How to look at glass curtain wall systems widely used in the commercial buildings today

In the modern buildings, curtain walls are often considered part of a building envelope. Curtain wall system provides a modern finish with clean lines and it is extremely flexible in construction projects, giving architects the flexibility to create a building with a unique look.

While most curtain walling projects incorporate transparent glass, plenty of other materials can also be used, providing a huge range of choice in terms of colors, finishes and textures. For example, colored opaque glass, metal and stone have all been used to great effect in curtain wall buildings today. Glass curtain walls are lightweight aluminum-framed facades housing glass or metal panels. These glazing systems don’t support the weight of a roof or floor. Instead, gravity loads and wind resistance transfer from the surface to the building’s floor line. Each glazing system requires careful integration with other adjacent structural elements such as wall claddings, roofs, and wall details. In addition, glass curtain wall systems have an advantage of maximizing the use of daylight in buildings, so as to bring natural light into difficult spaces.

In the modern commercial buildings, people will have a pleasant working day while they can enjoy wall-to-wall views outside, which can increase the perceived value of a property. In recent years, glass curtain walls are not exclusive to commercial buildings. They also provide viable glazing solutions for residences as well. In general, glass curtain walls are divided into two categories based on fabrication and installation methods: stick systems and unitized or modular systems. And the thermal efficiency of a glass curtain wall system depends on the glazing infill panel and the frame construction. Since aluminum has a high degree of thermal conductivity, aluminium curtain walls are very popular in some large commercial buildings in the world today, for it can transfer energy (heat) very rapidly.

However, with a glazed curtain wall used in commercial buildings, the biggest challenge is in balancing the desire for more natural daylight versus managing heat loss and gain. Having too much uncontrolled light can also result in glare. The goal is to find the right materials and glazes that will meet a building’s requirements. Dong Peng Bo Da Steel Pipe Group is a famous steel pipe manufacturer in China. We are committed to providing various types of steel products for your choice in your building project. Contact us if you have any need in the coming days.