What Are the Different Types of Curtain Walls?

A curtain wall is a lightweight frameless structure that is installed near the exterior of a building to protect it from weather such as heavy rain, snowfall, air pollutants or dust. Because it is made of light weight but high quality materials, it does not require much support and does not even put pressure on the building walls. It is paired with glass to create a tremendous lighting effect inside the building.

What are the different types of curtain walls?

Curtain walls are usually classified as unitized or stick systems (AKA modular curtain walls). These categories refer to the different manufacturing and installation methods used.

Stick Systems

The curtain wall frame (mullions) and vision glass panels of a stick system are installed one piece at a time which allows for adjustments to be made on site.

Unitised Systems

For unitized systems, a single unit or several large units are made and assembled in the factory before being sent to the building site where they are installed. This helps save on installation costs and time.

The size of a single unit is typically the distance of one story from floor to floor of the building.

Natural Stone Curtain Wall

Curtain walls may also be classified into one of the following categories:

Face-sealed

Water-managed

Pressure-equalized

Pressure equalized systems offer the highest level of weather protection as the exterior face of the glass and glazing act as a rain screen. An air barrier inside the system helps equalize the pressure, preventing water from penetrating.

Appearance and Appeal

If you are looking for the best aesthetics for your building, then curtain walls can also contribute a lot as these walls made of aluminum and paired with glass can give your building's facade an attractive and impressive look that can easily attract visitors. Even the latest and unique curtain wall designs can enhance your brand image and give your building a professional look that is important for impressing business clients and customers.

Reduces building sway

Curtain walls reduce sway throughout the building, resulting in a safer structure. By distributing kinetic energy throughout the frame and structure, curtain walls are able to balance any stresses on the building. Overall, this creates a building that is more likely to withstand strong winds. Reducing building sway is particularly useful in taller buildings and also makes the building more comfortable for the occupants.

Glass Curtain Wall

Thermal Efficiency

When properly treated and glazed, curtain walls can also greatly improve the thermal efficiency of a building. As an additional layer of material in the building, curtain walls stabilize internal temperatures and reduce the operating costs of the building itself. The additional glazing reduces UV rays, which will prevent rapid fading or degradation of the building's contents.  

Insulation from air and water

The primary purpose of a curtain wall is to keep air and water out of a building, essentially acting as both a buffer and an insulator. Buildings with curtain walls will be easier (and more affordable) to maintain and will often last longer because they have an additional protective cover built in.

For an accurate quote, get in touch with Herbert with the details of your project. Our friendly team of experts can help you find the ideal solution to achieve the highest standard results.