The curtain wall glazing method of glazing allows glass to be used safely in large uninterrupted areas, creating consistent attractive facades. This type of non-structural outer covering is very important to modern building construction, especially where transparency and light penetration are important design factors. It also provides flexibility in the design of a building’s facade to accommodate differing architectural requirements. NSG Group’s wide range of glass products for curtain walls allow the architect to control all aspects of performance including thermal and solar considerations, sound, security and aesthetics.

The main materials for curtain walls are aluminum and glass, which provide a sleek and contemporary appearance. Glass is a popular choice because of its ability to let natural light penetrate the interior of a building. It can also be coated with different tints or finishes to suit the architect’s aesthetic vision. Curtain walls are usually fixed, but they can be fitted with windows and vents if necessary.

See Through Brilliance: A Deep Dive into Curtain Wall Glazing Techniques

Curtain walls can be designed as a unitized system with large prefabricated panels or as a stick-framed curtain wall, which uses mullions to divide the large panes of glass into smaller units. The glass can be sealed within the frame or a separate weather barrier can be installed, which is not only more economical but also has greater longevity.

The attachments that hold the glass in place in a curtain wall are usually stainless steel bolts, which are screwed into the aluminium extrusions. These can be hidden behind decorative or structural elements, such as brise soleil and external fins that provide shading or photo-voltaic panels that generate energy.