Polycarbonate Curtain Wall

Since the invention of the curtain walls, the curtain walls have long been the face of modern architecture, seamlessly merging aesthetics with functionality. Among the diverse materials available for constructing curtain walls, such as exposed frame glass curtain walls and structural glass curtain walls, polycarbonate has emerged as a popular choice.

Then, in this post, the author will give an introduction about the polycarbonate curtain wall and guide you to appreciate the importance of the polycarbonate curtain wall.

A polycarbonate curtain wall is a popular building facade system that incorporates polycarbonate panels as a key structural and aesthetic component. The polycarbonate curtain wall is the non-structural, outer covering of a building that does not carry the building's weight but instead serves as a barrier between the interior and exterior environment.
 

When compared with other curtain wall systems like the exposed frame glass curtain wall and structural glass curtain wall, the polycarbonate curtain wall stands out for its superior strength and ability to protect buildings from both vandalism and heavy impact.
 

Polycarbonate Curtain Wall

It depends on your use because both of them serve different uses with their different features.  Here's a comparison of polycarbonate and glass in various aspects:

Polycarbonate is highly impact-resistant and nearly unbreakable, so it could protect much better against burglaries and vandalism. Also, compared with the safety glass, the polycarbonate is 250 times more resistant to impact, so the polycarbonate curtain wall can prevent the risks that the glass curtain wall has. As for the glass, the glass is more fragile and can shatter upon impact, posing a safety hazard.

The polycarbonate curtain wall is much lighter than the glass panel, so it is easier to handle, transport, and install.

The polycarbonate curtain wall can withstand extreme temperatures. For example, the polycarbonate curtain wall can be exposed to temperatures around 270 degrees for several hours or sudden bursts of heat up to 1166 degrees without distortion. However, other systems like the exposed frame glass curtain wall and structural glass curtain wall cannot withstand high temperatures as effectively. They tend to absorb heat, and over time, the exposed frame glass curtain wall can easily break under prolonged high-temperature exposure.

As above mentioned, the full glass curtain wall absorbs the heat, and the glass has a weakness in the insulation. Compared with glass, polycarbonate can be engineered for thermal insulation, offering better energy efficiency compared to standard glass.

The polycarbonate may degrade and yellow when exposed to UV radiation over time, so UV-resistant coatings or treatments are often applied. Glass is naturally UV-resistant and does not yellow or degrade under UV exposure.

The polycarbonate curtain wall requires periodic cleaning and maintenance to maintain its appearance and transparency. It may also require UV-resistant coatings or treatments. Glass is easier to clean and does not require special UV treatments. It maintains its appearance over time.

The thickness of the polycarbonate curtain wall usually is determined by what type of project you plan to use. For example, the thick polycarbonate curtain wall usually be used on structures where frequent residential use is expected. In this section, the author will give a chart for your reference.

Based on the above chart, you can learn that the polycarbonate curtain wall with 25-35mm thickness is good for conservatories, extension, and commercial settings. The polycarbonate curtain wall of 4-6mm is ideally used in interior glazing, greenhouses, and other smaller garden buildings.

Polycarbonate walls offer several advantages in various applications due to their unique properties and characteristics. Some of the key advantages of using polycarbonate walls include:

Polycarbonate is known for its exceptional impact resistance, making it a suitable material for walls in areas where protection from impact is important. It is much stronger than traditional glass and less likely to shatter upon impact, making it a safer choice in many situations.

Polycarbonate walls can be highly transparent, allowing natural light to pass through. This makes them an ideal choice for applications where visibility and natural lighting are important, such as in greenhouses, retail displays, and architectural features.

Polycarbonate is a lightweight material compared to glass or other plastics, which makes it easier to handle, transport, and install. This can be particularly beneficial for construction and architectural projects.

Polycarbonate can be formulated to have excellent UV resistance, which helps prevent it from yellowing or becoming brittle over time when exposed to sunlight. This UV resistance makes it suitable for outdoor applications, such as in skylights and greenhouse walls.

Multi-wall polycarbonate sheets have insulating properties, which can help in maintaining a more stable indoor temperature. This can be advantageous in greenhouses and other climate-controlled environments.

Polycarbonate walls come in various forms, including sheets, panels, and profiles, and they can be easily cut and shaped to fit specific design requirements. They are also available in different colors and can be used in curved or flat designs.

Polycarbonate's thermal insulating properties can contribute to energy savings in heating and cooling systems by reducing heat transfer. This can be particularly important in buildings and structures aiming for energy efficiency.

Polycarbonate is a durable material that can withstand harsh weather conditions, including rain, snow, and hail. It is also resistant to chemicals, which makes it suitable for industrial and agricultural applications.

Polycarbonate is relatively low maintenance. It can be cleaned easily with mild soap and water, and it does not require special cleaning agents.

Multi-wall polycarbonate sheets can provide some degree of sound insulation, making them suitable for noise reduction in commercial or residential settings.

Polycarbonate is fire-resistant and can self-extinguish when the flame source is removed. This makes it a safer choice in applications where fire safety is a concern.

In ideal conditions, the polycarbonate curtain wall usually can last between 10 to 20 years.

Finally, in construction projects, the polycarbonate curtain wall is a good option that overcomes the drawbacks of the glass curtain wall.
When comparing the polycarbonate curtain wall to other systems like the exposed frame glass curtain wall and structural glass curtain wall, the former proves superior in terms of impact resistance, weight, and cost-effectiveness. It is a preferred choice in situations where these characteristics are essential. However, the decision should also consider the specific needs and priorities of the project, as the structural glass curtain wall and exposed frame glass curtain wall also have their unique advantages.