative designs using curtain walls, accommodating various shapes and forms without compromising structural integrity.
- Lightweight Construction: Being non-load-bearing, curtain walls are lighter than traditional walls, making them ideal for high-rise buildings where weight is a concern.
Types of Curtain Walls
Stick System Curtain Walls
Stick systems are assembled on-site from individual components, including vertical mullions and horizontal rails.
| Pros | Cons |
| High flexibility in design | Labor-intensive |
| Suitable for complex building geometries | Time-consuming installation |
Unitized Curtain Walls
These are prefabricated units manufactured in a factory and then assembled on-site.
| Pros | Cons |
| Faster installation | Higher initial cost |
| Better quality control | Limited design flexibility after production |
| Reduced on-site labor costs |
Installation Process
- Design and Engineering: Detailed design and engineering ensure the curtain wall system meets structural and aesthetic requirements.
- Fabrication: Prefabrication in a controlled factory environment ensures high-quality production of unitized systems.
- Installation: Stick systems are assembled piece by piece on-site, while unitized systems involve hoisting prefabricated units into place and securing them to the building frame.
- Glazing and Sealing: After the framework is installed, glazing (glass installation) and sealing are performed to ensure weather-tightness and thermal insulation.
Maintenance and Durability
Curtain walls require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. This includes cleaning glass surfaces, inspecting seals and joints for wear, and checking for any structural damage. Proper maintenance can extend the lifespan of curtain walls, providing long-term benefits.
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