Curtain Walls
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Vindow’s Curtain Wall System
Vindow’s Curtain Wall System meets the rigorous demands of Canada’s construction market, providing structural integrity and aesthetics for various applications. A curtain wall is a non-load bearing exterior wall that hangs off the structure like a curtain and is typically attached to the building’s floor slabs. It does not carry any dead load weight imposed by the building and only needs to support its own weight. The wall transfers wind loads onto the main building structure through connections to the building’s columns and floors.
Applications of Curtain Walls
High-Rise Buildings: SExpansive glass facades for natural light and views.
Residential Towers: Energy-efficient and aesthetically appealing designs.
Public Spaces: Large glass surfaces for a welcoming atmosphere.
Office Buildings: Combines thermal performance with aesthetic flexibility.
Mixed-Use Developments: Enhances architectural identity.
Benefits
Energy Efficiency: Equipped with high-performance thermal breaks and a low U-value of 0.81 W/m²K, this system significantly reduces heating and cooling costs, which is essential in Canada’s extreme climate.
Aesthetic Versatility: Expansive glass surfaces enhance natural light and provide unobstructed views, making it ideal for modern residential designs. Customizable finishes ensure compatibility with various architectural styles.
Structural Integrity: Engineered to endure high winds and extreme temperatures, the Curtain Wall system provides durability and safety, crucial for homes located in severe weather areas.
Rapid Installation: Available in both stick-built and unitized methods, the system allows for flexible and quick installation, effectively reducing labor costs and construction time.
Sustainable Building Practices: ncorporating features like photovoltaic panels aligns with green building initiatives, appealing to environmentally conscious homeowners. This compatibility supports Canada’s commitment to sustainability while allowing homeowners to lower their carbon footprint and embrace renewable energy solutions.
Increased Property Value: Homes with energy-efficient and aesthetically pleasing designs often command higher market values, making the Curtain Wall system a sound investment.
Key Features of the Curtain Wall System
Ideal for Large Commercial Facades: Supports glass units up to 55mm thick and withstands wind pressures of 2.0 kN/m².
Support Capacity: Accommodates spans of up to 3 meters, perfect for expansive, continuous glass surfaces.
Installation Requirements: Cnstalled externally, necessitating specialized techniques for precise alignment and load-bearing capacity, meeting rigorous testing standards.
Vindow ArchiFlex Curtain wall system (SCHÜCO FWS 50)
The Vindow ArchiFlex Curtainwall system (SCHÜCO FWS 50) is a thermally insulated façade solution that allows for bold, modern designs with flexible configurations for walls and skylights. It features a wide range of design options and pressure plates, optimized for quick installation perfect for multi-storey buildings needing both aesthetics and functionality
Glazing: Double or Triple glazing (4 mm to 62 mm)
Thermal Insulation (Uf): SI system: up to 0.70 W/m²K; HI system: up to 0.88
W/m²K (Passive House certified)
Sound Insulation: Max sound reduction index Rwp: 48 dB(A)
Max. Sash Weight: Supports glass loads up to 910 kg; max unit weight: 1080 kg
Wind Load Resistance: Up to 2.0/3.0 kN/m²
Air Permeability: Class AE
Watertightness: Class RE 1200
Burglar Resistance: RC 2/RC 3, bullet resistance up to FB 4
Impact Resistance: I5/E5
Drainage: 3 levels with rebate base ventilation
Sun Shading: Integrated sun shading attachment available
Surface Finishes: Powder-coated, anodized, and painted options
Sustainability: Recyclable materials, Passive House compliant (class phA)
Certification: CSA, NFRC, AAMA, and earthquake protection available
Additional Benefits
Design Flexibility: Supports various design typologies and allows for custom color and finish options, including RAL colors and anodizing.
Sustainable Features: Capable of incorporating modern materials like photovoltaic panels for energy generation.
Installation Methods
Stick Systems: Assembled on-site, suitable for complex designs, but may increase installation time.
Unitized Systems: Prefabricated off-site and installed in larger sections, enhancing efficiency.
Curtain Walls vs. Window Walls
Curtain Walls
Installation: A curtain wall is mounted on the outside of the building structure using brackets attached to the slabs. It doesn’t rest directly on the slab but is suspended by the mounting brackets, making it a continuous facade element that can span multiple floors.
Support: Curtain walls are supported by an aluminum frame or brackets secured to the structure. They act more like a “curtain” hanging in front of the building’s structure rather than being integrated between floors. This can offer a more seamless, unbroken exterior look and is common in taller buildings.
Window Walls
Installation: A window wall is installed between concrete slabs (floors) and typically rests directly on the slab. This means each floor’s window wall section is supported by the floor slab below.
Support: The window wall system relies on the floor slabs for support, with each floor segment installed independently from the others. This approach often allows for easier installation, as each panel can be set in place sequentially.
By addressing the challenges of Canada’s climate and enhancing both function and form, Vindow’s Curtain Wall system is a premier choice for residential and commercial construction.