Nowadays, most modern buildings feature curtain walls. They are essentially panels placed on the exterior of the building through mechanical bonding, chemical bonding, or adhesive, to protect the building from outside elements. While these systems can be manufactured using a wide range of materials, such as glass, metal, or stone, the most common material in South Africa is a glass and aluminium curtain wall. (Information source: https://www.alsysco.co.za/curtain-wall/)
There are also several different aluminium fabricators that offer these types of systems. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that you select the best supplier when looking for a company that can install an aluminium curtain wall on your building. Some important factors you should consider include the experience of the company, the expertise of the actual fabricators, the time it will take to produce the aluminium system, the reputation of the company, the cost of the system in relation to your budget, and the quality of the aluminium curtain wall. By keeping these considerations top of mind, you are sure to find a highly reputable aluminium fabricator.
If you are still unsure on whether your building needs an aluminium curtain wall or not, you should consider the undeniable advantages associated with these systems. To save you the trouble on having to research it, some of the various benefits will be mentioned and discussed below.
1. They keep out the outside elements, such as air and water
The primary purpose of an aluminium curtain wall is to keep air and water out of the building, as well as to act as both a buffer and an insulator. If your building has an aluminium curtain wall, the building will not only be far easier to maintain, but it will also last longer due to the additional protection.
2. They reduce the sway of the building
While an aluminium curtain wall is not intended to provide structural stability, it can assist with reducing the sway of the building, which makes the structure far more secure. For buildings situated in geographical regions with strong winds, these systems are recommended.
3. They slow down the spread of fire between floors
Since aluminium is non-combustible, an aluminium curtain wall is able to act as a barrier and prevent fires from spreading across the surface of the building. Therefore, making it a necessity for tall buildings, where fires would otherwise spready upwards quickly.
4. They provide thermal efficiency
As mentioned previously, an aluminium curtain wall can act as an insulator when properly treated and glazed. These systems essentially stabilise the temperature within the building. Thereby, cutting down the energy costs.
5. They offer exquisite aesthetics
In terms of appearance and attractiveness, an aluminium curtain wall provides most modern buildings with a clean, sophisticated, and unique appearance. In many parts of South Africa, curtain walls are the only type of wall that can be seen against the city skylines.
As you can see, there are several advantages to having an aluminium curtain wall installed. Keep the above-mentioned considerations in mind when looking for a fabricator to ensure you are given a high-quality service.
