Curtain Wall Vs Windows

Reviewing the features and differences of these systems with the product.

Curtain wall vs windows.

Storefront is defined as a non residential non load bearing assembly of commercial entrance systems and windows usually spanning between the floor and the structure above designed for high use and strength. Installation specifics and benefits. If installed correctly curtain wall systems provide excellent structural integrity as there are fewer mullions and joints required when compared to most window wall systems. In effect curtain walls which are non load bearing hang like curtains from the structure.

They consist of vision glazing as well as opaque spandrel panels. A window wall is achieved by placing glazing between a building s concrete slabs using the slabs as structural support. Vision glazing simply means that the glass is transparent or translucent. Curtainwall and storefront systems share similar functions and appearance.

Window walls are put between the slabs and actually rest on the slab itself the mullion does overhang the slab by about 1 so that a spandrel panel can cover the slab. Curtain wall installation is a complex process and can be more expensive than other systems. The systems are designed to best suit the application for which they are intended. What s the difference between storefront window wall and curtain wall.

Both are designed to protect the building and its occupants from weather while providing daylight and views of the outside. That is where the similarity ends. Curtain wall vs window wall. Unlike windows placed into a wall also known as punched windows curtain walls can comprise the entire outer skin of the building.

Due to the great structural strength curtain wall can handle larger glass sizes than window wall. These panels which are typically pre manufactured are sealed with caulking and tape and like curtain walls they are non load bearing. A spandrel panel is an opaque thermally insulated unit in the curtain wall. They require little maintenance.

This is the exterior wall of the building and a number of factors determine a storefront vs curtain wall. Curtain wall is utilized for casings that are 13 feet or higher. Acting as a single unit curtain walls are highly resistant to moisture wind heat and earthquakes. A curtain wall is hung off the edge of a slab usually 4 or 5 inches using metal brackets that are cast into the slab.

It can fill. Since curtain wall is attached from the outside of a building small cranes and boom lifts most often provided by the installer are typically required for installation. Key differences in storefront vs. Window walls alternatively are mounted in between the concrete floor slabs.