Conceptual Reference Database for Building Envelope Research Prev
Next

Glass and Aluminum Curtain Wall Systems

Quirouette, R. L.
2001
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) article, June 15, 2001, QBS Project #01c01a.

Quirouette, R. L., (2001), "Glass and Aluminum Curtain Wall Systems", Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) article, June 15, 2001, QBS Project #01c01a.
Abstract:
The curtain wall is the most airtight and weather resistant cladding and exterior wall system available. This article provides an overview of the components of modern glass and aluminum curtain walls, their design features, performance and durability characteristics. It also provides the architect or designer with knowledge of the technology of curtain wall design with respect to air leakage control, rain penetration control, heat loss (or gain) control and condensation control. Consideration is given to testing of a new curtain wall system design. This article also provides sample design details of curtain wall connections at grade, soffits, head and sill conditions, parapets and at connections with other cladding and wall systems such as brick or precast exterior cladding and wall systems. This article does not review the structural design of aluminum curtain walls systems nor does it review storefronts, sloped glazing or skylights.

This publication in whole or part may be found online at: This link has not been checked.here.
Related Concepts

Author Information and Other Publications Notes
Quirouette, R. L.
  1. Basics of Noise Control
  2. Building envelope design using metal and glass curtain wall systems
  3. Design considerations for an air barrier system
  4. On-site exterior wall monitoring methods for air leakage, condensation and rain penetration control problems
  5. The rainscreen wall: a commissioning protocol  


CRDBER, at CBS, BCEE, ENCS, Concordia,