What Is A Glass Curtain Wall?

A glass curtain wall is a specific type of curtain wall that uses glass as its primary infill material. Supported by lightweight aluminum framing, the glass panels create a transparent or translucent building skin that floods interiors with natural light. Insulated glass units often include low-emissivity coatings, inert gas fills, or laminated interlayers to enhance thermal performance, acoustic insulation, and safety. Glass curtain walls can be stick-built or unitized, with framing concealed from the interior to achieve minimal sightlines. Proper drainage and sealing systems manage condensation and water infiltration, while thermal breaks in the aluminum profiles reduce heat transfer. The result is a sleek, modern façade that connects occupants visually to the external environment.