Decoding The Anatomy Of A Curtain Wall

Lending a sophisticated air to modern high-rises while protecting them against impact from the elements, modern curtain wall systems blend performance and durability effortlessly. However, an intricate framework lies behind their sleek appearance – the kind that actively contributes to the maintenance of a building’s envelope performance and structural coordination. For contractors and builders, understanding this framework is essential as it can help you specify your project correctly and ensure optimal installation and sequencing on-site. 

In today’s blog, HaloGlass – the top supplier of advanced curtain walls in Ontario – will break down the individual components of a curtain wall system and show you how each of them contributes to its overall performance. 

What Are The Core Components Of A Curtain Wall?

Curtain walls are typically made up of four key elements – frames, glass panels, anchors, and thermal breaks. Each of these parts plays a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the entire system. 

Aluminum frames: The backbone of curtain walls

Serving as the foundation of any curtain wall system, aluminum frames form the vertical mullions and horizontal transoms of the entire structure. The core purpose of these extruded profiles is to support the glass and transfer load back to the building’s structure so the system remains stable. 

The reasons why aluminum is used as the framing material include: 

• The strength-to-weight ratio of aluminum is reasonably high 
• It is corrosion-resistant 
• It can be fabricated precisely to match a project’s exact specifications
• It is highly compatible with larger glass spans 

Ensuring the frame accounts for wind loads, floor-to-floor movement, and building tolerances is critical when planning curtain walls for a high-rise. Make sure you get reinforced frames with proper mullion sizes. That is key to preventing deflection and preserving the long-term stability of the entire structure. 

Glass units: More than windows to the world

The most visible part of any curtain wall system, glass units are much more than just an aesthetic component. They also play a huge role in the thermal performance and safety requirements of the entire structure. 

When specifying your project, you have a couple of distinct glass options to choose from:

• Tempered glass for improved shatter resistance
• Laminated glass for enhanced impact resistance
• Insulated glass units for better thermal control 

Your choice of glass among these three should be dependent on your project’s height, its wind load calculations, acoustic requirements, and energy requirements. We suggest using laminated glass for high-rise projects. It’s safer as it doesn’t shatter upon impact. You can also use insulated glass to improve thermal performance and occupant comfort. 

Anchors and connections: Keeping it all together 

The anchor system is responsible for connecting a curtain wall system to the structural slab or edge of the building you are working on. You must pick and choose anchors carefully. They must be able to transfer loads while making room for movements induced by thermal expansion, floor deflection, and building sway. 

Here are the factors you should consider when selecting connectors: 

• Load transfer paths that account for live and dead loads
• Allowance for vertical and horizontal movement
• Slab edge tolerances
• Installation sequencing 

Issues such as misalignment, water filtration problems, and unnecessary delays can arise with poorly coordinated anchors. However, collaborating early with your structural engineer and facade consultant for anchor selection can prevent this. 

Thermal breaks: Ensuring optimal comfort

In provinces such as Ontario, which face really harsh winters, thermal breaks have become a critical part of modern curtain wall systems. A non-conductive material, typically made of polyamide, a thermal break ensures the following:

• Minimizes heat transfer via the frame
• Enhances the overall energy efficiency of the building
• Minimizes the risk of condensation 
• Helps projects meet their energy requirements 

As a contractor, you need to bear in mind that the thermal performance of a curtain wall system is not simply restricted to its glass panel – it also extends to its frame design and thermal breaks, with both playing a significant role in its U-value.

Conclusion

Curtain wall systems come with their own set of intricacies and components that make them tick. As a contractor, knowing about their different parts – from aluminum frames to glass panels, anchors, and thermal breaks – can help you specify your project correctly, thus improving coordination, decreasing site issues, and ensuring the installation of a high-performing envelope. 

Wondering where you will find the best curtain walls for your high-rise project? HaloGlass is the top supplier of advanced curtain wall systems designed to suit Ontario’s climate. Contact us to get code-compliant facades and curtain walls today.