Curtain Wall Systems Types & Functions

Modern architecture is characterized by a fusion between beauty and function known as curtain walls. These marvels of architecture have the ability to transform ordinary structures into works of art that are both functional and aesthetically stunning. The word "curtain wall" is relatively well-known throughout the entire construction industry. It refers to the external wall structure of a home.

What is a curtain wall?

Curtain wall systems are external, non-structural building coverings that are attached to the exterior of a building. Unlike other materials used in construction, curtain walls are thin and light, and made from glass and aluminium. They have become a defining feature of the modern skyscraper. The extensive use of glass provides a sleek, lightweight aesthetic compared to traditional brick and concrete walls.

Types of Curtain Walls

Stick-on Curtain Walls System

The building framework is used to combine the components of this system. This method is most commonly used in low-rise buildings or small spaces. This is due to the fact that in order to go to higher heights, outdoor accessibility is required. This style ensures versatility because it permits on-site modifications. Even while it lowers transportation costs, the labor and time costs should not be disregarded as these can occasionally be rather high. As they come in parts, these components can be cut, machined, assembled, and altered to meet the project's specific measurements.

Advantages

• Suitable for complicated and angular facades
• Perfect for all kinds of structure as their sightlines are smaller than those in unitized ones. 
• Quick changes as per building sequence flexibility 

Unitised Curtain System:

This system was assembled at the factory. The components from the factory are assembled into a single unit and transported directly to the site. Individual installation of components is no longer necessary. This product's dimensions are proportional to floor to floor height. Since they do not need external support, such as cranes or scaffolding as they are most commonly used in high-rise buildings. The only thing needed is a mini-crane or a temporary hoist. This system is completely made in factories which makes the construction process rapid and high quality.

Advantages

• Building is completed fast because the panels are assembled before they arrive on site.
• High quality assurance as major assembly is done in a regulated industrial environment which lowers the chances of errors.

Functions of Curtain Systems in the Buildings

Water Penetration Elimination

The fundamental function of any facade is water penetration. In this case, it is not possible to use a system of sealed curtains that are completely impermeable so two levels of prevention is used in them. At the primary stage, complete water entry is protected. If this fails, then a secondary stage is required to allow percolated waters to drain.

Air impermeability

This function is more concerned with the environment, reducing carbon dioxide emission due to heat loss or gain in the outer and inner environment.

Resistance to wind, thermal action and acoustic effect

The wind action is transferred to the floors of the building by the facade. Building curtain wall systems consisting of large panels have a typical one-way span. Every floor supports a certain level of wind loads on a structure. A facade is required to have thermal insulation in order to reduce CO2 and energy consumption. Insulated materials can be used in both transparent and opaque areas. The city centred building also needs to have acoustic insulation between the inside and outside environment.

Solar levels

It is possible to reduce the amount of solar radiation by adding a selective coating on the surface of a glass. This coating is called a selective coating because different wavelengths of solar radiation are selectively allowed through the coating. Visible wavelengths of light can pass more freely through them as compared to infrared waves. As displays of materials can be damaged by ultraviolet radiation, we can solve that by simply applying a UV-inhibiting coating to the glazing surface.

Argos Systems: A Trusted Name or Brand for Curtain Wall Systems

Argos Systems is a renowned name in building curtain wall facade that stands out from the crowd. Choose an exterior envelope that will withstand all kinds of weather and looks stunning.

Curtain walling is an excellent way to add aesthetic and functional value to any new or renovation project. The range is varied and includes stick-on curtain walls, unitised curtain system and unique windows wall systems. All high-end aluminium products that take the design and performance of your building to another level.