What are the most significant factors driving curtain wall system costs?

The most significant factors driving the cost of a curtain wall system are the complexity of the design, the type of system specified (unitized vs. stick-built), the choice of materials, and the project's location. Firstly, the complexity of the architectural design plays a major role; facades with multiple angles, curves, or custom-shaped components require more intensive engineering, custom aluminum extrusion dies, and specialized fabrication, all of which increase costs. Secondly, the system type is a major differentiator. While unitized curtain walls have a higher upfront manufacturing cost due to the factory-intensive process, they can lead to overall project savings through faster on-site installation and reduced labor costs, a significant benefit for large-scale projects in burgeoning urban centers like NEOM or Riyadh. Conversely, stick-built systems may have lower material and fabrication costs but require more on-site labor and time. The choice of materials is another critical factor. The type and thickness of glass (e.g., laminated, triple-glazed, Low-E coated for solar control), the grade and finish of the aluminum profiles (e.g., standard powder coating vs. high-performance anodizing for coastal durability in Jeddah), and the material used for spandrel panels all heavily influence the final price. Finally, project logistics, including transportation to the site, local labor availability, and the required structural engineering to meet local wind and seismic codes, contribute significantly to the overall budget.