Dan Gleeson of Reynaers UK discusses the benefits of aluminium curtain wall systems and considers the importance of working with experienced suppliers.
Forming an integral part of a building’s identity and character, facades have the ability to transform how we see architectural spaces. And, as architectural styles have shifted, glazed curtain wall systems have become increasingly popular.
As a typically non-load bearing structure which transmits the applied loads arising from wind, glass and framing (dead load) and occupant load back to the primary or secondary structure, there are two main types of curtain wall: stick and unitised facades.
Enclosing the envelope of the building to protect from the weather, insulate and provide an air seal, these two types of curtain wall can be adapted from their standard design to create bespoke features which are engineered to emphasise geometry or a particular aesthetic appearance. As a result, curtain wall systems equip architects with the freedom to create an aesthetically led façade which meets the specific performance requirements of a building.
As curtain walls span multiple floors and cover a large surface of a building, they form a significant part of the envelope. As such, systems can directly impact cost, design and delivery programme, in addition to key performance considerations – particularly in terms of water tightness and thermal characteristics, daylighting, ventilation regimes, acoustics and building movement. The test data for Reynaers systems speaks for itself, with systems such as CW 50 delivering all-round performance having passed CWCT Sequence B testing.
Ensuring correct specification
To unlock the full suite of benefits which are made possible through curtain walling, it is crucial to work closely with suppliers and collaborate with design teams from the very outset of a project. Particularly on large scale projects, such as high-rise buildings where curtain walling is most in demand, this approach ensures success.
Through our Consult programme, our in-house team of specialist consultants, engineers and technicians work closely with architects and building professionals to offer technical assistance. By working together, architects can lean on the expertise of the wider supply chain and bring their visions to life with glazed curtain wall systems, while weaving uncompromising performance and quality into the fabric of their buildings.