Architecture Notes

Curtainwall Installation

I recently had the opportunity to get a closer look at the installation of a unitized curtainwall.  It is a systematic process of assembling prefabricated parts on the construction site.  The following sketch shows the basic concept of curtainwalls.  The step by step photos that follow document the installation of a single panel.

The installation shown below is high-rise construction, requiring panel installation from the interior of the building.  In shorter buildings, the panels are often installed from the exterior.

Here the panels arrive within the building crated for transportation.

This is the top of a panel before installation.  The hook that will engage the anchor in the floor slab is shown clearly.

The Glazier hooks the hoisting device to hoisting points built into the panel.

The panel sits on a rolling cart glass side up to avoid damage.  The panel is then lifted out.  It will then need to be rotated 180 degrees outside the building.

On the floor above, Glaziers await the panel to be hoisted up.

On the lower floor, Glaziers guide the panel into the correct position.

The lower floor communicates to the upper that the panel is aligned and ready to be set onto the anchor.

The upper floor workers use a variety of tools to force the panel down and into place.  They use rubber mallets, pry bars, or in this case.. a size 11 leather boot.

With the panel hooked into the anchor and the stack joint interlocked, the panel is secured.

Here is the typical slab edge anchor with panels installed on the floor below.  This anchorage system allows for 3 directions of adjustment to accommodate construction tolerances.

After panels above are installed, firesafing is compressed between the concrete floor and the curtainwall to provide a fire-rated separation between floors.

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