Curtain Walls UK | Aluminium & Glass Curtain Walling Systems

Curtain walls are non-structural building facades made from aluminium framing and glass panels that enclose a building without carrying its structural load. They are widely used on commercial, retail, and office buildings to create bright, modern exteriors while improving insulation and weather protection. London City Group designs, manufactures, and installs curtain wall systems for clients across the UK.

What Is a Curtain Wall?

A curtain wall is an outer covering of a building in which the exterior walls are non-structural, typically made of a lightweight aluminium frame filled with glass, metal panels, or stone. Unlike load-bearing walls, curtain walls only need to resist wind, water, and their own weight, transferring these loads back to the building’s main structure.

This design allows for large expanses of glazing, giving buildings a sleek, contemporary appearance while maximising natural light indoors.

How Is a Curtain Wall Different from a Shopfront?

A shopfront is typically a ground-floor glazed frontage designed for a single retail unit, while a curtain wall usually spans multiple floors of a building’s facade. Both use similar aluminium and glass principles, but curtain walls are engineered to handle greater structural and environmental demands across taller elevations.

What Are the Main Types of Curtain Wall Systems?

The two most common types are stick systems and unitised systems, each suited to different project sizes and timelines.

Stick Curtain Wall Systems

Stick systems are assembled piece by piece on-site, with mullions and transoms installed first, followed by glazing infill. They are cost-effective for smaller or irregularly shaped projects but require more on-site labour and time.

Unitised Curtain Wall Systems

Unitised systems are pre-fabricated off-site as complete panels and then lifted into place on the building. This method speeds up installation, reduces site disruption, and offers tighter quality control, making it popular for larger commercial developments.

What Are the Benefits of Installing a Curtain Wall?

Curtain walls improve a building’s energy efficiency, natural light, weather resistance, and overall visual appeal. They are also lightweight compared to traditional masonry construction, reducing the load on the building’s core structure.

• Increased natural daylight throughout interior spaces
• Improved thermal insulation with modern glazing options
• Reduced structural load compared to brick or block facades
• Enhanced weatherproofing against wind and rain
• A modern, professional appearance that boosts kerb appeal

What Materials Are Used in Curtain Wall Construction?

Most curtain walls use aluminium framing combined with glass, though panel infills of metal or composite material are also common. Material choice affects thermal performance, durability, and overall appearance.

Aluminium Framing

Aluminium is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and easily extruded into slim profiles, making it the standard choice for curtain wall frames. It also allows for thermal breaks, which help reduce heat transfer between the outside and inside of a building.

Glazing Options

Double or triple glazed units are typically specified to improve insulation and reduce noise transmission. Solar control, toughened, or laminated glass can be added depending on the building’s location and safety requirements.

Where Are Curtain Walls Commonly Used?

Curtain walls are most often found on commercial office buildings, retail developments, schools, and multi-storey mixed-use buildings. They are chosen wherever a building needs a durable, glazed exterior that supports high levels of daylight.

• Office blocks and business parks
• Retail and shopping developments
• Educational and healthcare buildings
• Residential apartment blocks
• Reception areas and building entrances

How Much Does a Curtain Wall Cost?

Curtain wall costs vary depending on building height, system type, glazing specification, and site access. Because every project differs, it’s best to request a tailored quote based on your building’s drawings and requirements.

Factors that typically influence pricing include the choice between stick or unitised systems, the level of thermal performance required, and the complexity of the building’s shape.

How Are Curtain Walls Installed?

Installation begins with a site survey and structural assessment, followed by design, fabrication, and finally on-site fitting by trained installers. Careful sequencing is essential to maintain weatherproofing and structural integrity throughout the process.

What Does the Installation Process Involve?

• Initial site survey and structural consultation
• Design and engineering of the curtain wall system
• Off-site or on-site fabrication of frames and panels
• Professional installation with weatherproofing