Curtain Walls

BES’s curtain wall systems, a hallmark of modern architecture, envelop a building’s facade with glass and aluminum, protecting the interior and maintaining comfort. Designed to bear their own weight, these systems transfer wind loads to the structure, ensuring safety and stability while withstanding air and water infiltration, particularly in Florida’s harsh weather conditions.

Building Envelope Solutions provides a range of adaptable curtain wall systems for various projects. With inside, outside, or structurally glazed options, our systems offer flexibility in installation and aesthetics. Select from different designs with varying mullion depths and site lines to suit different opening sizes and design pressures. Optional face covers expand design possibilities. BES offers comprehensive project support, from system selection to installation.

Areas of Expertise

We'll compare curtain wall and window wall systems, two integral components of modern building design. Understanding their differences is essential for professionals in architecture and construction. We'll explore their characteristics, installation methods, and applications to provide valuable insights for building envelope design.

Design and Installation

A window wall system spans a single floor and is supported by the slab below and above, installed within the slab edge. In contrast, a curtain wall system is self-supporting, spanning multiple stories and installed beyond the slab edge.

Types of Systems

Curtain wall systems come in stick-built or unitized forms, assembled either on-site or as prefabricated panels. Each system offers unique advantages in terms of installation efficiency, design flexibility, and cost-effectiveness.

Potential Issues:

Failures in curtain wall and window wall systems may include structural failures, water infiltration, glass breakage, fogging of insulated glazing units, and indoor condensation. These issues can stem from design, manufacturing, or installation defects. This is the reason to work with BES, because we have the experience.

Similarities and Functions

Our systems serve as primary barriers against air, vapor, and weather infiltration while offering cladding, insulation, and structural support. They share common components such as mullions, pressure plates, insulated glazing units, and anchors.

Components Overview:

Key components include mullions, pressure plates, insulated glazing units, spacers, gaskets, and thermal breaks. These elements contribute to structural integrity, weather resistance, and thermal performance.

Quality Assurance and Support

BES ensures the quality and performance of its systems through rigorous testing, adherence to industry standards, and comprehensive support services. From system selection to installation and maintenance, BES offers expertise and guidance to ensure successful project outcomes.

Curtain wall systems are architectural features that envelop a building’s exterior with glass and aluminum, providing protection from the elements while enhancing aesthetics. They contribute to energy efficiency, daylighting, and occupant comfort, making them a popular choice for modern construction projects.

BES offers a range of curtain wall system designs. These systems come with various installation options, such as inside, outside, or structurally glazed configurations, allowing for flexibility in design and construction.

BES prioritizes quality and performance in its curtain wall systems through rigorous testing, adherence to industry standards, and continuous innovation. Our systems undergo comprehensive testing to ensure they meet or exceed industry requirements for structural integrity, weather resistance, and energy efficiency.

BES offers comprehensive support throughout the lifecycle of a curtain wall project. From initial consultation and system selection to specification, installation, and maintenance, our team of experts provides guidance and assistance to ensure the success of every project. Additionally, we offer engineering services and tools to assist architects, designers, and contractors in specifying and installing the right curtain wall system for their needs.