Unitized Curtain Wall Assemblies: Design, Performance, and Field Realities
Unitized curtain wall systems have become a dominant enclosure strategy, particularly for mid- to high-rise construction, due to their speed of installation, high-performance potential, and aesthetic flexibility. However, these systems also introduce unique challenges related to air and water control, thermal performance, differential movement, and long-term durability. In this webinar, we will provide a technical deep dive into unitized curtain wall assemblies from the perspective of a building enclosure consultant. The session will cover critical design considerations, manufacturing and testing protocols, installation sequencing, common failure modes, and best practices for commissioning and quality assurance. We will also share real-world case studies to highlight lessons learned through design reviews, laboratory mock-ups, and field performance testing.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
After attending this webinar, participants will be able to:
- Describe the fundamental components and principles of unitized curtain wall systems, including how they differ from stick-built systems.
- Identify key performance requirements related to air and water resistance, thermal bridging, structural movement, and acoustics.
- Explain the role of laboratory and field testing, mock-ups, and site inspections in verifying system performance and quality assurance.
- Recognize common design and installation pitfalls and understand strategies for mitigation during design and construction.
Participants will earn 1.0 AIA CES Learning Unit (LU/HSW) for attending the seminar. Registration is free. Please note that space is limited – email events@sgh.com to join our waitlist if the session is closed when you register.
About the Speaker
Scott Bondi has extensive experience in building enclosure design, specializing in building science and numerical analysis. Scott consults on both new construction and historic renovation projects, from conceptual design through construction administration, applying his specific expertise in curtain wall and custom glazing systems. In addition, he is experienced in providing forensic engineering services and expert witness support for both building enclosure and mechanical systems. Scott uses a variety of advanced tools, including computational fluid dynamics and finite element analysis, to support his design and investigative work. Scott is an adjunct professor at The Cooper Union, where he has lectured and developed courses in finite element techniques, computational fluid dynamics, and solid mechanics since 2007.
Leonidia Garbis specializes in designing and evaluating new and existing building enclosures. She has extensive experience designing and detailing custom curtain wall assemblies from design through construction administration. Her new design experience includes commercial projects, multifamily residential high-rises, and infrastructure projects. In addition, she has experience in enclosure forensic engineering, including investigating curtain wall and custom glazing systems. Leonidia’s background is in building science, including computer simulations of buildings and building components. She has experience with a variety of facade, roofing, and waterproofing systems. Leonidia actively participates in the Commercial Real Estate Women Network and the Association of Medical Facility Professionals. She co-leads SGH’s Glass and Glazing practice area.
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