Stick system curtain wall installation

Stick system curtain wall installation

Curtain walls are an essential component of modern building designs. They provide a wide range of benefits, including insulation, thermal performance, and visual appeal. Stick system curtain walls are one of the most common types of curtain walls used in construction. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the stick system curtain wall installation process.

What is a Stick System Curtain Wall?

A stick system curtain wall is a type of curtain wall that is installed piece by piece. The installation process involves assembling the curtain wall on-site, piece by piece, as opposed to pre-fabricated curtain walls that are installed in larger sections. This method of installation provides greater flexibility in design and makes it possible to install curtain walls on complex structures.

The installation process for a stick system curtain wall involves attaching vertical and horizontal mullions to the building’s structural frame. The glass panels are then placed in between these mullions, and sealant is applied to ensure that the system is watertight.

Installation Process

The installation of a stick system curtain wall typically involves the following steps:

Preparation

Before starting the installation process, it is essential to prepare the site. This involves ensuring that the area where the curtain wall is to be installed is clear of any obstructions, debris, or other materials that could interfere with the installation process. The installation team must also ensure that they have access to all the tools and equipment they need to carry out the installation.

Installation of Mullions

The installation of the mullions is the first step in the installation process. The mullions are the vertical and horizontal framing members that form the skeleton of the curtain wall. The vertical mullions are typically installed first, followed by the horizontal mullions. The mullions are attached to the building’s structural frame using anchor bolts or other fastening methods.

Installation of Glass Panels

Once the mullions are in place, the glass panels are installed. The glass panels are typically pre-fabricated, but they may need to be cut on-site to fit the dimensions of the curtain wall. The glass panels are inserted into the mullions and secured using various attachment methods. Depending on the design of the curtain wall, the attachment methods may include pressure plates, caps, or silicone sealant.

Application of Sealant

The final step in the installation process is the application of sealant. The sealant is applied to the perimeter of each glass panel to ensure that the system is watertight. The sealant also serves as a cushion to absorb any movement or vibration that may occur in the curtain wall system.

Challenges and Solutions

The installation of stick system curtain walls presents several challenges that must be addressed to ensure a successful installation. Some of the challenges include:

Accurate Measurements

One of the most significant challenges in the installation of stick system curtain walls is ensuring accurate measurements. Any inaccuracies in the measurements can result in the curtain wall not fitting correctly, leading to gaps and leaks in the system. To address this challenge, it is essential to use the latest measuring tools and techniques to ensure that the measurements are as accurate as possible.

Weather Conditions

Weather conditions can have a significant impact on the installation of stick system curtain walls. High winds, rain, or snow can make it difficult to work at height and can also affect the installation of the curtain wall. To address this challenge, it is essential to monitor the weather conditions carefully and plan the installation process accordingly.

Safety

The installation of stick system curtain walls is a high-risk activity that requires careful planning and execution. Safety is a significant concern, and the installation team must take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of the workers and anyone else in the vicinity. To address this challenge, it is essential to provide workers with the necessary safety equipment, such as harnesses, helmets, and safety glasses. The installation team should also receive proper training on how to use this equipment and how to work safely at height.

Coordination with Other Trades

The installation of stick system curtain walls often requires coordination with other trades, such as electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians. To address this challenge, it is essential to have clear communication and coordination between all trades involved in the project. This can be achieved by holding regular meetings and ensuring that everyone involved has a clear understanding of the installation process.

Benefits of Stick System Curtain Walls

Stick system curtain walls provide several benefits, including:

Flexibility in Design

Stick system curtain walls offer greater flexibility in design than pre-fabricated curtain walls. This makes it possible to install curtain walls on complex structures, including buildings with irregular shapes or non-standard dimensions.

Customization

Stick system curtain walls can be customized to meet the specific requirements of each project. This includes the size, shape, and color of the mullions and glass panels. This level of customization makes it possible to create unique and visually striking designs.

Cost-Effective

Stick system curtain walls are typically more cost-effective than pre-fabricated curtain walls. This is because the installation process is simpler, and there are no transportation costs associated with pre-fabricated curtain walls.

Conclusion

The installation of stick system curtain walls is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution. It is essential to ensure accurate measurements, monitor weather conditions, prioritize safety, and coordinate with other trades. Stick system curtain walls offer several benefits, including flexibility in design, customization, and cost-effectiveness. With proper planning and execution, stick system curtain walls can provide a visually stunning and functional component of modern building designs.