What is the ideal curtain wall for coastal buildings?

Coastal environments in Muscat or Abu Dhabi expose curtain walls to salt spray and high humidity. The ideal system uses marine-grade 6061-T6 aluminum framing with anodized Class II or high-build PVDF coatings; both resist pitting and chalking. Stainless-steel anchors and fasteners (316L) prevent galvanic corrosion at joinery. Sealed, laminated IGUs with edge-seal desiccants keep moisture out, while silicone gaskets rated for immersion maintain integrity. Pressure-equalized rain-screen designs allow moisture drainage before it contacts the primary seal. Additionally, specifying flush-glazed sightlines with concealed drainage channels reduces exposed metal edges. Coordinate ceiling back-ventilated aluminum panels under entrance canopies to match façade resilience. Routine rinsing with fresh water every six months—common practice at Jeddah’s Red Sea developments—clears salt deposits, preserving both curtain walls and adjacent aluminum ceilings for decades.