Two of the main aluminium curtain walling options include stick and semi-unitised systems.

  • Stick systems are installed on-site, one piece at a time. First, frame components are put in place, and then the glazing is inserted. These are usually more cost-effective for smaller projects, or those with complicated shapes. Lead times also tend to be shorter.
  •  Semi-unitised systems also benefit from being built on site, leading to better quality control and quicker installation times. A full range of profile depths is available to suit structural requirements, while a high thermal performance ensures semi-unitised systems can copy in extreme weather conditions.

While these are two options to consider when specifying curtain walling, there are other things to think about. After all, curtain walling comes in a wide range of depth and colours, and this helps to ensure architects and specifiers can create buildings that suit specific design briefs, while also fulfilling requirements set out by the building regulations.

Once you have decided whether the project is more suited to a stick or semi-unitised system, other options to consider include:

  •  Thermal performance – Heat loss through a curtain wall occurs through the glazing, centre panel and framing. In addition, the framing itself will always to some extent constitute a thermal bridge. Therefore the overall thermal performance must always be assessed taking these details into account and a specific U-value calculation will be required.
  •  Glazing material – Glass is the most popular option for curtain wall glazing, and it can be either double- or triple-glazed. Glass may also be treated with Low-E coatings, reflective coatings and other treatments. In addition to glass, curtain walling can also contain other materials, which mainly provide aesthetic benefits. Just some of the options to consider include metal and fibre-reinforced plastic. Louvres and vents may also be installed in place of solid panels.
  •  Profile dimensions – The framing around the glazing can play a big part in the final appearance of the building, and it’s also an important consideration in the overall performance of the curtain walling. Choose from aluminium profiles in a range of depths, as well as a choice of cover caps in a variety of shapes and thicknesses.

Here at Soundcraft, we offer a wide range of aluminium stick and semi-unitised systems. To find out more about the options available, please download our datasheets on curtain walling.