Curtain Walling Systems
As the name suggests, curtain walling systems separate the building interior and exterior. They have superior structural strength compared to window walls and can accommodate much larger glass sizes. They also have the benefit of providing better energy efficiency through a range of glazing options.
Unlike storefront systems, curtain walling is designed to span multiple floors and take into account important elements such as thermal expansion and contraction; the sway and movement of a building; seismic requirements; water diversion and thermal efficiency for cost-effective heating, cooling and lighting. In addition, a curtain wall system can provide a more aesthetically pleasing modern appearance for your building.
Unveiling the Future: The Innovative Features and Benefits of Curtain Walling Systems
Stick curtain wall systems require the components to be assembled piece by piece at the site. They are mainly used in low rise buildings or in small regions where the exterior access is easy. However, they are a time-consuming and labor-intensive option. In contrast, unitized systems offer a more efficient installation process as the whole component is bought together from the factory and only needs to be connected at the site.
Aluminum has a high heat transfer coefficient, resulting in large losses through the curtain wall mullions. These losses can be reduced by the inclusion of a thermal break, which is a barrier between the exterior and interior metals of the fenestration frame.
The main materials that comprise a curtain wall are either float glass or extruded aluminum, which have extraordinary service life potential (indefinite for the glass and hundreds of years for the extrusions) if they are properly maintained. It is therefore important that they are designed for the long term, taking into account maintenance, repairs and replacements.