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Understanding curtain walls from A to Z
Curtain walls are more than just an aesthetic feature. They represent a significant evolution in modern architecture, combining design and functionality. This guide explores their role in today’s buildings, their advantages and limitations, and their impact on the construction and real estate industries.
What is a curtain wall?
A curtain wall is a lightweight façade system that is independent of the building’s structural frame. Unlike traditional walls, it bears only its own weight and environmental loads (such as wind and snow), leaving the main structure to support the building’s overall weight.
Typically made of glass, framed with materials like aluminum or steel, it creates a visually appealing and functional envelope that redefines the look of modern buildings.
How do curtain walls work?
Curtain walls act as a protective barrier, ensuring:
Water and air tightness – Preventing air and water infiltration into the building.
Insulation – Using advanced glazing systems to reduce energy loss and enhance indoor comfort.
Structural resistance – Designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, protecting occupants from strong winds and temperature changes.
Curtain walls are assembled using factory-fabricated modules, which are then installed on-site. Their modular nature allows for great design flexibility, particularly for complex architectural projects.
Advantages of curtain walls
Natural light
Curtain walls maximize daylight penetration, reducing the need for artificial lighting and enhancing occupant comfort.
Contemporary aesthetics
They provide buildings with a modern, elegant look, transforming even simple structures into architectural masterpieces.
Energy efficiency
With double or triple glazing and thermal break systems, curtain walls improve building energy performance. Innovations like polyamide pressure plates (used by companies like Stekar) help further reduce thermal losses.
Design flexibility
Curtain walls can be adapted to any project, from small storefronts to high-rise buildings. Their modular design meets even the most complex architectural requirements.
Weather protection
Engineered to withstand wind, rain, and temperature fluctuations, curtain walls ensure long-term durability.
Challenges and limitations of curtain walls
High initial cost
Manufacturing and installation, though standardized, require a significant investment.
Regular maintenance
To maintain their appearance and performance, curtain walls require frequent upkeep, including glass cleaning, joint inspections, and frame checks.
Complex installation
Installing curtain walls demands specialized expertise and high precision—errors can lead to air and water infiltration or poor thermal performance.
Environmental impact
Materials like aluminum and glass have a high carbon footprint, although efforts are being made to enhance their sustainability and recyclability.
Types of curtain walls
Framed curtain wall
- Made of a visible or concealed frame in aluminum or steel, they are robust and capable of supporting large glazed surfaces.
Curtain walls with caps and pressure plates
- This curtain wall system features caps and pressure plates. Designed to deliver a sleek and modern aesthetic, it is ideal for projects where linear design and energy efficiency are essential.
SSG (silicone structural glazing) curtain wall
- These curtain walls offer a minimalist and sleek aesthetic; silicone is used to secure the glazing, minimizing visible frames.
Curtain walls with operable vents
Discreetly integrated into our curtain walls, this frameless ventilation solution offers a seamless and minimalist aesthetic while maintaining the purity of the architectural design.
Prefabricated curtain walls
- The glazing is directly integrated into the frame of the factory-prefabricated curtain walls, making installation easy, fast, and efficient.
The STE-6000 curtain wall, shown here, incorporates silicone gaskets and 65 mm mullions offering an optimum balance between visual finesse and robustness. With adjustable mullion depths (25 to 190 mm) and the possibility of custom configurations, this system adapts to a variety of projects while meeting ASTM, NFRC and CSA standards. It is compatible with double, triple or laminated glazing, and designed to offer excellent thermal performance.
The system was used for the Lasalle High School, a major project in Montreal.
The impact of curtain walls on architecture and real estate
Curtain walls are not just about aesthetics. They actively contribute to:
- Increasing the value of real estate through their aesthetics and durability
- Reducing the carbon footprint of buildings by promoting better energy efficiency
- Creating modern living and working spaces that prioritize natural light and comfort
Thanks to innovations throughout the marketplace in North America where the glass is now able to give great performance (modularity, double and triple glazing, polyamide panels), these systems adapt to the diverse needs of real estate projects, whether they are small commercial buildings or residential towers.
Conclusion
Curtain walls are more than just a façade—they are an architectural solution that combines design, performance, and durability. If you’re considering a curtain wall for your project, take the time to assess your specific needs and consult experts to maximize its potential.
By working with partners like Stekar, you gain access to modern, flexible solutions tailored to each project’s unique requirements, ensuring a result that is both aesthetically impressive and functionally efficient.
To dive even deeper into the technical world of curtain walls, you can download the necessary technical sheets for your projects. Feel free to consult the experts at Stekar for more details.