Unitized curtain wall

Types of Unitized Curtain Wall

Unitized curtain walls are prefabricated wall systems that consist of individual units that include framing and infill materials, such as glass, stone, or metal panels. These units are completed in a factory and then installed as units on-site. This contrasts with stick-built systems, where the framing is installed on-site, and the infill is placed within the framing. Here are the various types of unitized curtain walls:

• Structural Sealant Glazed (SSG) Unitized Curtain Wall

  This type of unitized curtain wall is characterized by a sleek and modern aesthetic. It features large glass surfaces that provide natural lighting and unobstructed views. The glass panels are bonded to the frame using a structural silicone sealant. This not only secures the glass but also creates a smooth, frame-less appearance. The SSG unitized wall is not only visually appealing but also weather-resistant. It is designed to minimize air and water infiltration.

• Pre-Glazed Unitized Wall

  As the name implies, this type of wall is pre-glazed, meaning it is fitted with glass panels before leaving the manufacturing facility. This allows for quick and efficient installation on-site. These walls often feature aluminum frames, which provide a lightweight yet durable structure. They can be customized using various types of glass, including tinted, reflective, or insulated glass, to meet specific energy efficiency and aesthetic requirements.

• Metal Spandrel Panel Wall

  These unitized walls incorporate spandrel panels made of metal, such as aluminum or steel. These spandrel panels are located between the window openings and serve both structural and aesthetic functions. The metal spandrel panels add to the durability and strength of the wall system. Additionally, they provide opportunities for insulation, enhancing the energy efficiency of the building. These walls offer a distinctive look. The metallic spandrel panels contrast dramatically with the glass vision panels.

• Stone or Panelized Unitized Wall

  This type of unitized wall incorporates stone panels or other architectural panels instead of traditional glazing. These walls provide a more robust, elegant look. They feature solid, textured surfaces that enhance a building's visual appeal. These walls are heavier than other unitized walls. However, they are also very durable, offering longevity and low maintenance. They can also be fitted with insulation to improve a building’s energy efficiency.

Function and Feature of Unitized Curtain Wall

A unitized curtain wall is a prefabricated and modular exterior wall system for buildings. Its design and construction have several features that provide important functions, including:

• Modularity

  The unitized curtain wall is made up of self-contained units. Each unit has spandrel panels and vision glass. This modular design allows for quick assembly on-site. It also enables efficient quality control in the fabrication process.

• Integration

  Unitized curtain walls have integrated components. This includes framing, gaskets, and anchors. The integration provides a complete system that enhances performance. It also simplifies the installation process. Additionally, it minimizes potential weak points in the building envelope.

• Factory Fabrication

  The fabrication of the unitized curtain wall is done in a controlled environment. This is at the manufacturing facility. The manufacturing process involves advanced technology and precision tooling. This ensures consistency and accuracy. The factory fabrication minimizes on-site work. It also reduces the impact of weather conditions on the installation process. Furthermore, it provides a higher level of quality control.

• Structural Integrity

  The unitized curtain wall is designed to transfer loads. For example, dead loads and wind loads to the building's structural frame. It has a robust framing system that includes aluminum extrusions. This framing system provides strength and stability. It also ensures durability throughout the life cycle of the building.

• Thermal Performance

  The unitized curtain walls are designed to minimize thermal bridging. It contains insulation materials within the framing components. This insulation helps to reduce heat transfer. It also enhances the energy efficiency of the building. Additionally, these walls have high-performance glazing options. For instance, low-emissivity coatings and argon gas fills. These options contribute to overall thermal performance.

• Weather Resistance

  Unitized curtain walls have several features that enhance their weather resistance. For example, they have continuous gaskets. These gaskets create a seal between units. It prevents air and water infiltration. The gaskets also reduce thermal bridging. Additionally, these walls have pressure-equalized rain screen systems. These systems control and redirect water that penetrates the exterior. It minimizes water accumulation and potential damage.

• Fire Resistance

  Some unitized curtain walls are designed to provide fire resistance. They include non-combustible materials such as mineral wool. These materials help to limit the spread of fire. They also provide valuable time for occupants to evacuate. Additionally, some unitized walls incorporate fire-rated glazing.

Scenarios of unitized curtain wall

The application of a unitized curtain wall is diverse and extensive. It includes:

• High-Rise Building Construction

  Unitized curtain walls are foundational in constructing skyscrapers and high-rise structures. Their lightweight nature and remarkable structural stability allow for the construction of towering buildings with intricate designs. This facilitates the incorporation of glass facades, metal panels, and other architectural components, culminating in aesthetically pleasing and functionally efficient edifices.

• Commercial Structures

  The unitized curtain wall is extensively used in corporate building construction. This includes office spaces, hotels, malls, and other commercial amenities. Their rapid installation minimizes downtime, making them an optimal choice for commercial development projects. The adjustable features of the unitized system allow for the customization of the external appearance and performance attributes, aligning with the specific requirements of commercial establishments.

• Educational Institutions

  Unitized curtain walls are used in building learning centers, including schools, colleges, and universities. Their enhanced natural lighting creates conducive learning environments. The durability of the unitized system's components ensures the walls withstand frequent use and adverse weather conditions, maintaining structural integrity over time.

• Healthcare Facilities

  Healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics, utilize unitized curtain walls. This is due to their quick assembly and ability to provide natural light and ventilation in patient rooms and other areas. The unitized system's cleanable and resistant-to-damage surfaces are beneficial in healthcare settings where hygiene is a priority.

• Residential Towers

  Unitized curtain walls are integral to constructing high-rise residential buildings. Their enhanced energy efficiency reduces the operational costs of residential buildings. Additionally, the unitized system's customizable exteriors permits the design of visually pleasing residential structures that complement their surroundings.

• Specialized Facilities

  Unitized curtain walls are used in constructing specialized facilities, including museums, convention centers, and airports. The reason is their capability of spanning large openings without internal supports, creating open, flexible spaces. Additionally, the advanced glazing options available in the unitized system improve the visibility of exhibits and artworks in museums while providing natural light to the spaces.

How to choose unitized curtain wall

• Evaluate Project Requirements

  Assess the unique requirements of each project to determine the most suitable materials and design options for unitized curtain walls. Consider factors such as the building's location, climate, and aesthetic vision. Additionally, examine the structural needs, energy efficiency targets, and budget constraints. This thorough evaluation ensures that the selected unitized curtain wall system aligns seamlessly with the project's objectives, ultimately resulting in a more successful and satisfying construction outcome.

• Material Selection

  Choosing the right materials for a unitized curtain wall is crucial. Each material has its advantages. Aluminum is lightweight and doesn't rust, which makes it a popular choice. Glass gives buildings a modern and open feel, allowing natural light inside. Now, some special glass can even help control heat and glare from the sun. When picking materials, it's important to think about how long they will last, how much they cost, and what the building needs.

• Energy Efficiency

  Unitized curtain walls can be made more energy efficient by using materials and designs that cut down on heat loss or gain. Special insulated glass and tight seals between panels help keep heating and cooling costs down. Some curtain walls even have extra parts that help solar panels make electricity from the sun. Overall, there are many ways to make these walls that help the whole building use energy better.

• Fire Resistance

  Some unitized curtain walls have materials that can stop fires from spreading. These walls have special tests done on them to make sure they work as intended. It's important to think about how the walls will be put together and what materials will be used. Ensuring the walls meet the building's safety rules is very important for protecting everyone inside.

• Sound Insulation

  Sound insulation unitized curtain walls help block out noise from outside. Special insulated glass helps keep sounds from coming through the walls. The panels are also tightly sealed to prevent sound leaks. This is very important for buildings that need quiet interiors, like hotels and offices. Choosing the right materials and design can make units that improve the building's overall comfort.

Unitized curtain wall Q&A

Q: What is an aluminum curtain wall?

A: An unitized curtain wall structure is a non-load bearing exterior wall. Its frame is made of metal, commonly aluminum. It is attached to the building's floor slabs. The curtain wall has infill materials like glass, stone, or metal panels. It protects the building from the elements while allowing natural light inside.

Q: What are the two types of curtain walls?

A: There are two main types of curtain walls: stick-built and unitized. The stick-built system is constructed piece by piece on-site, while the unitized system is prefabricated as complete units in a factory. The unitized system is then installed quickly by lifting the panels into place.

Q: What is the purpose of a curtain wall?

A: The primary purpose of a curtain wall is to create an exterior building facade that is attractive and durable. It allows for more glass surface area. This provides natural lighting and enhances the architectural appearance of the building. Since the curtain wall is not load-bearing, it also protects the building from severe weather.

Q: Are curtain walls expensive?

A: The cost of unitized curtain walls varies depending on the materials used and the size of the project. While they can be more expensive than traditional walls due to the materials and installation methods, the long-term benefits, such as reduced maintenance costs and increased energy efficiency, can offset the initial investment.