A design alternative to conventional curtain wall systems window walls are an attractive option according to an article from building operating management on the facilitiesnet website.
Window wall system vs curtain wall.
Modern window wall systems can have the slab cover be part of the unitized panel as shown in figure 2.
Window walls optimize the cost savings component by offering savings in material labor to install and caulking for weathering when compared with curtain wall systems.
Curtain walls are sealed better at expansion joints.
This eliminates the need for time intensive construction of the mullion system and on site.
It can fill brightening and practical needs and glass outside veneers are a standout amongst the most prominent components in present day mid and tall building plan.
My reasons are as follows.
Installed independently of the window wall system or as an extension of the window wall frame hoffman 2001.
They are more efficient in a cold climate window wall has about 1 of insulation on the slab edge as opposed to about 3 with curtain wall.
Like unitized curtain wall window wall is also built in a shop and shipped to the site pre assembled.
Vs 1 s highly engineered simplicity delivers remarkable aesthetics for architects developers and building owners.
Traditionally window wall units are manufactured and glazed off site.
Units are anchored at the head and sill and sealed in place using caulking.
Vs 1 is a new type of curtain wall a mullion only system where the glass is held away from the mullion so the glass wall visually floats.
A curtain wall is a glazed wall system hung off a concrete slab using anchors.
I personally dislike the system and think curtain walls should be used here.
Curtain wall vs window wall in business development glass is a flexible structure component.
Window wall is also non load bearing.
Installation specifics and benefits.
Curtain walls are self supporting and give a building s exterior the look of top to bottom glass.
Curtain walls are easier to install.
Meeting market demands for aesthetics ventilation flexibility cost and speed window walls can offer unique design features.
A curtain wall is a glazed wall system hung off a concrete slab using anchors.
Unlike the unitized curtain wall which typically relies on rubber gaskets to provide air seals water resistive.
Window walls offer a cost effective alternative to curtain walls while achieving a similar look for the building s exterior.
Additional savings come through the elimination of fire stopping required to insulate gaps at the slab locations created by curtain wall application.