If there is one thing that is guaranteed about the UK, it is its unpredictable and often inclement weather conditions. It can face floods, high temperatures, freezing conditions, snow, rainstorms, extreme winds, hail, fog and sleet in a year, and sometimes, a variety of these in a short space of time. 

Therefore, it is essential to protect buildings from these weather conditions, so they remain strong and sturdy, and do not put those either inside or outside at risk.

This is where curtain walling comes in, as it provides an exterior cover to a building to offers additional protection. It is a non-structural system that makes the building both air and water resistant, so it is able to withstand harsh weathers more effectively.

As it is not structural, it can be made from lightweight materials, such as aluminium frames. The curtain walling only carries its own weight, transferring loads on to the main building where the two are connected. 

Glass is commonly used between steel frames, as it is a cost-effective solution, and looks appealing from the outside. It also allows natural light to enter the building, which is beneficial to occupants who are indoors most of the day. 

In order for curtain walling to be effective, designers need to take thermal expansion and contraction, seismic movements, and building sway into account. 

Though curtain walling is most commonly used on commercial buildings over multiple floors, such as office blocks, they can also be used for residential dwellings like apartment high-rises.

There are many famous examples of curtain walling around the world, including London’s famous Gherkin building; JTI Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland; the Kaap Skil, Maritime and Beachcombers Museum in the Netherlands; and the Empire State Building in New York City.