Which Works Best in Harsh Climates? Comparation Curtainwalls vs. Other Façade Systems
In any architectural project, the choice of façade system is not merely an aesthetic decision: it is a strategic one that directly impacts energy efficiency, durability, and long-term operating costs.
In harsh climates, whether extreme heat, severe cold, high humidity, or strong winds. this choice becomes even more critical. A mistake in selection can lead to water infiltration, excessive HVAC costs, or even structural risks that affect the entire project.
This is why architects, contractors, and engineers face an important question: which façade system delivers the best performance under adverse conditions? In this article, we will compare curtainwalls with other traditional façade systems, analyzing their advantages, limitations, and practical applications for projects in challenging environments.
Harsh Climates and Challenges of Building
Designing and constructing buildings in harsh climates involves challenges that go far beyond aesthetics or space distribution. For architects, engineers, and contractors, the façade becomes the first line of defense against the environment.
Critical Factors to Consider
- Thermal resistance: In climates with severe heat or cold, poor insulation causes energy losses that increase HVAC costs and reduce operational efficiency. According to the report Thermal Performance of Building Envelope Details for Mid- and High-Rise Buildings by ASHRAE (Project 1365-RP), building envelope details show substantial differences in thermal resistance when thermal bridging and metal structural materials are considered.
- Solar control and daylighting: In regions with high solar radiation, excessive heat gain and glare can negatively affect indoor comfort. A recent study on solar-control smart glazing shows that certain smart glass types can reduce solar heat gain by 35% to 60%, depending on the configuration, directly lowering air-conditioning loads.
- Moisture and water infiltration: The presence of moisture and leaks can damage interiors, affect energy efficiency, and create health risks. An ASHRAE study on hygrothermal (moisture-heat transport) modeling demonstrates that façades with poor sealing in humid climates show higher risks of deterioration and efficiency loss in a very short time.
- Durability against strong winds: In areas exposed to storms, hurricanes, or constant winds, materials and installation must meet standards that ensure structural resistance. Current standards set minimum requirements for performance and wind loads; failure to meet them can result in structural damage or safety hazards.
The Impact of a Poor Choice
An inadequate façade system not only generates higher energy costs but can also lead to:
❌ Safety risks for occupants, such as glass breakage, structural failures, or water damage.
❌ Legal issues due to non-compliance, since many U.S. building codes require adherence to efficiency standards like ASHRAE 90.1 or equivalent local codes.
❌ Higher maintenance and repair costs, caused by materials that deteriorate faster under extreme conditions or lack of adequate solar protection.
👉 You may also be interested in reading: How to Increase Natural Lighting in Your Building: The Curtain Wall Solution
Curtainwall: Advantages in Harsh Climates
Curtainwall systems offer significant advantages over other façade types when it comes to demanding climate conditions. Their modular design, ability to integrate high-performance glazing, and structural flexibility make them a robust solution for architects, contractors, and engineers.
- Insulation and Energy Efficiency: Curtainwalls allow the incorporation of low-E glass, solar-control glazing, or double and triple glazing, which improve thermal resistance and reduce energy loss. This translates into lower air-conditioning or heating consumption, optimizing building operations in the long term.
- Resistance to Climate Conditions: Thanks to sealed joints and drainage systems, curtainwalls provide a high level of air and water tightness, reducing the risk of leaks even in humid or rainy climates. In addition, they are designed to withstand wind loads in high-rise projects, complying with international standards such as ASTM E330 for structural pressure.
- Design Flexibility: These systems allow façades with large glass surfaces and slim aluminum frames, maximizing the entry of natural light without compromising strength. For industry professionals, this means the ability to combine modern aesthetics with high technical performance.
- Durability and Maintenance: Made with high-quality aluminum and glass, curtainwalls offer a long service life and require less maintenance compared to traditional systems exposed to extreme conditions.
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Other Façade Systems: Limitations and Uses
While curtainwalls offer outstanding advantages in harsh climates, it is important to understand how they compare to other façade systems still widely used in projects of different scales.
Traditional Masonry or Concrete Walls
✅ Advantages: Cost-effective during initial construction, provide thermal mass, and are common in low-rise buildings.
❌ Limitations: Less design flexibility, reduced natural light entry, and poor thermal performance without additional insulation.
Metal and Prefabricated Panels
✅ Advantages: Fast installation and good mechanical resistance.
❌ Limitations: Without proper treatment, they can corrode in humid or saline climates, and they are less efficient at regulating indoor temperatures.
Structural Glazing
✅ Advantages: Provides a modern aesthetic with seamless, frameless glass façades, offering a sleek and minimalist appearance.
❌ Limitations: More complex and expensive to install; does not provide the same structural strength as a curtainwall in high-rise projects.
Ventilated Façades
✅ Advantages: Excellent energy performance and moisture control, with versatility in finishes such as ceramic, stone, or composite.
❌ Limitations: Require additional materials and specialized maintenance to ensure long-term performance.
In summary, while other systems may be suitable in specific contexts, curtainwalls remain the most reliable solution for projects that demand high technical performance and durability in challenging climates.
👉 You may also be interested in reading: Curtainwall: What It Is and Why It’s a Trend in Architecture
So, What Should I Choose for My Project?
Each façade system has its own range of applications depending on the project’s needs and environmental conditions. For architects, contractors, and engineers, understanding these scenarios is key when making strategic decisions.
When to Choose Curtainwall
- High-rise buildings in harsh climates: thanks to their resistance to wind loads and water tightness.
- Projects that require maximum natural light entry: corporate offices, hospitals, and universities.
- Constructions where energy efficiency is a priority: integration with solar-control, double, or triple glazing.
- Buildings that aim to project modernity and prestige: corporate towers and luxury hotels.
When Other Systems May Be More Suitable
- Masonry or concrete: for low-rise buildings with tight budgets.
- Metal/prefabricated panels: in industrial or logistics projects where installation speed and mechanical strength are more important than aesthetics.
- Structural glazing: for façades where a minimalist aesthetic without visible frames is desired, typically in medium-rise buildings.
- Ventilated façades: in residential or institutional projects in hot and humid climates, where energy efficiency and moisture control are top priorities.
The choice of façade system is a strategic decision in any architectural project, especially when dealing with harsh climates. As we have seen, each material and system has specific applications, but curtainwalls stand out as the most complete solution by combining energy efficiency, structural strength, durability, and modern design in high-rise buildings.
For architects, engineers, and contractors, opting for a curtain wall is not just an aesthetic choice: it ensures reliable long-term performance, reduced operating costs, and added value that increases the project’s competitiveness in the market.
👉 Contact us today and discover how PRL’s curtainwall systems can help you face the toughest challenges, complying with international standards and delivering solutions built to last.
