What Is Curtain Walling? A Guide to Modern Architectural Facades
When it comes to contemporary buildings, curtain walling is becoming an essential component that provides both functional and aesthetic benefits. In modern architecture it has quickly become a necessary feature with numerous advantages that enhance commercial projects.
What Is Curtain Walling?
Curtain walling is a custom-made, non-structural exterior covering to add a layer of protection to buildings. It shields from the elements, such as strong winds and rain, while simultaneously enhancing the visual appearance of the building. Curtain walling doesn’t support a building structure but is attached as a lightweight facade, shielding the interior building from thermal fluctuations and harsh weather.
It’s usually constructed from aluminium and combined with high-quality glass for a contemporary, sleek appearance that is ideal for commercial projects, especially multi-floor buildings such as offices.
Key Features of Curtain Walling
- Lightweight Construction: Curtain walling is crafted from lightweight materials, so it doesn’t add an intense load onto the structure of the building or compromise its integrity.
- Weather Protection: One of the notable features of curtain walling is that it acts as a barrier against weather, increasing the longevity and durability of a building’s external structure. It’s engineered to prevent water leaks, so water is efficiently drained away from the main building.
- Improved Energy Efficiency: Curtain wall systems can help to cut energy bills by reducing heat transfer and protecting from air and water breaches. The insulated glass can help maintain the building’s consistent temperature for a more pleasant environment.
- Enhanced Exterior: Curtain walling can instantly enhance the facade of a building, and with different finishes available, there is some design flexibility to suit different projects and visions.
Our Curtain Walling
We work alongside architects to create innovative curtain walling that is both dynamic and aesthetic, improving the appeal of any building. Our curtain walling is custom-made and can be crafted in different depths while ensuring the sight lines are the same for an elegant and uniform design. The curtain walling we offer can be created to fit seamlessly around existing windows and doors for convenience. Precision assembly is carried out for reliable and robust construction and our curtain walling systems are equipped with slots in the transom pressure plates and caps to drain water correctly. We offer some flexibility so that the system can contain glazing or panels of 6mm to 38mm thickness, which is compatible with various requirements.
Overall Features & Benefits
Curtain walling can enhance natural light for a more inviting interior. It also reduces noise pollution, which can be a plus for buildings in busy environments where street noise seeps through. The structure is low maintenance, resistant to rust and corrosion, and looks great throughout the seasons with minimal upkeep.
Applications of Curtain Walling
Curtain walling is ideal for both public and commercial buildings. It can be incorporated into office blocks, shopping centres, museums and schools amongst other buildings.
So, whether you’re refurbishing an existing building or planning a new project, we can work alongside you to create a highly functional, durable and efficient curtain walling system.
