What are the structural load considerations when installing a curtain wall system?

Structural load considerations for curtain wall systems include wind pressures, dead loads of glass and frames, live loads during maintenance, deflection limits and anchor design to accommodate differential movement between the façade and the primary structure—critical for tall buildings in Riyadh, Dubai or Doha. Wind loading is often the governing design criterion: façades are engineered using site-specific wind data and building height to determine mullion sizes, mullion spacing and anchorage requirements. Glass and panel dead loads inform mullion section selection and the support system; heavier spandrel panels or stone cladding require dedicated support brackets integrated into the building structure. Deflection limits for glazing (L/175 or more depending on glazing type) protect glass from edge stresses; controlling inter-story drift is essential to prevent seal failure and leakage. Anchors and brackets are designed to transfer façade loads to structural members while allowing movement through sliding connections—thermal expansion, seismic displacement or building sway must be accommodated without overstressing components. Load cases also consider blast or impact exposure where relevant, and serviceability checks ensure that deflection under wind does not produce perceptible movement for occupants. Coordination with structural engineers early in design ensures that curtain wall loads, attachment points and slab edge details are resolved to deliver a safe, durable façade solution suited to Middle East project conditions.