What is a curtain wall?

A curtain wall is a non-structural exterior building wall that is typically made of glass, metal, or composite materials. It is designed to resist air and water infiltration, seismic forces, and wind loads, while transferring the weight of the wall to the building's main structure.

Curtain walls are often used in modern high-rise buildings because they are lightweight, aesthetically pleasing, and provide an abundance of natural light to the interior. They can also be customized to suit the specific design and functional requirements of a building.

There are two main types of curtain walls: unitized and stick-built. Unitized curtain walls are prefabricated off-site and assembled in large sections, while stick-built curtain walls are assembled on-site piece by piece.

Curtain walls are typically designed to allow for thermal expansion and contraction, as well as accommodate building movement. They also have to meet strict building codes and standards to ensure their safety and performance. Regular maintenance and inspections are necessary to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of a curtain wall system.