Curtain wall replacement may be required where an existing system has significant defects affecting its performance, condition or long-term suitability.
Common issues include:
Replacement may involve selected areas or the complete curtain wall system, depending on the findings and project requirements.
Existing façade review – Reviewing available surveys, assessments, drawings and reports to establish the condition and construction of the existing curtain wall.
Façade investigation and opening-up – Undertaking targeted investigation where required to assess concealed fixings, interfaces, fire stopping, cavity barriers and connections to the surrounding façade.
Replacement strategy – Establishing the extent of replacement and the appropriate approach for the affected areas.
Design and specification – Developing the replacement system around the existing building, including framing, glazing, fixings, thermal performance, drainage, movement and fire performance.
Curtain wall removal – Carefully removing existing glazing, frames, panels, fixings and associated components using appropriate access and protection measures.
Substrate and interface preparation – Inspecting and preparing floor slab edges, structural interfaces and surrounding façade construction before installation.
New curtain wall installation – Installing new mullions, transoms, glazing, spandrel panels, seals, gaskets and associated components in accordance with the approved design and specification.
Fire stopping and cavity barriers – Installing or reinstating required fire protection at floor slabs, compartment lines and interfaces with adjoining façade systems.
Weathering and drainage – Completing seals, flashings, drainage paths and interfaces to provide appropriate weather resistance.
Completion and making good – Completing internal and external interfaces, making good affected areas and carrying out final inspections.
Curtain walling forms part of the building envelope, so replacement needs to consider how the system connects to the existing structure and surrounding façade.
Design considerations can include:
The replacement system may differ from the existing construction where required to achieve the performance specified for the building.
Curtain wall replacement can be delivered as a standalone service or as part of a wider façade remediation or refurbishment project.
Where required, our dedicated survey team, Trident Facades Surveys, can undertake condition surveys and targeted opening-up to establish the existing construction before replacement works are developed.
Investigation → Strategy → Design → Removal → Replacement → Completion
Experienced in working on occupied multi-storey buildings where curtain walling requires repair or replacement. Works can be phased by elevation, floor or section, with programmes planned around access, occupant safety, temporary protection, noise, weather and site logistics. We provide the technical scopes, specifications and cost information needed for Section 20 consultations.
Supporting landlords, managing agents and facilities teams with the repair or replacement of defective, degraded or outdated curtain walling across commercial and mixed-use buildings. We plan works around active tenants, public access and business continuity, with replacement systems selected for performance, durability, weather resistance and thermal efficiency.
Curtain wall replacement requires careful consideration of structural performance, fire safety, weatherproofing, thermal performance and interfaces with the surrounding façade. Replacement systems are installed to the agreed design and applicable building requirements, with appropriate fire-stopping and interface detailing where required. Completion documentation can include warranties, product information, photographic records and O&M documentation.