Senior Architectural Systems discusses how to add value and reduce costs when specifying aluminium curtain walling systems

The enduring trend for highly-glazed building facades has fuelled the development of aluminium curtain wall systems that provide architects with greater design flexibility than ever before. However, not all curtain walling systems are created equal. Leading aluminium fenestration systems manufacturer Senior Architectural Systems discusses how specifying a product based on both performance and the support package available from the supplier can help to cut costs and add value.

The advantages of aluminium
As one of the strongest and most sustainable building materials available, aluminium is the perfect choice for curtain walling systems. Fully and endlessly recyclable, aluminium also requires little maintenance and its durability can make a positive contribution to reducing the life-cycle costs of a building. The main appeal of aluminium curtain walling systems are undoubtedly their sleek and stylish appearance, as well as their exceptional design flexibility.

In the frame
The inherent strength of aluminium allows it to support much larger expanses of glazing within a narrow frame, resulting in slim sightlines and wider views.  Senior’s popular SF52 aluminium curtain walling has been developed with this aesthetic in mind, with the 52mm system providing a slim framing solution.

The narrow profile of aluminium curtain wall systems is key to achieving the perfect ratio of frame-to-glass that so many specifiers require. This helps to open up a facade and maximise the flow of natural light. However, the frame is still an important feature and the choice of powder-coating options available can further accentuate and protect the aluminium system. From colour-matching to align with a particular brand in the commercial sector, to adhering to planning requirements, or creating bespoke designs, the fact that aluminium curtain wall systems can be specified in a wide range of colours and protective finishes ensures almost unlimited design possibilities. With so many options to consider, working with a supplier such as Senior that has its own in-house powder-coating facility can help to streamline the supply chain, reducing the risk of going over schedule or over budget.

Taking the long view
As well as the aesthetic appeal of aluminium curtain walling, the strength of this type of system can provide practical benefits, particularly for projects such as commercial and retail schemes that incorporate large spans of glazing in the façade design. For example, Senior’s SF52 system benefits from exceptionally strong aluminium profiles and a range of box sizes, which can be reinforced if required for even greater strength. This enables maximum spans to be achieved without the need for additional supporting steel to be used. With the cost of steel continuing to rise, the removal of this extra cost – and extra risk – makes the SF52 aluminium curtain wall system the perfect choice for such projects.

Choice of configurations
Different capping options for curtain walling systems play an important role in creating the desired aesthetic and Senior’s SF52 system provides a wider range of configurations to choose from. As well as the popular fully-capped option, the system can be specified with vertical or horizontal caps or a combination of both. SF52’s silicon glazed option utilises a specifically designed toggle system to create stunning frameless facades. For sloped screens and roof atriums, there is the sloped glazing system. Further flexibility is available in terms of drainage solutions, with SF52 available as both mullion and zone drained system.

Navigating the extensive choices available can understandably be a challenge for specifiers, which is why Senior’s experienced team of architectural advisors are increasingly coming on board at the earliest stage of a project. Through such early engagement, architects can tap into the technical expertise of the supply chain to gain valuable assistance with the product selection process, as well as access to detailed technical calculations and CAD and BIM drawings.

Putting partnering first
Working ‘one on one’ with a curtain walling suppler can bring multiple benefits as early and close collaboration provides the perfect forum for innovative problem solving and value engineering solutions. It also gives the reassurance of having all warranties in one place. As the SF52 curtain walling system is fully compatible with Senior’s extensive range of aluminium windows and doors, further value can be added and risk reduced by choosing one sole supplier to deliver the full glazing package.

Contact Details
For more information about Senior, visit the website, email or call 01709 772600.