As an architect, I have always been captivated by the sheer beauty, durability, and raw functionality that curtain walls bring to modern-day construction. These non-structural cladding systems cover the exteriors of the buildings and allow natural light to seep through. Nowadays, aluminum has become the go-to material for constructing curtain walls. But the million-dollar question remains, why do manufacturers use aluminum for curtain walls? Let’s hope right in!
Why Do Manufacturers Use Aluminum for Curtain Walls?
The use of aluminum as a top choice for constructing curtain walls has simply skyrocketed seemingly out of nowhere in the last few years, with estimates predicting the aluminum curtain walls market is set to grow at an average CAGR of 8.3% between 2021-2028 globally.
Here are some of the major reasons why aluminum is a major player in curtain wall construction.
Strength and Durability
Aluminum is uncharacteristically strong and low in weight – perfect for constructing curtain walls. Manufacturers can get away with designing large glass facades without sacrificing on key strength.
Aluminum can also resist the different forces thrown at it by the environment, plus its remarkably resistant to corrosion. As a result, it increases the durability of the building structure.
Flexibility
Planning and designing building projects call for great flexibility for commercial glass manufacturers to design curtain walls that can satisfy the requirements of a diverse range of architectural styles.
Aluminum’s ability to extrude into complex shapes by applying such machines has always amazed me, as it results in some of the most intricate customizations and intricate detailing.
Minimized Power Consumption
You have probably heard that designing and constructing projects that make the most efficient use of energy is every architect and designer’s top priority. But did you know that if you installed aluminum curtain walls, you could reduce your power costs by a great deal? The reason is simple.
Since aluminum is highly reflective, it tends to reflect a huge portion of solar radiation into the atmosphere, thereby creating a cooling effect inside the building. Secondly, aluminum curtain walls allow thermal breaks to be installed between the inner and outer aluminum sections to reduce heat transfer through radiation.
Low Maintenance
Crews assigned to clean or inspect the exteriors of high-rise buildings can sometimes find it difficult to perform their tasks because such structures need more access to maintenance. Aluminum curtain walls, compared to similar metals, require less routine maintenance.
This is because aluminum can take a beating from the harshest of weather elements while still maintaining its structural integrity, reducing the frequency of inspections needed.
Sustainable
The construction industry is one of the biggest emitters of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere accounting for almost 39% of the entire globe’s production. For this reason, the construction industry is all buzz these days about going green.
All these changes are happening in the backdrop of revisions to the building code, redefining the boundaries for the bare minimum expected for construction nowadays.
Designers are increasingly turning to aluminum for their curtain walls as it is recyclable, and the recycling process uses less energy than its initial production, which reduces waste and carbon footprint. The durable nature of aluminum also increases its durability while minimizing the need for replacing it hence reducing environmental impact.
Conclusion
Aluminum has taken the top spot in constructing curtain walls due to its strength, durability, design flexibility, energy efficiency, low maintenance requirements, and sustainability. Guangdong JMA Aluminium Profile Factory (Group) Co., Ltd. has continued to produce world-beating aluminum curtain walls since 1993. Its curtain walls have been used in many projects spanning over 70 countries worldwide.
If you want to be part of the great experience of using aluminum curtain walls for your next building project, do not hesitate to contact us today to learn more about our world-leading aluminum products and services.