Combine form with function in today’s architecture, and nothing exemplifies that better in the modern world than unitised curtain walling. These flat and glass-dominant systems create the world’s sleekest buildings, serving very important functional requirements, such as fire safety, etc. Have you built an office complex or retrofitted a new commercial building? Knowing about curtain wall systems will help you make informed choices.
What is Unitised Curtain Walling?
Unitised curtain walling refers to a curtain walling system that relies on large prefabricated and glazed panels outside the building. These panels are moved to the construction site and installed into complete units. This scheme benefits faster erection and reduced site disruption.
The panels are made in a controlled environment, where there is general superior quality assurance than those systems that are constructed entirely on site. This gives an attraction of unitised curtain walls for high-rise buildings because, where accuracy and strength are very vital, speed taken up in substructure and buildings are of a minimum standard.
Reasons To Choose Unitised Curtain Walling
- Fast Install: As it simply would need at least one fastening pin, it would be true to say that the installation of panels is much faster and less time-consuming.
- Improved Quality Control: With factory conditions, more consistent and perfect quality is achieved.
- Increased Weatherproofing: Factory-sealed units reduce leakage and improve insulation.
Thus, a proper design and installation of unitised curtain walling would contribute to the aesthetic quality of the building and enhance its structural security and energy efficiency.
Stick System Curtain Walling: An Alternative Solution
In contrast to unitised systems, stick system curtain walling is installed on-site piece by piece. This technique entails building the frame and glazing it using glass panels afterwards. Although it takes longer to install, it is more adaptable when meeting on-site conditions.
Stick system curtain walling is generally utilized in low- to mid-rise developments or in cases where the design involves complicated details which cannot be easily pre-fabricated. It has flexibility but needs skilled workers for accurate assembly.
Balancing Functionality and Fire Safety
Fire safety is one of the crucial parameters to consider. Aluminium, being a common material used in curtain walling systems, has very good corrosion resistance, while it is non-combustible. But, it can lose strength at high temperatures, which may require employing good insulation and fire-resistant glazing.
To enhance fire safety, the present-day aluminium curtain walling usually contains various fire-rated components. These components are intended to contain the fire without letting it spread from one store to another. Also, because laminated and double-glazing glass is used, therefore, the structural integrity of the wall will also remain in case of fire.
Curtain Walling System: Aesthetic Value with Practical Benefits
A properly designed curtain walling system isn’t only aesthetically pleasing; it’s also better for the building as a whole. Aluminium curtain walls, for instance, provide very good weather resistance at a lower maintenance cost. With insulated glass panels, they improve energy efficiency by preserving indoor temperatures.
The lightness of aluminium curtain walling allows for less building load, and thus taller, more spacious buildings. And, the smooth, reflective finishes impart a high-tech, professional image to contemporary buildings that makes them memorable.
Choosing the Right System for Your Building
In making a choice between unitised curtain walling and stick system curtain walling, take into consideration the height of the building, the installation schedule, and budget limitations. Unitised systems are most ideal for tall buildings because of quicker installation and enhanced quality control, while stick systems work best for small-scale projects with more bespoke designs.
We are aluminium curtain walling installation specialists for companies throughout the UK. Whatever your requirement is for a unitised or stick system, our professional team will be able to assist you from design through to installation, so your building is safe, stylish, and long-lasting.
Final Thoughts
Buying a contemporary curtain walling system involves more than the aesthetics of your building. It’s all about striking a balance between functionality, safety, and appearance. From unitised curtain walling to stick system curtain walling, you can find a solution that meets your requirements and budget. When upgrading the facade of your building, be sure to hire professionals who have the depth of understanding when it comes to design, safety, and performance.
