Is double glazing necessary in curtain wall systems?

In hot, sunny regions such as Abu Dhabi or Muscat, double glazing (insulated glass units or IGUs) is essential for curtain-wall systems. Single glazing cannot block sufficient infrared radiation, leading to high interior heat gain and heavy air-conditioning loads. IGUs with argon fill and low-E coatings reduce U-values to 1.1–1.4 W/m²K, cutting energy consumption by up to 40%. The sealed cavity also provides acoustic insulation—valuable in Dubai’s bustling urban centers. While double glazing adds weight, modern aluminum framing profiles are engineered with thermal breaks to handle loads without excessive depth. Coordination with aluminum ceiling-mounted diffusers ensures that cold air is not lost through single-panes, preserving indoor comfort and lowering operating costs.