Like all building elements, curtain walls have limits and weak points in applications. The following deficiencies can cause failures prematurely in your building system as well as cause water intrusion into the building or other prevalent issues.
Gasket & Seal Degradation
Gaskets are strips of synthetic rubber or plastic compressed between the glazing and the frame, forming a watertight seal. Over time, the elastic material that makes up the gaskets and seals begins to degrade, like drying out, shrinking, and cracking due to constant sunlight (UV Radiation) and freeze-thaw cycles. Specifically speaking, that generally begins when air spaces are created in the gaskets due to shrinkage. Then, the dried gaskets admit air and moisture into the curtain wall leading to condensation, drafts, and eventually, water intrusion. As gaskets further disintegrate, they loosen and pull away from the curtain wall frames in applications. When the flexibility of the gaskets starts to fail, the glass loses stability and may shatter or blow out. Fortunately, with recent advancements in sealants, some curtain wall systems use a structural sealant, usually a high-strength silicone, to secure the glass to the frame. While an improvement of sealants like gaskets have a predetermined service life, watch for signs that it is time to replace perimeter sealants, such as:
•Shrinking or pulling away from the surface
•Gaps or holes
•Discoloration
•Brittleness
Incorrectly Installed Flashing And Trim Covers
Flashing details require an in-depth review to prevent leaks at the intersections between the curtain wall and other building elements. Without detailed construction drawings and specifics that fully describe and illustrate perimeter flashing conditions, along with coordination between the curtain wall erector and the General Contractor during installation, flashings may not be adequately tied in or terminated, permitting water to enter the curtain wall facade system. Plus, unforeseen structural interactions among building elements can potentially lead to failure if the curtain wall has not been properly engineered. Lack of provisions for differential movement, as well as incorrect deflection calculations, may be responsible for cracked or broken glass, seal failure, or water intrusion. Glass and framing must be evaluated not only independently, but as a system, with consideration given to the impact of building elements. Poorly installed trim covers and accessories can pose a danger to people and property below. Trim covers and accessories can be snapped into place or adhered using structural glazing tape alone without mechanical attachments.
We are committed to producing various types of steel products for your choice in your building project in future. Our products are all designed for the fast and easy installation of curtain walls. Contact us if you have any need in your project.
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Post time: Apr-11-2022
