The Advantages of Metal Curtain Walls

Durability

• Metal is a highly durable material, so walls crafted primarily of metal capable can stand the test of time. Particularly if the metal is galvanized or otherwise treated to prevent rust, metal curtain walls will require little maintained and will likely stand up to the battering of weather longer than many other exterior surfacing materials.

Ease of Installation

• Curtain wall systems are popular in part due to their ease of installation. To install a metal curtain wall on a building’s exterior, the builders simply lay down tracks, insert the metal panels, then seal the sides.

Load-Bearing Ability

• By design, curtain walls don't carry any of a building’s load. Instead, they simply surround the structure and support their own weight. Because these walls are not tasked with supporting the building, they're often more capable of standing up to a load created by environmental factors, such as heavy winds -- a major benefit when they're used in tall buildings. While not generally as aesthetically pleasing as a glass curtain system, metal curtain walls are even more capable of standing up to a weather-related load, making them a wise choice in areas in which bad weather is common.

Energy Efficiency

• Like metallic roofing, which reflects the sun’s rays and keeps the building interior cool, metal curtain walls provide a highly energy efficient option when used on the exterior. The reflective properties of metal ensures that any rays that hit the building bounce back instead of penetrating the structure, potentially saving the building owners money on cooling. Because of this energy efficiency benefit, metal curtain walls offer a smart choice in warm-weather areas where the sun’s rays are harsh and constant.

Style

• Curtain walls, particularly those of sleek and shiny metal, provide a modern and clean feel to a building's exterior or interior. Many individuals who select this wall system do so because they're fans of the contemporary look the metallic finish provides.