Overview of curtain walling

Curtain walling is a building technology used to create the outer walls of modern buildings. It is a non-structural element that is fixed to the building frame and provides the building with its external appearance. Curtain walling systems are commonly made up of lightweight materials such as glass, aluminium, and steel, and are often used in high-rise buildings. In this blog post, we will explore the various types of curtain walling, their functions, and the advantages of each.

1. Stick curtain walling is the most traditional type of curtain walling system. It involves the installation of individual components such as mullions and transoms, which are assembled on-site. This type of curtain walling system is highly customizable, allowing designers to create unique and complex building facades. Stick curtain walling also provides good structural support and can accommodate various glazing options.

Advantages:

• Highly customizable
• Provides good structural support
• Can accommodate various glazing options

2. Unitized curtain walling is a modern alternative to stick curtain walling. This type of curtain walling system is made up of pre-fabricated units that are manufactured in a factory and assembled on-site. Unitized curtain walling offers a faster and more efficient installation process compared to stick curtain walling. Additionally, it is highly weather-resistant, reducing the likelihood of water penetration and air leakage.

Advantages:

• Faster and more efficient installation process
• Highly weather-resistant
• Reduces likelihood of water penetration and air leakage

3. Structural glazing is a type of curtain walling system that involves the use of glass panels that are directly bonded to the building structure using structural silicone. This type of curtain walling system provides a seamless and uninterrupted facade, with no visible mullions or transoms. Structural glazing offers an aesthetically pleasing design and provides an abundance of natural light to the building's interior.

Advantages:

• Provides a seamless and uninterrupted facade
• Aesthetically pleasing design
• Provides an abundance of natural light to the building's interior

4. Point fixed glazing is a type of curtain walling system that involves the use of glass panels that are fixed to the building structure using small stainless steel bolts. This type of curtain walling system offers a minimalist design and allows for large glass panels to be used without the need for visible mullions or transoms. Point fixed glazing also offers excellent structural support and can withstand high wind loads.

Advantages:

• Minimalist design
• Allows for large glass panels without visible mullions or transoms
• Excellent structural support

Curtain walling is an essential element of modern building design. It provides a high level of customization, structural support, and weather-resistance, while also enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the building's exterior. When choosing a curtain walling system, it is essential to consider the specific needs of the building and select a system that provides the required functionality and advantages. Whether it is stick curtain walling, unitized curtain walling, structural glazing, or point fixed glazing, each system offers unique advantages that can enhance the building's overall design and functionality.