🧱 Curtain Wall vs. Cladding: What’s Right for Your Building?

When designing a building facade, one of the most important decisions you'll face is choosing between a curtain wall system and cladding. Both systems have unique qualities that affect performance, appearance, cost, and construction method.

At NFEStructural, we often help clients navigate this choice by looking at the specific goals of the project. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide what’s best for yours.

🪟 What Is a Curtain Wall?

A curtain wall is a non-load-bearing exterior system that hangs from the structural frame, typically made of aluminium and glass. It's common in commercial, high-rise, and modern civic buildings.

✅ Pros:

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• Sleek, modern aesthetic
• Maximum daylight penetration
• Can integrate double-glazed, thermally broken glass for performance
• Lightweight for tall buildings

❌ Cons:

• Typically more expensive than cladding
• Requires precise installation and structural coordination
• Can be less energy efficient if not properly detailed

🧱 What Is Cladding?

Cladding is a broader term that refers to panels fixed directly to the external wall structure or backing frame. Materials can include metal, stone, terracotta, fibre cement, or even timber.

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✅ Pros:

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• Wide variety of materials, textures, and finishes
• Generally more affordable
• Excellent thermal and fire performance with the right build-up
• Easier to install or replace in phases

❌ Cons:

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• Less transparent (limited glazing options)
• Requires detailing around windows, junctions, and interfaces
• Heavier materials may need stronger substructure

⚖️ Curtain Wall vs Cladding: Quick Comparison

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🏗️ How to Choose the Right System

Your ideal solution depends on:

🔹 Building height – Curtain walls are great for tall structures.
🔹 Budget – Cladding is typically more cost-effective.
🔹 Design intent – Do you want transparency and light, or texture and depth?
🔹 Performance targets – Both systems can perform well if engineered correctly.

👷 NFE’s Expert Tip

Hybrid solutions are often the answer. Many buildings use curtain walling on high-profile zones (like entrances or corners) and cladding elsewhere to balance cost and appearance.

We help architects and contractors design the most efficient facade envelope that fits the project’s vision and meets performance targets.

Want help choosing or detailing your next facade?

📩 Get in touch with our facade engineering team today. We’d love to explore what’s right for your building.

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