Curtain walls, The Cities full make-over, Types and Challenges
Curtain walls are non-structural building components that are used to provide an outer skin to a building. They are typically made of glass, aluminum, or other materials and can be designed in several ways. The three most common types of curtain walls are unitized, structural glazing, and traditional curtain walls. Each type has its own unique characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages.
Unitized Curtain Walls: Unitized curtain walls are pre-fabricated panels that are assembled offsite and then transported to the building site for installation. These panels are typically made of aluminum frames and glass or other materials. One of the primary advantages of unitized curtain walls is that they can be installed quickly and efficiently, which can save time and money. Additionally, unitized curtain walls are typically more resistant to water and air infiltration than traditional curtain walls.
Structural Glazing Curtain Walls: Structural glazing curtain walls are similar to unitized curtain walls, but they are typically made of glass panels that are held in place with structural silicone sealant. This type of curtain wall can provide a sleek, seamless appearance to a building, as the glass panels appear to float on the building's surface. One of the primary advantages of structural glazing curtain walls is their aesthetic appeal. However, this type of curtain wall can be more expensive and difficult to install than traditional curtain walls.
Traditional Curtain Walls: Traditional curtain walls are made of aluminum frames that are fitted with glass or other materials on site. This type of curtain wall is typically less expensive than unitized or structural glazing curtain walls, and can be customized to fit the specific needs of a building. However, traditional curtain walls can be more vulnerable to water and air infiltration than other types of curtain walls, and may require more maintenance over time.
In conclusion, there are several types of curtain walls, each with its own unique characteristics and advantages. Unitized curtain walls are efficient and resistant to water and air infiltration, structural glazing curtain walls provide a sleek appearance, and traditional curtain walls are customizable and less expensive. When choosing a curtain wall type, it is important to consider the specific needs of the building and the budget constraints of the project.
Here are the challenges that might be faced in the design and installation for each type of curtain wall:
Unitized Curtain Walls:
Transportation and storage of large pre-fabricated panels can be challenging.
The design of the panel joints and connections must be carefully planned to ensure a tight fit and avoid water and air infiltration.
The installation process requires specialized equipment and trained professionals, which can be expensive and time-consuming.
Structural Glazing Curtain Walls:
The installation process can be complex and require specialized training and equipment.
The structural silicone sealant must be carefully applied to avoid leaks or failure over time.
Structural glazing curtain walls require careful design and engineering to ensure that they can withstand wind loads and other environmental factors.
Traditional Curtain Walls:
The installation process can be time-consuming and require specialized equipment and skilled labor.
The design of the frame and glass connections must be carefully planned to ensure a tight fit and avoid water and air infiltration.
Traditional curtain walls may require more maintenance over time compared to other types of curtain walls.
In addition to these challenges, all types of curtain walls may face common challenges such as accounting for thermal expansion and contraction, wind loads, water leakage, and access during installation. It is important for engineers and architects to carefully consider these challenges and develop a comprehensive plan for designing and installing curtain walls to ensure their long-term performance and functionality.
