There is no feature of a modern building that is more visible—and few that are more critical—than its curtain wall. If the curtain wall fails or does not perform properly, the integrity and value of the building can be substantially impaired.

The curtain wall appeared on the architectural scene in the early 20th century, when structures such as the famous Hallidie Building in San Francisco, a seven-story structure faced with glass and cast iron, began the shift away from the heavyweight masonry building styles popular in the 19th century. Since then, the curtain wall has become the ubiquitous external feature of many contemporary buildings.

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Originally published on Commercial Property Executive

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