Not often associated with residential projects, technical developments have extended the design scope of such systems.
Mention curtain walling to any specifier or contractor and it’s an odds on bet they won’t associate the term with residential projects. However, technical developments have gradually extended the design scope of such systems, first to multiple occupancy housing and subsequently to individual architect-designed homes.
So, what has prompted this? When you look at what curtain walling is this should come as no real surprise. Essentially, it is a façade with framing made of metal, PVCu or timber with vertical or horizontal elements. These are anchored to the supporting structure to provide the functions of an external wall without it being load bearing. This has positive benefits in terms of installation speed and cost.
In addition, though PVCu is still used extensively in house building it has clear drawbacks, particularly in terms of expansion and contraction. Aluminium, by contrast, is highly stable and therefore offers a far longer design life.
Importantly, aluminium has inherent strength and lightweight that PVCu does not. Developments in thermal technology affecting aluminium systems is also a commonly cited reason for their use. Those from manufacturers such as Kestrel Aluminium retain heat effectively providing maximum thermal efficiency using polyamide thermal breaks which interrupt thermal transfer through an architectural aluminium profile.
They also provide an exceptional standard of durability, a feature assisted greatly by modern powder coating techniques. Enhanced colour fastness and coating stability prevent any risk of peeling, flaking or fading, retaining an as-installed appearance for years to come.
Add to that the total recyclability of aluminium and it also scores highly in terms of sustainability. With its critical combination of aesthetics and high functionality, the material is surely set to secure a steadily increasing market share.
Learn more about Kestrel Aluminium Curtain Walling System here.
At Kestrel we stock a vast range of aluminium extrusions for the fabrication of windows, doors, and roofing. We can offer all the products you need including thermally broken windows, doors, commercial high traffic doors, bifold doors, curtain walling, roofing, glazing bars, louvre, and shopfront systems.
Download a copy of our Technical Specification Document here.