In This Guide
What is Curtain Walling?
Curtain walling is a non-structural external wall system that hangs from the building's structural frame like a "curtain." It typically spans multiple storeys and is designed to resist wind loads, keep water out, and provide thermal insulation — but it doesn't carry any building loads beyond its own weight.
Curtain walls are made from aluminium frames with infill panels of glass, metal, stone or composite materials. They're engineered to accommodate building movement, thermal expansion and structural deflection.
What is a Shopfront System?
A shopfront is a ground-floor facade system that sits within a structural opening. It's designed primarily for retail and commercial premises at street level, incorporating entrance doors, display windows and signage. Shopfronts are typically single-storey and span between structural columns or walls.
Key Differences
| Feature | Curtain Walling | Shopfront |
|---|---|---|
| Height | Multi-storey | Single storey |
| Structural role | Non-load bearing facade | Infill within structural opening |
| Wind loading | Engineered for high wind loads | Standard wind resistance |
| Weather performance | Tested to BS EN 13830 | Standard weather sealing |
| Typical use | Office towers, mixed-use, institutional | Retail, restaurants, high street |
| Cost per m² | £300 – £800+ | £150 – £400 |
| Installation complexity | High (scaffolding, cranes) | Moderate (ground level) |
When to Use Each System
Choose Curtain Walling When:
- Your building is more than one storey
- You need floor-to-ceiling glazing spanning multiple levels
- The facade is exposed to high wind loads
- You need to meet stringent thermal performance targets
- The building design requires a seamless glass appearance
Choose a Shopfront When:
- You're fitting out a ground-floor retail or commercial unit
- The installation sits within an existing structural opening
- You need entrance doors, display windows and signage
- Budget is a key consideration
- Speed of installation matters
Cost Comparison
Curtain walling is significantly more expensive than shopfronts due to the engineering, testing, materials and installation complexity involved. A typical curtain wall installation costs £300-£800+ per square metre, compared to £150-£400 per square metre for a shopfront system.
However, curtain walling delivers superior thermal performance, weather resistance and architectural impact — making it the right choice for commercial developments where building performance and visual impact are priorities.
Need Expert Advice?
S&K Group installs both curtain walling and shopfront systems. Call us for free, impartial advice on which system is right for your project.
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