Window Materials & Assemblies: Window Assemblies & Frame Materials
Manufactured Window Units | Curtain Walls and Storefronts
Curtain Walls and Storefronts
A curtain wall is an external, nonbearing wall that is intended to separate the exterior and interior environments. Unlike manufactured windows or skylights placed into a wall or roof opening, curtain walls can compose the entire outer skin of the building. They consist of vision glazing as well as opaque spandrel panels. The spandrel panels may be glass as well, forming an exterior envelope made completely of glass and framing materials.
Similar to a glass curtain wall, a storefront is a system of doors and windows mulled together as a composite structure. Storefronts are typically designed for high use and strength. A storefront system is usually installed between floor and ceiling on the street level of a building.
Aluminum is used almost exclusively as the frame material in both curtain walls and storefronts. Some steel is used as well, but is often clad on the exterior with aluminum or stainless steel caps. For larger glazing areas, the structural strength and durability of aluminum and steel cannot be equalled by other materials.