First introduced more than 150 years ago, facade systems have evolved a great deal over time. Modern curtain wall systems blend durability and performance effortlessly, making them the norm in most urban high-rises.
However, for contractors new to the industry, understanding the various types of facade systems used in commercial towers and large-scale development can be a challenge.
So we at HaloGlass – Toronto’s top supplier of aluminum windows and doors, have taken it upon ourselves to educate you about the different facade system types, starting with unitized curtain wall systems. Let’s begin!
What Is A Unitized Curtain Wall System?
A typical unitized curtain wall system is made up of a couple of essential components, primarily large, preassembled facade panels and frames that hold them all together. They are fabricated off-site in a factory and delivered on-site, ready for immediate installation.
Core components include:
- Aluminum framing
- Glazing or glass panels
- Seals and gaskets
- Insulation components
Once pre-assembled, the complete system is installed onto the building’s structure floor by floor. This helps in creating that continuous glass envelope that has become synonymous with modern, glamorous high-rises.
One of the main advantages of the unitized curtain wall system’s off-site fabrication process is that it nearly eliminates the need for complex, expensive, and time-consuming fabrication work on-site.
Why Unitized Curtain Wall Systems Are Used In High-Rise Construction
Unitized facade systems are widely used in high-rise projects because of the efficiency and consistency they offer. Plus, they bring more unique benefits to the table, which include:
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Speedy installation
Since panels arrive pre-assembled, onsite crews do not have to wait for every piece to be built onsite. They can begin the installation process right away, guaranteeing faster project completion.
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Improved quality control
Prefabricated curtain systems are built under controlled conditions, allowing for tighter tolerances. This results in more consistent and long-lasting performance, thereby reducing the maintenance costs of a building over time.
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Reduced site labor
Pre-assembled systems do not require extensive coordination with other trades or complex installation processes. Crews only need to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to get the best results. This is another way facade systems can help contractors save time and money.
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Safe installation at height
Another major benefit of prefabricated facade systems is that they can often be installed from within a building’s interior. This minimizes the need for external scaffolding while keeping crews safe as they work at heights.
Key Performance Advantages Of Unitized Curtain Wall Systems
Engineered to meet the highest performance standards Ontario buildings demand, properly built unitized curtain wall systems bring the following advantages:
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Air and water tightness
Factory-installed seals and gaskets keep rainwater, dust, and harsh winds out, maintaining indoor comfort and cleanliness.
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Thermal performance
The combination of high-performance glazing and thermally broken aluminum frames reduces heat transfer, keeping indoor temperatures comfortable year-round.
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Movement accommodation
High-rise buildings often experience floor deflection and thermal expansion. Unitized systems are built to handle any type of building movement without compromising their performance.
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Structural integrity
Designed to meet the load requirements of individual projects, these structures are capable of transferring loads back to the building while preserving their alignment.
When To Use Unitized Curtain Wall Systems
Unitized facade systems are the best choice for:
- High-rise buildings
- Large commercial projects
- Developments that feature a repetitive facade layout
- Projects with tight timelines
They are typically not used for smaller or highly irregular projects that demand customization at every opening. While they’re an expensive choice for the former, they can turn installation into an extremely complex process for the latter.
Conclusion
One of the most efficient and reliable facade systems out there, unitized curtain wall systems improve the aesthetics of high-rises while being easy to maintain. They are also faster to install, offer consistent quality and last a lifetime if sourced from the right place.
HaloGlass, supplier of superior pre-assembled aluminum windows and doors across Ontario, is here to be your curtain wall systems partner. Our premium solutions offer consistent quality and can be customized to meet the requirements of any project. Contact us to learn more about our facade systems.