Curtain walling meaning is becoming increasingly popular in modern commercial construction projects due to their ability to maximize the amount of natural light entering a building, promoting a more open and airy work environment. They also offer a sleek and stylish aesthetic that can be customized to match the architectural vision for a project. However, several factors need to be considered when choosing the right curtain walling for a project.
A curtain wall is a thin aluminum-framed wall containing infills such as glass or metal panels. It does not carry the floor or roof loads of the building, but transfers wind and seismic forces back to the structural framing through connections at the floor line. This type of system is typically installed offsite and delivered in unitized sections for installation on-site.
Energy Efficiency
A key function of curtain walls is to minimize energy consumption by controlling solar glare and solar heat gain, as well as reducing air infiltration. These goals are accomplished by using various types of glazing, including insulated spandrel panels, solid insulated metal panels, or insulating glass units (IGUs).
Acoustics
Curtain walls can help reduce disruptive noise from the exterior by incorporating sound-attenuating infill and making the construction as airtight as possible. They can also be designed to mitigate the transmission of vibrations and sounds within a building by using varying glass thicknesses, STC ratings, and pane materials.
Water protection is critical for curtain walls, and includes drainage details, sealants, interior vapor barriers, perimeter flashings, and long-term weather seals. These products are crucial to prevent air and water infiltration, which can lead to premature deterioration and failure of the curtain wall components.