In brief
A curtain wall is a building envelope that manages weather and wind while transferring its loads back to the main structure; it is not the building's load-bearing wall.
Primary role
A curtain wall does not carry the building structure, but it must resist self-weight, wind, rain, and thermal movement while transferring loads safely to the main frame.
Key components
Mullions, transoms, glass or panels, gaskets, sealants, anchors, and drainage details operate as one system.
Where to begin
Begin with building type, geometry, wind, energy goals, budget, construction sequencing, and maintenance strategy before selecting a system.
What the drawings must resolve
Before detailing, resolve stack joints, inter-storey movement, drainage, cleaning access, and installation sequence against the actual structure.
General guidance for product selection. Specifications and engineering details must be verified against each project's drawings and standards.
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