Curtain Wall
A non-structural exterior wall system, typically consisting of aluminum framing and glass panels, that is attached to the building structure.
Curtain walls are the most common glazing system for commercial high-rise buildings. Unlike storefront systems, curtain walls span multiple floors and are designed to handle wind loads, thermal movement, and water infiltration independently of the building structure.
There are two main types: stick-built (assembled on-site piece by piece) and unitized (factory-assembled panels installed as complete units). Unitized systems are faster to install but more expensive, making them the standard for buildings over 10 storeys.