Curtain Wall Facade Systems, Explained

A curtain wall is a lightweight external envelope that hangs from the building's structure rather than carrying it. Its job is to resist wind, control heat and water, accommodate movement — and give the building its face.

Mullions and transoms are installed piece by piece on site, then glazed. Stick systems are flexible and cost-effective for low and mid-rise buildings, and remain the most common approach in the region.

Here the glass bonds to its carrier frame with structural silicone, so the exterior shows no aluminum caps — just a flush glass surface. It is the look of most contemporary headquarters and government buildings in Riyadh.

Building height, facade budget, glass performance targets and program dates all steer the choice. The practical route: share the architectural drawings with a facade fabricator early — system selection made before tendering saves redesign later.