26 Sep Unitized Curtain Walls are the Latest Design Showstoppe
A Design Everyone Admires – Whether They Know It or Not
Most people have admired unitized curtain walls whether they were aware of the innovative design or not. Think about the last time you were in a major metropolitan downtown and walked among the giant, shimmering structures that dominate the landscape. Or enjoyed the view from a major thoroughfare, taking in the glimmering buildings that stood out from their boring counterparts. Architects are no longer limited to the traditional rectangular glass-shaped towers. The bendable, geometric, sloping designs available with these wall systems not only offer structural benefits, but can also deliver visually stunning outcomes.
What Are Unitized Curtain Walls?
These unitized curtains are non-structural lightweight aluminum-framed walls connected to the building, containing infills of glass, metal, and stones. Lite panels can range dramatically but are often floor-to-ceiling applications emphasizing daylighting, embracing views, and providing a stronger connection to the outdoors. Panels cut in various patterns give designers creative flexibility with geometric customization. This complicated-looking facade can easily be a showstopper on highly visible projects.
Protection and Performance in One System
The primary purpose of a curtain wall is to provide structural safety while protecting the building’s interior. The unitized wall can also protect against environmental factors such as earthquakes, rain, wind, extreme sun exposure, and dramatic temperature changes. With volatile weather patterns becoming the norm, more attention than ever is being paid to design solutions that can offset these hazards.
Mixing Materials for a Custom Finish
One recent trend with these systems is the integration of multiple infill materials that are glazed into unitized curtain panels. There are several choices of infill materials that allow for unique designs with various finishes, shapes, and textures. Materials such as stone, metal, and terracotta are gaining popularity and can add additional benefits:
Stone Infills
Stone infills such as marble, travertine, limestone, and others help create a weather barrier limiting the possibilities of leaks between the areas while supporting that seamless look.
Metal Panels
Metal panels have also been used frequently and include material compositions such as stainless steel, copper, zinc, and aluminum composite panels. These materials add to the overall texture and shape, contributing to the structure’s unique and ever-changing design.
Terracotta Infills
Terracotta infills are very lightweight and available in a variety of colors, patterns, sizes, and shapes.
Why Unitized Curtain Walls Are Here to Stay
Ease of construction, lightness, quality detailing, weather capabilities, thermal performance, environmental benefits, and a strong connection to the outdoors are all important reasons why unitized curtain walls are one of the most popular design applications currently being used.
Let’s Bring Your Vision to Life
For more information on this system and other groundbreaking design solutions, contact SunBelt Glass at 205-595-8112. For over 20 years, we’ve successfully completed projects ranging from healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and office buildings to top retailers and small businesses. We’re here to help turn your ideas into your next project.
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