Curtain wall is used to describe aluminum framed systems that house materials like glass, granite, or marble. Glass is the most common material used in a curtain wall, and the most common material used for curtain walls that make up storefronts. These storefront windows must be structurally sound, protect against the elements, and be physically attractive and durable. There are many things business owners must know about installing these types of window systems on their storefronts.
In Glass Storefront Designs, framing systems used on storefronts are specified for curtain walls. Curtain walls are not able to bear much weight, are glazed, and are usually installed from the ground floor in between a slab and the above structure. Usually, field fabricated and glazed storefronts feature curtain wall systems that have been glazed on one side. Curtain walls that are glazed on both sides are actually different from storefront windows with only one glazed side. These two window systems handle the elements differently. In both types, the sill flashing must be installed properly to eliminate unwanted water damage, but double glazing insulates better, and maintains a consistent temperature.
Temperature control can help prevent breakage from extreme weather, and prevent things like frost build-up from happening. Storefronts can also be designed with stick window systems. These systems are transported in separate pieces that are field glazed, and use shear blocks to put framing elements together, or use screw spline to stack mullions. How well storefront windows perform will depend on how well the construction is done, including the seals, which are usually required to prevent rain penetration.
Glass Storefront Designs also often use unitized curtain wall systems. These systems don’t require much field labor, and are well sealed at the factory. Once they are glazed and have seals placed on them, they are transported to the job location and installed. These come in handy for thermal expansion and reduction, in the event of concrete penetration and seismic movement.
Window wall systems are composed of aluminum and sheet panels or glass sheets. They do not have to be installed according to any pattern. Hybrid systems accommodate different wall types like silicone or four side walls. For the project at hand, the final design should be made by taking all of the factors of the building and resulting store into consideration. Contractors can offer design advice, Experienced staff, pricing, and sequencing information to assist a store owner with their project.
