EXTERNAL ENVELOPE


Adding clarity to curtain wall design


Andrew Cooper of Senior Architectural Systems takes a closer look ‘behind the curtain wall’ to reveal the key issues specifiers should consider when choosing aluminium fenestration solutions


luminium is robust, durable and fully recyclable – a perfect partner for modern-day projects where specifiers must find ways to reduce both the financial and environmental cost implications. The material’s inherent strength is another reason for the enduring popularity of aluminium curtain wall systems, as it allows large spans of glazing to be supported within much narrower frames, giving the slim sightlines that many building designers prefer.


A


The design flexibility that aluminium systems offer, particularly in terms of powder-coating – achieving an almost limitless spectrum of colours and finishes, is also a major selling point, but curtain walling must perform as well as it looks.


Monitoring movement


A key part of the specification process is to understand how the curtain wall system will respond to potential building movement.


Although curtain walling carries no deadload other than its own, or the possible attachment of sunshades or signage, wind load pressures can affect it. It’s also important to consider any further deflection caused by live or imposed loads that may occur throughout the operation cycles of the building, such as the movement of workers, equipment or furniture. This deflection, if not calculated correctly, has the potential to cause the sealed units to break.


Any potential movement must be calculated and accommodated, through the careful specification of different box depths or grid sizes, to ensure that the specified curtain wall system is suitable. Approved Document A provides guidance on the loading, support and fixing for curtain walling and other wall claddings, and early


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engagement with your chosen fenestration systems supplier can be key to achieving compliance.


Cap choices


Different capping options for curtain walling systems also help create the desired aesthetic, and there is a wide range of configurations to choose from. The use of caps conceals the exterior pressure plates that are used to secure the glass infill panels in place to achieve a more uniform facade. A fully capped system creates the traditional ‘grid’ design, but caps can also be used horizontally along the transoms to


A key part of the


specification process is to understand how the curtain wall system will respond to potential building movement


ADF APRIL/MAY 2020


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