Exploring the Dos and Don’ts of Curtainwall Transitions

Building designs are increasingly incorporating multiple facade enclosure systems to achieve desired aesthetics. Although the design of typical facade enclosure systems—such as a rainscreen system, brick masonry veneer wall, or curtainwall system—may individually be simple, the detailing at the transitions among these systems is a key component in designing a high-performing building facade. For example, a curtainwall system is a self-sufficient ecosystem that can be designed to meet the building enclosure’s performance requirements with long-term life expectancy. However, when a curtainwall system abuts other enclosure systems (rainscreen systems, roofing, plaza waterproofing, existing structures, etc.), coordination is required to maintain continuity of the four barriers (i.e., air, thermal, vapor, and water) and deliver a watertight enclosure that meets the same performance requirements and service life expectations.